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What are some things to consider when picking a college major?

I am a sophomore in Pittsfield searching for a good career

Thank you comment icon Hello there! To better understand you and what careers I can suggest of any... I would ask you, What/if any are your hobbies? Are you a people person? Indoors/outdoors? Would you travel for work? Ashley Tollison
Thank you comment icon My biggest hobby is working on a railroad. I would not necessarily consider myself a people person, but I can associate with them. Outdoors are better for me, and I would travel for work, but not too long of a distance. Thanks! Christopher
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Priya’s Answer

Hi Christopher, here are some questions you can consider: Is there a particular job I want to do? What is the typical major to get those skills? Is there something I am interested in trying or classes I am interested in taking? What classes did I enjoy in high school? What kind of life do I want to live/ what are my values (money, family, achievement, sports, etc?) How long can I afford school? You can also try and talk to a career counselor at the college or your academic advisor right now. O*Net is also a great website to explore careers! Or you can check out the course catalog of the school(s) you are interested in and see what classes pique your interest! Good luck! And remember, its okay to be interested in many things!
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Jeannette’s Answer

I echo the other Answers here -- by understanding your interests and passions, your major will become clear. Your career will grow out of your interests, passions, and character. What is "a good career" to you? You will have to define that yourself, and this is independent of the subject you decide to focus on.

For example, if it is very important to you that your day includes interacting with people, you might set your sights on possibilities for profession/career that have this component on a regular basis.

Some other food for thought: there are some jobs that are always needed because people need the service: health care and medicine, for example. Teaching. Etc. These can be " good careers" because there is fairly consistent reliable demand for them.

Then there are jobs that come with changes that no one can ever predict -- like working with social media. Social media did not exist when I was in college, and "marketing" was very narrowly defined. So how can you prepare for the unexpected? I would suggest, by strengthening your abilities in your interests and passions.

Best of luck to you!

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Monica’s Answer

Hi there. When picking a major, consider what kind of career you’d like to pursue. What do you enjoy learning about? What kind of work could you do that wouldn’t seem like “work” to you? What we’re your favorite subjects/activities in high school? Who is someone you admire and you would love to work with or for? What are your financial goals? Would your career choice help you meet those goals?

These are just some questions to get you thinking. When you develop some ideas about possible careers, talk to one of your school’s counselors to walk you through the courses that will fit best with what you’d like to do.

Hope this helps!
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Anna’s Answer

Hi Christoper! When I was a junior in HS I asked myself the same question. I took a few classes at my local community college when I was a high school senior which helped a lot to get a feel of what I liked versus not. I think community college is a great option to help explore different career options in a more cost effective way.

My own personal experience was that my college major was very different than my hobbies/personal interest, but I love my career now! In HS, I thought I wanted to pursue music as I had taken music lessons most of my life. I ended up taking a business class at the community college my senior year of high school and enjoyed it. I then decided to make Business my major and chose Accounting as my option. A total opposite of a music major!

While I still enjoy music as a side hobby, I encourage trying new things even if you haven't thought about it before. Some passions can be hard to turn into careers, but there's a lot of options out there that can be just as fulfilling and allows you to pursue your hobby on the side as well!!
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Teresa’s Answer

Pick a major that you can still utilize if one career pathway does not work out.
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Evelyn’s Answer

Hello Christopher! There are several things that you need to consider before choosing a major. The most important thing is your interest/passion. You want to make sure that you are doing something you truly enjoy. You may also need to consider what school offer this major, and how much will it cost. Other than that, you may need to consider about the earning potential and job market. This depends on your/your family’s SES.

If you are still confused, talk with your academic advisor or faculty member! Email them and schedule an appointment. Professors and advisors are experienced, and they are willing to help you.
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