Your choice of a major
is an important decision. It has both long and short term consequences
that should be examined carefully in the decision making progress. Not
only will your major play a role in your ultimate career path, it also
most immediately determines how you interact with your college or
university as well as your intellectual development. There are so many
choices of majors precisely because no one major or group of majors is the
right one for every student. Our guide and suggestions should be
considered along with your individual requisites as you make your
decision.
§
Identify your aptitudes and interests. Success in a
major depends on your aptitudes, interests and ability. As you look
through the possibilities take the time to check out the requirements
demanded by possible majors and honestly assess your ability and
inclination to complete them.
-
Factor in the job
market.
Many departments have prepared lists of careers applicable to graduates
of their discipline. Your advisor can also direct you to this
information. Try to picture yourself in these careers and assess if they
are suitable. Don’t be completely guided by today’s job market. Our fast
changing world may make your choice less desirable in 3 or 4 years. Choose
a major and career that suits and, in fact, reflects you as a person.
-
Be creative and
flexible.
Use your electives to add classes like
statistics, computer science, accounting, economics, advanced
composition, management, speech or other technical and applied courses
to meet requirements for the major. Knowledge and skills in these areas
may make you a more marketable job hunter later on.
§
Factor in grades.
The grades you achieve are used as an index of your suitability.
Employers and admissions offices use grades as
an indication of what you have learned, your dedication, enthusiasm, and
self-discipline. Choosing a program of study interesting t o you usually
means that you will be more dedicated, have more enthusiasm, be more
likely to discipline yourself, and, as a result, earn higher grades.
§
Be aware of advanced training requirements. Some
professions require certifications or advance degrees. Make sure you know
what is needed other than a major to follow your career path and make
plans for fulfilling these requirements.
§
Change your mind. It may not be easy and it might
cost you some time but the fact is it is far easier to change majors now
than to interrupt your life in five years to return to school for a degree
in another discipline. Don’t be embarrassed to tell your advisor that your
priorities or interests have changed. Intellectual life presents an
impressive array of options.
§
Let your career goal drive your choice. Many graduate
and professional schools expect you to take particular courses. Many
recruiters looking for people with certain skills expect to find courses
on the applicant’s transcript that reflect these skills.
§
Get practical experience. Classes are not the only
barometer. Jobs, volunteer activities and extracurricular activities all
come together in validating your choice of a major.
