A Guide: Preparing For College

Choosing A Major

One of the many decisions you will have to make shortly after entering college is what to major in. Many people have a rough time making that decision. Here are a few hints to help you if you are having “Major Troubles”.

Tips:

• Consider which courses you've done well in previously and decide which major they have prepared you for.
  
  
• Investigate the quality of the professors in the various departments and your interest in the courses that specific programs offer.
  
  
• Take on internships to get a feel for the kinds of jobs you could get with different majors.
  
  
• Consider the requirements for any potential majors. Find out whether they can be completed in four years or if they require graduate studies, and consider whether you would be willing to spend the necessary time and money.
  
  
• Look at the different fields to which your major can be applied. Try to find a major that will offer flexibility when you are looking for a job.
  
  
• Think about the growth of the field that interests you. Is the field expanding? Are graduates with your major being hired right out of college, or do they need additional training?
  
  
• Contemplate the earning potential and base salary of jobs that are related to certain majors. Think of the lifestyle you would like to maintain and how certain salaries may affect it.
  
  
• Figure out what it is you love to do. Are there fields of study that spark your interest, or have you taken courses that you particularly enjoyed?
  
  
• Ask yourself whether you have what it takes to succeed in your major.
  
  
• Think about whether you would be happier having a job you love with little pay or having a job you dislike with substantial pay. Choose a career course accordingly.
  
  
• Decide what you really enjoy and what you could actually picture yourself doing. Ask your family and friends what they think you could do well, and consult someone with that major to find out what it takes.
  
  
• Try a double major or minor if you are having trouble narrowing down your fields of interest.