Get Smart about Your College Major!

For those high school seniors out there, it’s nearing that time for college applications. So what are you going to major in? It’s a common question that seniors hear a million times. Deciding on a major is really the first big decision you have to make in your academic career, and it’s not a walk in the park to pick one. Before you go on an impulse or draw a major out of a hat, let me help you. Here is some advice to make this decision a little easier.

1. Think about YOU – This choice is about you and you only. Think about what you love to do, and then pick a major that coincides. Want to make others feel better? Try nursing. Love to build things? Engineering is for you. Ask yourself this important question: In what profession do you see yourself in the future? Really put aside some time and think about this.

2. Do NOT Let Anyone Influence You – First, let’s get something straight. You are a bright, capable, and strong woman who is able to make decisions for herself. Do not feel compelled to major in a field if all your friends are doing it. Also, you may be hearing comments such as “You will never get a job with [enter degree here],” or “You will make a lot of money in [enter degree here].” Do not listen. A salary should not be the deciding factor. Take classes that you want to take! Taking classes that may have a high future pay rate, but are of no interest to you is a waste of time and a waste of money. If you are passionate about something, go ahead and do it, despite what others say. Never forget that you are your own person.

3. It is OKAY to Not Know – You don’t need to declare your future right here and now. In the drop-down menu of majors on every application, there is the “Undeclared” option. If you are uncertain of what you want to do in the future, consider remaining undeclared. This allows you to take a wide variety of courses in which you are interested. While taking an assortment of classes, the path to your profession will begin to unravel.

4. You are Allowed to Switch Majors – Once you declare a major and start taking classes, there is no rule that says you can’t switch. It’s extremely common for students to do this. Even I switched! College is all about finding yourself. If you’re not happy with a major, go and find the one that does make you happy. You are the one in control of your life.

For this important decision, I am telling you that it is okay to be selfish. Think about yourself, follow your heart, and you will find where you belong. Ultimately, it is said that if you do what you love, you never have to work a day in your life.