Is it beneficial to show evidence of branching out in my career and expanding upon my future career options by minoring in a field different from my major?

My initial reaction is that if it enhances what you want to do, do it. If you like the minor, do it. If it will detract from your primary interest, don't. After you graduate, your unique skills and story will take you further than specific words on a resume.

There are benefits to having a minor. Above all I think it gives you insight into other fields and opportunities. For example my major in college was Computer Science, and also minor in Management. With my minor I was able to take classes in fiancé and project management (PM) and this awoke a desired to specialized on this new field. Because a general understand of PM and desired to learn more about management, when I entered the work force I looked for opportunities that would help me develop these skills even further. I worked hard and I right now I am a successful Project and Resource Manager.

Overall, my advice is if you are interested in pursuing a minor, choose something that sparks an interest in your core. It doesn't even have to related to you major, just try to learn a new skills and acquire knowledge and see where that leads you. With hard work and dedication the end goal will always be good.

Hi Kimia: As a career counselor, I tend to recommend minors only if they compliment the major. For instance, a major of Business would be well suited for a minor in Finance since business can be broad and non-specific at some colleges and if finance is truly related to your professional pursuits. Since minors are just six or so additional classes, you may be able to take them while taking major courses so that no extra time is added to graduate. I truly hope this helps! Best of luck.

Kimia:

As an Engineer who has interviewed numerous people for job openings during my career, here is my advice. During these interviews of far more importance than any Minor an applicant may have take, I was always more interested in career-related activities that the applicant participated while in college. These could include:
Internship
Volunteer in an engineering-related activity such as Engineers without Borders
Active participation in a student engineering society
Senior Capstone Project

Any of these activities can help distinguish you from the myriad of other job applicants and these topics often lead to a fruitful discussion with the Interviewer, giving you a natural opportunity to shine.

Remember, ALL student take classes needed for graduation requirements. But it is those students who are active OUTSIDE of the classroom that most often catches the eye of an Interviewer!

Pete Sturtevant, PE