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How do I know what to major in when I go to college?
As an incoming senior in high school, I am like most other students who don't know what they want to major in in college. I enjoy business and computer science, so that is most likely what I am interested in. My question is how did you find out what you wanted to major in? Were there any events or extracurriculars that helped you decide? And if you don't like your major, how easy or hard is it to switch over?
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Brendan’s Answer
Hi Kamil, that's a great question. For myself, I went to college planning to major in a field related to astronomy, because as a kid I liked reading about space, and looking at craters on the moon and the rings of Saturn made a big impression on me. I also enjoyed math and science (for example, I participated in math team competitions) and I knew these would be useful for astronomy. I took classes on astronomy while majoring in physics in undergrad, then went on to get an astronomy PhD. A lot of core classes overlap for some majors, so don't feel like you need to know for sure going in. It's common for students to switch majors, or to end up choosing a major different than what they planned when they entered college. You never know where you will end up -- I switched to industry and now help build, validate, and monitor machine learning models, and some of the math and programming that I learned while studying astronomy has been invaluable in my career as a data scientist. I think business and computer science are very nicely complementary interests! Maybe see how you like the introductory computer science courses, and during your first year in college talk to some of the CS majors about their classes and future plans, to decide if you want to focus on CS, or on business, or perhaps both. I would say pursue your passions and be open to moving in new directions as you go. I added a few optional next steps that you can do as you apply to colleges in the fall. Best of luck!
Look into CS and business majors and courses at colleges of interest -- what are the requirements, what elective courses grab your interest?
If you have the chance to visit colleges of interest, see if you can sit in on a CS or business class, or talk to some current students in those majors
Brendan recommends the following next steps:
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Molly’s Answer
Kamil,
This is a great question! Simply answered, I would recommend to step your foot into multiple areas. If you find that what you are currently in or studying does not satisfy and appeal to what you want to do in the future, then you can easily shift away from that one area and focus in another. In college, I knew that I wanted to focus my studies in general business. However, that is all I knew. After focusing my studies in multiple areas of business, I found my way into Human Resources where I currently am working in today. I received my MBA focusing specifically in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources, and currently have a position as an Human Resources Administrator for a Sam's Club distribution and fulfillment center. You will never know what you like until you dip your foot in the water and tread through several areas!
I hope this helped!
Molly H.
This is a great question! Simply answered, I would recommend to step your foot into multiple areas. If you find that what you are currently in or studying does not satisfy and appeal to what you want to do in the future, then you can easily shift away from that one area and focus in another. In college, I knew that I wanted to focus my studies in general business. However, that is all I knew. After focusing my studies in multiple areas of business, I found my way into Human Resources where I currently am working in today. I received my MBA focusing specifically in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources, and currently have a position as an Human Resources Administrator for a Sam's Club distribution and fulfillment center. You will never know what you like until you dip your foot in the water and tread through several areas!
I hope this helped!
Molly H.
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Chad
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Andrew’s Answer
This is an excellent question! Besides the valuable suggestions already provided, remember that an undergraduate degree in various fields can serve as a launchpad for your career or further academic pursuits, rather than defining your daily job. I know numerous individuals who studied physics but work in technology or pursued business degrees and now work in creative industries. Keep in mind that an undergraduate degree often teaches you "how to learn" and helps you utilize resources and networking opportunities to explore your passions.
Addressing your last question first: during the initial years of an undergraduate program, switching majors is usually quite simple without losing credits or prolonging your time in college.
Regarding your other inquiries: I chose to major in Economics because I wanted to comprehend the economic climate prior to 2008 (and particularly during and after the Great Recession) and enjoyed working with large datasets in high school statistics. However, towards the end of my undergraduate studies, I discovered a stronger interest in technology, specifically software development, rather than working in a bank or government agency focused on 'economics.' This realization came from discussing the day-to-day experiences, career paths, and future prospects with professionals in the field.
After obtaining my degree, I embarked on a journey into technology, starting with an entry-level position, earning certifications, and eventually returning to school while working to advance my career.
Even though my undergraduate degree was not directly related to my current field, it equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to grow and establish a fulfilling career that I find genuinely engaging.
Addressing your last question first: during the initial years of an undergraduate program, switching majors is usually quite simple without losing credits or prolonging your time in college.
Regarding your other inquiries: I chose to major in Economics because I wanted to comprehend the economic climate prior to 2008 (and particularly during and after the Great Recession) and enjoyed working with large datasets in high school statistics. However, towards the end of my undergraduate studies, I discovered a stronger interest in technology, specifically software development, rather than working in a bank or government agency focused on 'economics.' This realization came from discussing the day-to-day experiences, career paths, and future prospects with professionals in the field.
After obtaining my degree, I embarked on a journey into technology, starting with an entry-level position, earning certifications, and eventually returning to school while working to advance my career.
Even though my undergraduate degree was not directly related to my current field, it equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to grow and establish a fulfilling career that I find genuinely engaging.
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Shivangi’s Answer
College is a fantastic opportunity for exploration, and you'll discover many others who share your curiosity even after you arrive on campus. One excellent way to delve into new subjects is by enrolling in introductory courses that pique your interest. Participating in clubs can also be a great method for finding like-minded individuals and pursuing shared passions. However, don't restrict yourself to these avenues alone. The internet offers a wealth of information, and numerous online courses are available for further exploration.
I found it beneficial to take classes in subjects that intrigued me, as this approach provided structure and accountability while allowing me to investigate various topics. To deepen my understanding, I would then research the subjects that captivated me the most. When selecting classes, be intentional and avoid opting for "easy" courses just to check them off your list. While there's nothing inherently wrong with this strategy, choosing more challenging classes can lead to discovering new areas of interest you might not have otherwise encountered.
This method helped me determine my major and minor. I'm now double majoring in computer science and data science, with a minor in entrepreneurship. Having enjoyed computer science classes in high school, I knew I wanted to continue in this field in college. After taking a few business and data science courses, I decided to incorporate them into my academic plan as well.
Both computer science and business offer a wide range of subfields, allowing you to select the areas that appeal to you most (after completing prerequisites). If your schedule permits, you can even pursue both fields or choose one as a minor.
Remember, you can always change majors if your initial choice doesn't suit you. Some colleges may have more selective programs for business or engineering, making it more challenging to switch into those fields, but it's certainly not impossible.
Best of luck on your journey!
I found it beneficial to take classes in subjects that intrigued me, as this approach provided structure and accountability while allowing me to investigate various topics. To deepen my understanding, I would then research the subjects that captivated me the most. When selecting classes, be intentional and avoid opting for "easy" courses just to check them off your list. While there's nothing inherently wrong with this strategy, choosing more challenging classes can lead to discovering new areas of interest you might not have otherwise encountered.
This method helped me determine my major and minor. I'm now double majoring in computer science and data science, with a minor in entrepreneurship. Having enjoyed computer science classes in high school, I knew I wanted to continue in this field in college. After taking a few business and data science courses, I decided to incorporate them into my academic plan as well.
Both computer science and business offer a wide range of subfields, allowing you to select the areas that appeal to you most (after completing prerequisites). If your schedule permits, you can even pursue both fields or choose one as a minor.
Remember, you can always change majors if your initial choice doesn't suit you. Some colleges may have more selective programs for business or engineering, making it more challenging to switch into those fields, but it's certainly not impossible.
Best of luck on your journey!
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Murph,’s Answer
Research Research Research! Where do you see your future? What gives you joy? Do you want to major in something get your degree and work? Or is what you eventually want to do, something where you will need 1 or more degrees. Start with your career counselor and look at the occupations/fields/industries that interest you. With computer science there are so many things you can do. The one area that I see with be the career and major of the future will be Gaming. That's right, GAMING! Many CS students are going into Game Art, Game Design as a career. There are traditional routes you can take with what you want to do, but don't be afraid to think outside the box.
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Melissa’s Answer
I'd like to encourage students who are unsure about choosing a major to take an online career personality test. These tests are designed to align your interests with various job roles. Once you've discovered some potential job roles that suit you, dig deeper into each one to see if they truly interest you. When you've narrowed down a few specific job roles that excite you, try reaching out to an adult who works in that field for an interview or job shadowing opportunity. You can find these connections through your parents, friends' parents, school staff, and more. Additionally, be sure to look into the educational requirements for each job to ensure they align with your interests.
As for changing majors after starting college, it's generally quite simple, especially during your first 1-2 years. For instance, many engineering majors share the same foundational courses (math, chemistry, general electives, etc.). If you're considering switching to a completely different field (like from business to engineering), it's best to make this decision early in your college career, as the required courses may differ significantly. Personally, I switched from Civil & Environmental Engineering to Materials Science & Engineering after my first year of college and still finished college in 4 years. The process of changing majors or schools is usually straightforward, and the administrative staff at your college can help guide you through it.
For your specific situation, I recommend looking at the course requirements for both business and computer science before enrolling in classes. Compare the overlap between the two programs and determine which one has more demanding requirements. By doing this before beginning your coursework, you'll have a clearer idea of when you need to decide between the two majors (or even consider a double major!) without taking unnecessary classes that won't count towards your degree. Best of luck!
As for changing majors after starting college, it's generally quite simple, especially during your first 1-2 years. For instance, many engineering majors share the same foundational courses (math, chemistry, general electives, etc.). If you're considering switching to a completely different field (like from business to engineering), it's best to make this decision early in your college career, as the required courses may differ significantly. Personally, I switched from Civil & Environmental Engineering to Materials Science & Engineering after my first year of college and still finished college in 4 years. The process of changing majors or schools is usually straightforward, and the administrative staff at your college can help guide you through it.
For your specific situation, I recommend looking at the course requirements for both business and computer science before enrolling in classes. Compare the overlap between the two programs and determine which one has more demanding requirements. By doing this before beginning your coursework, you'll have a clearer idea of when you need to decide between the two majors (or even consider a double major!) without taking unnecessary classes that won't count towards your degree. Best of luck!
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Madi’s Answer
Hello Kamil,
It's fantastic that you've identified your interests in business and computer science as potential college majors!
In my case, I chose Forensic Accounting as my major because I was fascinated by solving investigations and working with numbers. My love for mystery shows and piecing together the real story behind events influenced my decision to pursue this field.
When it comes to changing majors, it's usually not too difficult, particularly if the new major is somewhat connected to the original one. General education credits can be applied to any major, and if the majors share some common ground, you'll likely find that some of those credits transfer over as well.
Wishing you all the best!
It's fantastic that you've identified your interests in business and computer science as potential college majors!
In my case, I chose Forensic Accounting as my major because I was fascinated by solving investigations and working with numbers. My love for mystery shows and piecing together the real story behind events influenced my decision to pursue this field.
When it comes to changing majors, it's usually not too difficult, particularly if the new major is somewhat connected to the original one. General education credits can be applied to any major, and if the majors share some common ground, you'll likely find that some of those credits transfer over as well.
Wishing you all the best!
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Doctorate Student’s Answer
Taking that bold step to chase your dreams is truly an admirable endeavor! Dive deep into what you love, and everything else will seamlessly align. To unlock your full potential, think about starting your educational voyage with General Education classes at a Community College. These classes are usually free of charge, offering an amazing opportunity to delve into topics that genuinely ignite your curiosity. Remember, college or career counselors are always on hand to help. Their expert advice could be your secret weapon in discovering your untapped talents. So, here's to a future that's bright and flourishing! May your exciting journey overflow with boundless success and joy!
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Lynn’s Answer
Many of us are unsure about our desired career path. High school and college offer excellent opportunities to explore various subjects, such as art, design, computer science, biology, and more. These courses can help you discover your interests.
College allows you to choose electives that can enrich your education and encourage you to try new things. For example, I focused on general business studies but also pursued graphic arts due to my passion for it. Eventually, I landed a job as a Media Planner at an Advertising Agency, which combined my interests in business and creativity.
Gaining experience in a field you're interested in can also help develop your skills. If you aspire to be a veterinarian, consider working at a vet clinic or animal shelter.
Does this make sense? Best of luck on your journey!
College allows you to choose electives that can enrich your education and encourage you to try new things. For example, I focused on general business studies but also pursued graphic arts due to my passion for it. Eventually, I landed a job as a Media Planner at an Advertising Agency, which combined my interests in business and creativity.
Gaining experience in a field you're interested in can also help develop your skills. If you aspire to be a veterinarian, consider working at a vet clinic or animal shelter.
Does this make sense? Best of luck on your journey!
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Freddy’s Answer
Hey there! That's an excellent question, and the answer can go in two directions:
Firstly, if you're already comfortable with a specific area, you might be close to choosing your career. However, stay alert, as sometimes this could change in the future. So, don't stress about making a decision just yet. Take your time – it's not necessary to have a preference right now. You'll discover your interests as time goes by.
Secondly, if you have no idea what you want to do, there's no need to worry! As mentioned earlier, your preferences might change over time. Just be patient, and you'll eventually find something that you truly enjoy doing. Once you find that "thing," you can adapt and set yourself up for success!
In summary, don't feel anxious if you're unsure about your future career. Take your time, and it will naturally come to you – you might not even have to search for it!
Firstly, if you're already comfortable with a specific area, you might be close to choosing your career. However, stay alert, as sometimes this could change in the future. So, don't stress about making a decision just yet. Take your time – it's not necessary to have a preference right now. You'll discover your interests as time goes by.
Secondly, if you have no idea what you want to do, there's no need to worry! As mentioned earlier, your preferences might change over time. Just be patient, and you'll eventually find something that you truly enjoy doing. Once you find that "thing," you can adapt and set yourself up for success!
In summary, don't feel anxious if you're unsure about your future career. Take your time, and it will naturally come to you – you might not even have to search for it!