Hi guys! I was thinking about majoring in Communications and minoring in graphic design. I wanted to take classes that I was interested in so I could succeed... but I am not sure if those two are a good combo for a strong foundation in finding a job. What do you think? Tips? Am I overthinking?

I would list out "why" you want to major in communications and "why" you want to minor in graphic design. I'd especially focus on your Communications list. Go through what you like about each of them and the opportunities you think they will present.

I'd also look beyond college and think about what areas you might be interested in -- marketing, graphic design, product design, PR, etc. Any idea of what you might want to do for a job? If not, totally okay! Always good to think about it though.

If I could go back, I definitely would've tried to take some computer science classes as well. If you did communications and graphic design while also mixing in some computer science, you'd be a great candidate in the technology space!

Hi Taryn!

College is an awesome opportunity for you to explore what you like, but more importantly, what you DON'T like. I went in thinking I wanted to do marketing, and I left knowing that wasn't my career path. I think a communications degree will give you an opportunity to become an excellent communicator and public speaker, which are very important, relevant skills at any level of an organization/company. Don't feel like you need to know exactly what you want to do as a career--a ton of us are still figuring that out, post-college! I suggest finding an on-campus mentor (a professor that you vibe well with, for example) who can provide guidance and give you real-world advice.

Those are a great combo for jobs related to the marketing industry: branding, advertising, etc. If this is a path you're interested in I think you are on the right track. In terms of getting a job with the best pay I would suggest MORE.

You can definitely keep the minor in graphic design, but I recommend you double major in Marketing and Communications. These majors are not too difficult so it is not that tough to accomplish, but it will be tedious.

It will require a lot of work, but you will be set up for a MUCH larger range of jobs that you could go after with both a marketing and communications degree.

Don't be afraid of the double major, it will pay off in the end.

Hey Taryn,

Great question! I always think it's important to focus on the things that interest you first and foremost. I studied history of art and languages, because I wanted to learn in an environment of positive stimuli and bring my best self to my education. When you enjoy something, it is a lot easier to throw your full self into it, and in that context, you get closer to a real sense of achievement. So much of the education in college is holistic -- it's about your perspective, behaviour, self-confidence as much as it is about your skillset and wisdom. We all seek to do what we love, and college is the first time we get to really choose! I would say go with your gut, and Communications and Graphic Design are a great combination!

Those two are a strong combo in finding specific jobs in advertising, branding, content, and design roles. These are just some direct ones to list. You're also going to be taking many other classes that will build up your skill set and lead you in completely different directions. It's great that you're looking into fields that you're interested in to start. You may end up in very unexpected roles when you get into the workforce. To emphasize, the two combination will not be wasted.

I majored in Psychology and minored in digital arts. Then, went into advertising. Worked in advertising as an art director, then went into product design. What I'm trying to illustrate is that you'll have transferable skills that will take you from one type of role or industry to another. And, you'll pick up more and more along the way to add to your base.