Choosing a Major

“What do you want to be when you grow up?” As a child, this answer was simple: a fireman, an astronaut, a princess! The possibilities seemed endless. However, as students reach college and reality kicks in, this simple question becomes inconceivable.

For those incoming freshman who have already chosen a major; consider yourself lucky. For a majority of students, the largest obstacle he or she will encounter in his or her college career is picking a major. However, choosing a major does not have to be as daunting a decision as it may seem. The most vital step to making this decision is figuring out what captivates you. When learning about something you truly enjoy, going to class, studying and completing assignments becomes less of a chore and transforms into something truly enjoyable. If you come to the realization that your major is not for you, don’t fear, because nothing is set in stone. Fortunately, no one is ever ‘stuck’ with a job that they absolutely hate. In today’s world it is more common for a person to change careers multiple times than to hold the same job right out of college. Similarly, a majority of students do not have the same major senior year as the major they declared as an incoming freshman.

There are a few steps that students should take to make an educated decision when deciding on a major. First off, a student must know himself or herself, and take their values, skills, and interests into consideration. Finding a major that enthuses and fascinates you will make college courses entertaining and enjoyable. The most successful people in life truly enjoy their jobs; this same motto applies to students who truly enjoy their major.

It is also important for students to explore their options. A course catalog is an ideal resource that students should utilize when deciding on a major. Course catalogs provide an organized and detailed list of all courses available at a college or university. Researching the classes that a major requires will give you a better feel for the classes that you will be taking, and whether or not these courses appeal to you. Setting up a meeting with your advisor is also beneficial. Behind every successful person there are multiple important and influential people, and your advisor can be such a person for you. Peer advisors are another valuable resource. Peer advisors help students ease into the expectations of Ithaca College and can provide insight on majors and courses. Students should also take the time to utilize Career Services. Career Services assists students from freshman year all the way through graduation in making vital decisions such as declaring a major.

Ithaca College provides students with a program that many colleges do not: the exploratory program. A majority of colleges label students as undeclared. Having a structured program such as the exploratory program enables students to analyze all different career paths, and helps them pick the right major—a major that helps students find themselves, and hopefully the career path of their choice.

College is an investment of time and money; make this time in your life worthy by choosing a major that will be both interesting and profitable to you. Determine what excites you and be sure to explore all of your options before making a final decision.

Photo courtesy of Haley Thorpe