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When should I decide what I want to major in?
I have a broad idea about what I want to major in but what to get a sense of college and my life after high school before i decide. But when should I decide and have a clear idea of what my major should be?
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Brandon’s Answer
Hi Annie!
In terms of "when" to decide upon a major in college - I am a big believer in not rushing into that decision without having explored a bit academically first. Many colleges will have their students have a broader "general" approach to studying during the first year or two. This is a great opportunity to see what interests you in terms of content.
Talk to your professors and get their insights as to what their journey was in the field they teach - ask if they can connect you with people that are currently practicing in that field (if you are exploring something outside of entering a field with the intention of teaching about that field in a college setting). Ask those people who are currently in the field what their job is like, what are the pain points they encounter, and where do they see that profession going in the next 10, 20, and 30 years.
Ultimately, you want to be able to find something that excites and energizes you for years to come.
In terms of "when" to decide upon a major in college - I am a big believer in not rushing into that decision without having explored a bit academically first. Many colleges will have their students have a broader "general" approach to studying during the first year or two. This is a great opportunity to see what interests you in terms of content.
Talk to your professors and get their insights as to what their journey was in the field they teach - ask if they can connect you with people that are currently practicing in that field (if you are exploring something outside of entering a field with the intention of teaching about that field in a college setting). Ask those people who are currently in the field what their job is like, what are the pain points they encounter, and where do they see that profession going in the next 10, 20, and 30 years.
Ultimately, you want to be able to find something that excites and energizes you for years to come.
Angella chepchirchir
SEO, MARKETING, ANALYST , psychologist
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Angella’s Answer
Deciding on a major is an important decision, but it's also common for students to enter college with a broad idea or undecided major. It's perfectly okay to explore your interests and gain a sense of college life before committing to a specific major. Here are some factors to consider when determining the right time to decide on your major:
Exploration and self-reflection: College offers a variety of courses and opportunities to explore different subjects. Take advantage of this time to enroll in introductory classes from various disciplines that interest you. This exploration will help you discover your strengths, passions, and areas of genuine curiosity.
Academic requirements: While you may not need to declare your major right away, some universities have specific timelines or prerequisites for certain programs. Familiarize yourself with your institution's policies to ensure you meet any necessary deadlines or criteria.
Sophomore year or beyond: Many students choose to decide on their major during their sophomore year of college or even later. By this point, you will have had exposure to different academic disciplines and have a clearer understanding of your interests and academic strengths.
Career considerations: While it's not necessary to have a specific major in mind before college, it can be helpful to start considering potential career paths early on. Research the professions that align with your interests, speak with professionals in those fields, and explore the academic requirements for those careers. This can provide some guidance when selecting a major.
Seek guidance and advice: Utilize the resources available to you, such as academic advisors, career counseling services, and faculty members. They can provide valuable insights, help you explore different options, and offer guidance based on your interests and goals.
Remember, it's normal for your interests and goals to evolve over time, and it's okay to change your major if you feel the need to. College is a period of growth and self-discovery, so give yourself the flexibility to explore different subjects and make an informed decision that aligns with your passions and aspirations.
Exploration and self-reflection: College offers a variety of courses and opportunities to explore different subjects. Take advantage of this time to enroll in introductory classes from various disciplines that interest you. This exploration will help you discover your strengths, passions, and areas of genuine curiosity.
Academic requirements: While you may not need to declare your major right away, some universities have specific timelines or prerequisites for certain programs. Familiarize yourself with your institution's policies to ensure you meet any necessary deadlines or criteria.
Sophomore year or beyond: Many students choose to decide on their major during their sophomore year of college or even later. By this point, you will have had exposure to different academic disciplines and have a clearer understanding of your interests and academic strengths.
Career considerations: While it's not necessary to have a specific major in mind before college, it can be helpful to start considering potential career paths early on. Research the professions that align with your interests, speak with professionals in those fields, and explore the academic requirements for those careers. This can provide some guidance when selecting a major.
Seek guidance and advice: Utilize the resources available to you, such as academic advisors, career counseling services, and faculty members. They can provide valuable insights, help you explore different options, and offer guidance based on your interests and goals.
Remember, it's normal for your interests and goals to evolve over time, and it's okay to change your major if you feel the need to. College is a period of growth and self-discovery, so give yourself the flexibility to explore different subjects and make an informed decision that aligns with your passions and aspirations.
Updated
Karina’s Answer
If you're feeling uncertain about choosing a major, it's absolutely okay. Remember, there's plenty of time to make this decision, even after you've started college. Most colleges require students to take a variety of general classes. This is a great opportunity to explore different fields of study and see which ones resonate with you before you commit to a major. It's also important to know that it's completely normal to change your major. I know people who've switched their major more than once and still managed to graduate on time. Ultimately, the goal is to find a field that you're passionate about. So, don't stress if it takes a few attempts to find the right fit.