7 answers
isha
Student
Grand Prairie, Texas
1
Question
Updated
605 views
what could i major in?
I am currently in my first year as a nursing major, but i just don't know if its the right job for me. I was in culinary for my highschool and i really liked it, i always wanted to work for tasty, or bon appetit magazine as a food producer, but i just don't know if it was going to happen, so i decided to go for nursing cause i want to be a travel nurse, i like both, but i just don't know if i would see myself as a nurse in the future. I know that they're so far apart from each other, but i'm stuck, i don't know if i want to continue in nursing and end up hating it and have to start over or if i should switch now and continue with something else. #college
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7 answers
Wayne Archibald
Cybersecurity Associate Director here to share knowledge!
229
Answers
Annapolis Junction, Maryland
Updated
Wayne’s Answer
Hi Isha. Choosing a college major can be daunting, which is why students should be well researched before making a decision. Experts advise students to explore out-of-school experiences, consider required classes, look for scholarship opportunities within their chosen discipline, consider future earnings and more.
Ideally, students should also consider whether they enjoy a certain topic, given that it will likely shape everything from their future earnings and work experiences to the company that they keep.
Here are some pointers:
Don’t Stress. Your indecision does not have to stress you out. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed deciding on the place you’re going to learn and grow in for the next four years. It can be even more overwhelming when you don’t even know what you want to go to college for. You’re not alone. Up to 50% of students enter college undecided, and an even higher percentage may end up changing their major. Remember, you’re young and it’s okay to still be exploring. Approach this process with an open mind and an open heart, you’ll find the best results.
Ask The Right Questions. When students decide on a major, they often forget to take important factors into account. To find the perfect major, you have to be asking the right questions. Don’t just pick a school and a program because they’re trendy or because everyone else from your private Catholic high school in Holmdel, NJ are following the same path. This is a chance to explore your passions and aptitudes to find a career path fit for you.
What are your strengths and abilities? Every job requires different skills. Teachers need to be patient, actuaries need to like numbers, artists need to be creative, etc. So start by deciphering what you’re good at. You have talents and strengths that fit in well with certain college programs and career paths. Start with listing your abilities and researching areas where those skills would be beneficial.
What are your interests? If you’re trying to decide what to do for the rest of your life, you might as well find something interesting to do. If you like creating content for digital platforms or watching the numbers on Wall Street, then check out college degrees for graphic design or finance. Passion should decide what you want to do, not be an afterthought or added perk.
Where do they converge? Once you’ve determined your passions and skills, it’s time to find common ground between the two. Let’s look at an example. Say you’re passionate about science subjects and helping people, and you’re skilled in time management, communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail. According to CollegeCliffs [https://collegecliffs.com/], a degree in nursing may be perfect for you. This site gives you detailed descriptions of career paths for a wide range of majors. This allows you to find information on colleges and majors that fit your interests and skills. If you’re exploring the right path for you, use the best tools to do so.
Economic Factors. Some people base their decision about college education on economic factors. If your future earning potential is important to you, that should be taken into account when you choose a major. Top salaried positions are usually within architecture, STEM, medical, and business fields. While a certain level within any career can bring you a high income, these fields have the greatest chance to get you there quickly.
For me, I went for a balance between my passion and economic factors. I hope you find a major that works for you now and in the future.
Good luck!
Ideally, students should also consider whether they enjoy a certain topic, given that it will likely shape everything from their future earnings and work experiences to the company that they keep.
Here are some pointers:
Don’t Stress. Your indecision does not have to stress you out. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed deciding on the place you’re going to learn and grow in for the next four years. It can be even more overwhelming when you don’t even know what you want to go to college for. You’re not alone. Up to 50% of students enter college undecided, and an even higher percentage may end up changing their major. Remember, you’re young and it’s okay to still be exploring. Approach this process with an open mind and an open heart, you’ll find the best results.
Ask The Right Questions. When students decide on a major, they often forget to take important factors into account. To find the perfect major, you have to be asking the right questions. Don’t just pick a school and a program because they’re trendy or because everyone else from your private Catholic high school in Holmdel, NJ are following the same path. This is a chance to explore your passions and aptitudes to find a career path fit for you.
What are your strengths and abilities? Every job requires different skills. Teachers need to be patient, actuaries need to like numbers, artists need to be creative, etc. So start by deciphering what you’re good at. You have talents and strengths that fit in well with certain college programs and career paths. Start with listing your abilities and researching areas where those skills would be beneficial.
What are your interests? If you’re trying to decide what to do for the rest of your life, you might as well find something interesting to do. If you like creating content for digital platforms or watching the numbers on Wall Street, then check out college degrees for graphic design or finance. Passion should decide what you want to do, not be an afterthought or added perk.
Where do they converge? Once you’ve determined your passions and skills, it’s time to find common ground between the two. Let’s look at an example. Say you’re passionate about science subjects and helping people, and you’re skilled in time management, communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail. According to CollegeCliffs [https://collegecliffs.com/], a degree in nursing may be perfect for you. This site gives you detailed descriptions of career paths for a wide range of majors. This allows you to find information on colleges and majors that fit your interests and skills. If you’re exploring the right path for you, use the best tools to do so.
Economic Factors. Some people base their decision about college education on economic factors. If your future earning potential is important to you, that should be taken into account when you choose a major. Top salaried positions are usually within architecture, STEM, medical, and business fields. While a certain level within any career can bring you a high income, these fields have the greatest chance to get you there quickly.
For me, I went for a balance between my passion and economic factors. I hope you find a major that works for you now and in the future.
Good luck!
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF BEFORE CHANGING YOUR MAJOR
Isha changing your major is an important decision, and not one to be taken lightly. Maybe you've found your initial area of study isn't a good fit, or the career field associated with your major doesn't seem like the right choice anymore. Maybe this transition is influenced by your parents, who want you to choose a major that leads to a 'stable' or 'secure' career. While there's nothing wrong with seeking advice from family and friends, this is ultimately your college experience. Remember that you're the one who will reap the benefits of your degree program - trust your own inner guidance above all else.
WILL CHANGING MAJORS EFFECT MY FINANCIAL AID – This is a key question when making the decision to switch programs. Consult with your financial aid office to discuss how changing your major could potentially influence your award package. For example, if you received a scholarship specifically for your work as an nursing student, you may not receive all of those funds after declaring yourself an art major. You want to make sure you'll have enough money to cover any new tuition costs - some of your previous credits may not count towards your new major.
WILL MY NEW MAJOR PREPARE ME FOR MY FUTURE – It's important to make sure any program you choose helps you gain marketable skills. Research career trends associated with your field of choice. Are those career areas booming, or are job prospects diminishing? Plan for your long-term success and position yourself accordingly.
WILL SWITCHING MAJORS EFFECT GRADUATING ON TIME – Changing programs may lead to a later graduation date. This depends on a few variables, including the number of credits earned in your current program and any overlapping credit requirements with your new major. For example, a nursing major who changes to food producer will most likely need culinary or marketing courses that weren't part of the required nursing curriculum. Schedule an appointment with an academic advisor to help you perform an assessment.
WILL CHANGING MAJORS MEAN CHANGING SCHOOLS ALSO – If your current institution does not have the major that interests you, a transfer may be necessary. However, it's important to note that a new school may not accept all of your previous credits. In addition, there's usually extra time and money involved with transferring colleges. On the other hand, if your current school does offer the new major, is it 'known' for that program? For instance, as a broadcasting major, is your school recognized for its stellar School of Communications? If your school isn't well known for your new major and reputation is important to you, transferring might be worth the cost.
Like all goals Isha, it can be done, nothing can hinder the student who possesses determination and drive. Do what works for you!
Isha changing your major is an important decision, and not one to be taken lightly. Maybe you've found your initial area of study isn't a good fit, or the career field associated with your major doesn't seem like the right choice anymore. Maybe this transition is influenced by your parents, who want you to choose a major that leads to a 'stable' or 'secure' career. While there's nothing wrong with seeking advice from family and friends, this is ultimately your college experience. Remember that you're the one who will reap the benefits of your degree program - trust your own inner guidance above all else.
WILL CHANGING MAJORS EFFECT MY FINANCIAL AID – This is a key question when making the decision to switch programs. Consult with your financial aid office to discuss how changing your major could potentially influence your award package. For example, if you received a scholarship specifically for your work as an nursing student, you may not receive all of those funds after declaring yourself an art major. You want to make sure you'll have enough money to cover any new tuition costs - some of your previous credits may not count towards your new major.
WILL MY NEW MAJOR PREPARE ME FOR MY FUTURE – It's important to make sure any program you choose helps you gain marketable skills. Research career trends associated with your field of choice. Are those career areas booming, or are job prospects diminishing? Plan for your long-term success and position yourself accordingly.
WILL SWITCHING MAJORS EFFECT GRADUATING ON TIME – Changing programs may lead to a later graduation date. This depends on a few variables, including the number of credits earned in your current program and any overlapping credit requirements with your new major. For example, a nursing major who changes to food producer will most likely need culinary or marketing courses that weren't part of the required nursing curriculum. Schedule an appointment with an academic advisor to help you perform an assessment.
WILL CHANGING MAJORS MEAN CHANGING SCHOOLS ALSO – If your current institution does not have the major that interests you, a transfer may be necessary. However, it's important to note that a new school may not accept all of your previous credits. In addition, there's usually extra time and money involved with transferring colleges. On the other hand, if your current school does offer the new major, is it 'known' for that program? For instance, as a broadcasting major, is your school recognized for its stellar School of Communications? If your school isn't well known for your new major and reputation is important to you, transferring might be worth the cost.
Like all goals Isha, it can be done, nothing can hinder the student who possesses determination and drive. Do what works for you!
Thank You Kelvin. “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” — William Shakespeare
Yasemin G.
Aspiring physician
635
Answers
Updated
Yasemin’s Answer
Hi Isha! I think the answer provided above is great! I also think that this is difficult because college is definitely a time to truly see what you are interested in. I think definitely see the classes you are going to take, how do you feel about them and how are you doing in them; in addition I think that getting experience with patients may definitely help in fortifying your choice of being a nursing major. Choosing medicine definitely takes a lot of thought and perspective as well as time, but if you really do love it then definitely do not let obstacles or doubts and worries deter you from it. I struggled as well when I chose to take the path of being a physician, especially with the obstacles I faced but I also realized how much I love the field, especially after volunteering and maturing more and more with each obstacle. Sometimes you can combine passions too, if you have a passion for cuisine you can definitely keep at it as a hobby; I love to teach as well and even wanted to be a teacher so I tutored in college and plan to even as a physician in the future. As a last note, if in the future you do change your choices that is completely okay, do what you love and feel comfortable with!
I wish you the best!
I wish you the best!
Andrew Udeshi
Social Impact Fellow
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
Hi Isha!
There are some great answers to your question about selecting a major. One thing to note is that your major will not define who you are or your career path. Many of my colleagues are in professions that are completely different to what they studied in university. Here are some tips I have:
- Think about what you are passionate about - Having a job that you are passionate about makes it much more enjoyable
- Think about what your strengths are - Do a self evaluation or ask people who know you well about what your strengths are, and translate that into a career path and major
- Schedule informational interviews with people in careers that you like - An informational interview is a short conversation where you ask questions about their career to learn more (Muse has a great resource on it - https://www.themuse.com/advice/informational-interview-best-questions-to-ask)
- Explore around and take different courses to widen your perspective - See what courses your university has to offer and you might find something that you're interested in
I wish you all the best in your major selection and career path, I know you will do great things!
- Andrew
Research people in careers that you admire and reach out to them for an informational interview
Research courses that interest you and sign up for them
There are some great answers to your question about selecting a major. One thing to note is that your major will not define who you are or your career path. Many of my colleagues are in professions that are completely different to what they studied in university. Here are some tips I have:
- Think about what you are passionate about - Having a job that you are passionate about makes it much more enjoyable
- Think about what your strengths are - Do a self evaluation or ask people who know you well about what your strengths are, and translate that into a career path and major
- Schedule informational interviews with people in careers that you like - An informational interview is a short conversation where you ask questions about their career to learn more (Muse has a great resource on it - https://www.themuse.com/advice/informational-interview-best-questions-to-ask)
- Explore around and take different courses to widen your perspective - See what courses your university has to offer and you might find something that you're interested in
I wish you all the best in your major selection and career path, I know you will do great things!
- Andrew
Andrew recommends the following next steps:
Sunny H
Accountant
48
Answers
United States
Updated
Sunny’s Answer
Hi Isha,
I would suggest to observe where your stronger passion is. They are both great careers and will have opportunities to travel. However I think there will be some hardships when you are trying to achieve your goal in each industry. Even considering all those hardships and cons, is there any career that you still want to be in?
I guess you chose nursing as your major for good reasons, but if you are already thinking to go back to culinary arts in your first year at college, maybe that could be your stronger passion.
Also, career change is a big transition but trying either one and switching to another later would not be a bad idea either. I wish you all the best in choosing your career!
I would suggest to observe where your stronger passion is. They are both great careers and will have opportunities to travel. However I think there will be some hardships when you are trying to achieve your goal in each industry. Even considering all those hardships and cons, is there any career that you still want to be in?
I guess you chose nursing as your major for good reasons, but if you are already thinking to go back to culinary arts in your first year at college, maybe that could be your stronger passion.
Also, career change is a big transition but trying either one and switching to another later would not be a bad idea either. I wish you all the best in choosing your career!
Gloria Ortiz
Instructional Designer
850
Answers
Irving, Texas
Updated
Gloria’s Answer
Hi Isha,
I would say that going with something that you are interested is the best way to get through college. Culinary arts can be a great way to travel the world. As a person who changed majors five times, I want to tell you that it is not going to be the end of the world to change your mind. It might be expensive, but not the end of the world.
I would challenge you to investigate a bit around each career. Is there someone you can talk to or job shadow about each role? Is cooking something that you actively do in your daily life? Would you want to specialize like a baker or be a caterer? (Most cooks that I know cook a lot at home. It is not just a job for them, but a passion.) What kind of nurse is a traveling nurse? What does that work entail? Would you want to do it for days, months, years on end? I don't actually know any travel nurses. My good friend was a labor and delivery nurse for over 25 years before getting her masters degree and now teaches nurses in a variety of disciplines. And she is the person that everyone in the family calls for any little illness. These are two jobs where a lot of friends and family are going to depend on you.
Good luck on your career choice. Both of them sound exciting and rewarding.
Gloria
I would say that going with something that you are interested is the best way to get through college. Culinary arts can be a great way to travel the world. As a person who changed majors five times, I want to tell you that it is not going to be the end of the world to change your mind. It might be expensive, but not the end of the world.
I would challenge you to investigate a bit around each career. Is there someone you can talk to or job shadow about each role? Is cooking something that you actively do in your daily life? Would you want to specialize like a baker or be a caterer? (Most cooks that I know cook a lot at home. It is not just a job for them, but a passion.) What kind of nurse is a traveling nurse? What does that work entail? Would you want to do it for days, months, years on end? I don't actually know any travel nurses. My good friend was a labor and delivery nurse for over 25 years before getting her masters degree and now teaches nurses in a variety of disciplines. And she is the person that everyone in the family calls for any little illness. These are two jobs where a lot of friends and family are going to depend on you.
Good luck on your career choice. Both of them sound exciting and rewarding.
Gloria
Estelle Archer
Gynecologist
1321
Answers
United States
Updated
Estelle’s Answer
Go and spend some time shadowing in the medical field. If you work with nurses every day for a week and hate it, you will have your answer and probably save yourself quite a bit of tuition money.