What is the best way to choose a major that you will keep?

Hi, Meredith,

That's is a great question and one that I wish I would have considered more seriously when I was in your shoes. I think the best way to choose a major is to backwards plan. Identify what careers you think you would be interested in. Try to find similarities between different fields that you're attracted to. See if you can find a major that provides you options to pursue some different careers. For example, if you think you might want to work at a think tank doing research but also think you might want to consult for a professional services firm, consider something like economics or math. Both of those majors provide tremendous technical skills that are extremely attractive to employers and also provide a wide range of career options.

If you're having trouble compiling a list of career interests or just want a more pragmatic way to think about the process, check out the career guide I linked below. I HIGHLY recommend you read the entire thing. I know it is long, but I can't overstate how beneficial I think it is. Read a section a day and you will finish in no time. The research is also very interesting and it's very well written.

I hope this helps. Good luck!