11 answers
Elizabeth
Student
Katy, Texas
1
Question
Asked
893 views
How do I figure out what I want to major in when there is multiple things I’m interested in I’m scared of getting stuck in one spot and not being able to use my college major or experience to the best of my ability.?
Hello, I am a rising Junior. I am the president of future business leaders of America (FBLA) and a robotics captain. I am interested in business management, business law, graphic design, mechanical engineering, and computer science.
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11 answers
Cristina Merida
Renewals Manager
2
Answers
Andalusia, Andalusia, Spain
Updated
Cristina’s Answer
Hello Elizabeth,
It's perfectly normal to step into college without a clear-cut plan. That's part of the adventure! Take a moment to envision your future self. What do you see? What would you like to become? Once you have a rough idea, you can start exploring the various career paths that could lead you there.
Remember, there's no rule saying you can only pick one degree. If you're passionate about two areas, why not combine them? It could open up even more exciting opportunities for you.
Elisha made a great point in his post - your choice of major doesn't have to set your career in stone. It's absolutely fine to change your mind down the line if you find that your initial choice isn't quite what you expected. Life is all about growth and change, after all.
It's perfectly normal to step into college without a clear-cut plan. That's part of the adventure! Take a moment to envision your future self. What do you see? What would you like to become? Once you have a rough idea, you can start exploring the various career paths that could lead you there.
Remember, there's no rule saying you can only pick one degree. If you're passionate about two areas, why not combine them? It could open up even more exciting opportunities for you.
Elisha made a great point in his post - your choice of major doesn't have to set your career in stone. It's absolutely fine to change your mind down the line if you find that your initial choice isn't quite what you expected. Life is all about growth and change, after all.
Fernando Flores
eCommerce Manager
2
Answers
Guadalajara
Updated
Fernando’s Answer
Hello Elizabeth,
It's always a great start knowing what you like! Now, the next step is to pinpoint the areas where you naturally excel and those you'd love to develop further. Utilize strengths that synergize well together, enabling you to explore the breadth of your interests.
My best advice: a linear path from college to work is a rarity. Mastery in one field doesn't confine us from expanding our knowledge and collaborating with other fields, regardless of their differences. Embrace patience and seize the opportunity to become a versatile expert in as many areas as you want.
It's always a great start knowing what you like! Now, the next step is to pinpoint the areas where you naturally excel and those you'd love to develop further. Utilize strengths that synergize well together, enabling you to explore the breadth of your interests.
My best advice: a linear path from college to work is a rarity. Mastery in one field doesn't confine us from expanding our knowledge and collaborating with other fields, regardless of their differences. Embrace patience and seize the opportunity to become a versatile expert in as many areas as you want.
Megan McCoy
Career Coach
162
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Hi Elizabeth!
I would try to use your last year of high school to really explore these interests further. Look into completing the following:
job shadow someone in one of the careers of interest
volunteer work related to the career of interest- maybe helping a nonprofit you care about with some graphic design work
internship or part-time job related to the careers of interest
Summer camp- see if a university offers a summer camp related to a career of interest
really explore these in classes and opportunities at school.
When you start college my suggestion would be to spend your first two years of college focusing on your general education courses. These courses often overlap with majors and can be a way for you to explore before committing. I would be sure to meet with your academic advisor on campus to talk about the best courses to take to explore these options while knocking off your general education requirements. I would use the first two years to explore these careers more with internships, part-time jobs, clubs, and organizations, etc. By the time you are a junior in college, you will hopefully have a clearer idea of what you want to do.
The great thing is that your interests go great together and you can duel major and have a major and minor of them. For example you could major in business and minor in graphic design.
I hope this was helpful!
I would try to use your last year of high school to really explore these interests further. Look into completing the following:
job shadow someone in one of the careers of interest
volunteer work related to the career of interest- maybe helping a nonprofit you care about with some graphic design work
internship or part-time job related to the careers of interest
Summer camp- see if a university offers a summer camp related to a career of interest
really explore these in classes and opportunities at school.
When you start college my suggestion would be to spend your first two years of college focusing on your general education courses. These courses often overlap with majors and can be a way for you to explore before committing. I would be sure to meet with your academic advisor on campus to talk about the best courses to take to explore these options while knocking off your general education requirements. I would use the first two years to explore these careers more with internships, part-time jobs, clubs, and organizations, etc. By the time you are a junior in college, you will hopefully have a clearer idea of what you want to do.
The great thing is that your interests go great together and you can duel major and have a major and minor of them. For example you could major in business and minor in graphic design.
I hope this was helpful!
Brian Lien
Consulting Analyst
4
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Hello Elizabeth,
It's fantastic to see you taking the initiative and planning ahead. I can relate to your situation, as I was once in your position at a similar age. If I could step back in time, here are some proactive steps I would take. I eventually found my calling in tech consulting, which I find fulfilling.
1. Undertake Career Evaluations: Begin by participating in career evaluations to identify your unique strengths, passions, and abilities. This could offer you a glimpse into potential career trajectories that match your character.
2. Use LinkedIn to learn more about the fields! Make a LinkedIn profile and form connections with professionals in the sectors you're curious about. Feel free to ask them for guidance. Their personal experiences can offer invaluable insights.
3. Engage in Online Forums: Delve into online communities such as Reddit and Quora to gain insights from real-life experiences in various fields. Consider both the advantages and the hurdles to gain a well-rounded viewpoint.
4. Consulting path may be a consideration: Think about venturing into consulting. It offers exposure to a range of industries, enabling you to discover what you truly enjoy and excel at, while tackling a variety of challenges.
Keep in mind, your journey may change as time goes on, and it's perfectly fine to explore various paths. Stay receptive to new learning experiences and be flexible as you uncover what truly aligns with your passion.
It's fantastic to see you taking the initiative and planning ahead. I can relate to your situation, as I was once in your position at a similar age. If I could step back in time, here are some proactive steps I would take. I eventually found my calling in tech consulting, which I find fulfilling.
1. Undertake Career Evaluations: Begin by participating in career evaluations to identify your unique strengths, passions, and abilities. This could offer you a glimpse into potential career trajectories that match your character.
2. Use LinkedIn to learn more about the fields! Make a LinkedIn profile and form connections with professionals in the sectors you're curious about. Feel free to ask them for guidance. Their personal experiences can offer invaluable insights.
3. Engage in Online Forums: Delve into online communities such as Reddit and Quora to gain insights from real-life experiences in various fields. Consider both the advantages and the hurdles to gain a well-rounded viewpoint.
4. Consulting path may be a consideration: Think about venturing into consulting. It offers exposure to a range of industries, enabling you to discover what you truly enjoy and excel at, while tackling a variety of challenges.
Keep in mind, your journey may change as time goes on, and it's perfectly fine to explore various paths. Stay receptive to new learning experiences and be flexible as you uncover what truly aligns with your passion.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
750
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
You might consider the Bachelor's degree in General Studies, if you have multiple interests.
This allows you to choose a variety of subjects to accrue credits and gain a college degree.
You can also look at the possibility of taking a minor in a specific area of study. Major in General Studies with a minor in business, or psychology, economics or another area of interest.
This allows you to choose a variety of subjects to accrue credits and gain a college degree.
You can also look at the possibility of taking a minor in a specific area of study. Major in General Studies with a minor in business, or psychology, economics or another area of interest.
Doctorate Student -
Psychology/Forensic Science
58
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Doctorate Student’s Answer
Hello there! These are all great career paths to follow, by the way! The most important thing is to follow your passion, and everything else will naturally align. To save both time and money, consider starting with General Education courses at a Community College, which are usually tuition-free. This will also give you a taste of what subjects truly captivate you. Don't hesitate to consult with a college or career counselor, as their guidance can be incredibly beneficial. Here's to your success! Best of luck and warm wishes on your journey!
Elisha Ferdinand
Quality control and assurance
3
Answers
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Updated
Elisha’s Answer
Hello.
Oooh let's Go succeed in our carriers. It's common to have multiple interests. Consider your passions, skills, and long-term goals. Research potential majors, talk to professors and professionals, and explore internships. Remember, your major doesn't define your entire career – adaptability and transferable skills matter too. It's okay to be unsure; many people change careers throughout their lives. Keep an open mind and choose a path that excites you.
Oooh let's Go succeed in our carriers. It's common to have multiple interests. Consider your passions, skills, and long-term goals. Research potential majors, talk to professors and professionals, and explore internships. Remember, your major doesn't define your entire career – adaptability and transferable skills matter too. It's okay to be unsure; many people change careers throughout their lives. Keep an open mind and choose a path that excites you.
Brendon Isaacs
Teacher Aide
6
Answers
Taylor, AZ
Updated
Brendon’s Answer
As a current college student with a job aligned after two years of work in one field of interest and three years of experience in my current career, I know it's rough not knowing where to focus your energy. Here's several tips I would like to offer:
1. Pursue all your interests with intent to use all of them until you find the best ones for you. It's okay to be unsure about what to focus on. After all, what things interested you when you were a child don't fully interest you as a young adult, and a few years down the road you might have very different interests than you do now. Find what you know you want to have as a necessary part of your career, and let any other parts be either a secondary or a hobby to peruse on the side.
2. There are plenty of different places and times to further educate yourself in other interests. There are many people who even pursue alternate careers halfway through the career they have been in for decades. It's never too late to change your mind and switch. Ask any number of people and they will often say they have degrees in different areas than where they initially planned to be.
3. If you know that you have a need for certain academic levels for all your interests, then approach your education with a drive for those levels. Don't fret over what degree you specialize in so much as having the degree level your career would require. A degree is to prove that you can learn and improve, and that is more important to most companies than having a direct degree. A degree in business doesn't disqualify you from pursuing a career in engineering.
4. Start looking for what job you want to have based around your interests. Use sites that are focused on job searching like LinkedIn or Indeed to find jobs that match what you want for yourself. You can easily see what you would need for the job because the employers are asking for it for interviews. That will give you a good idea of where to focus your energy.
5. Don't be afraid to career dabble. Sometimes you can be consciously or subconsciously nudged in a certain direction while you're growing up, only to leave home and realize it isn't what you want. Pursue your interests, but if you don't feel like they're right for you, don't be afraid to switch to an alternate route.
6. Be patient with yourself and others. Change happens, and you are always able to change your mind. You may find yourself on a completely different path than initially planned, and people might not be able to understand it. Some might be afraid for you or angry with you for this. Remind yourself that you're in charge of your life, not them. Life is meant to be lived with joy, so find the best joy you can, whatever you pursue. Others will or won't accept the choice you make, but you don't control them. You do control yourself and who you allow in your life.
Long story short, look at the jobs that are interesting to you now and start trying to make it happen, but don't be surprised if you end up somewhere different than initially planned, and live and love life in the process.
I hope this helps you to find what you need for whatever the future holds.
1. Pursue all your interests with intent to use all of them until you find the best ones for you. It's okay to be unsure about what to focus on. After all, what things interested you when you were a child don't fully interest you as a young adult, and a few years down the road you might have very different interests than you do now. Find what you know you want to have as a necessary part of your career, and let any other parts be either a secondary or a hobby to peruse on the side.
2. There are plenty of different places and times to further educate yourself in other interests. There are many people who even pursue alternate careers halfway through the career they have been in for decades. It's never too late to change your mind and switch. Ask any number of people and they will often say they have degrees in different areas than where they initially planned to be.
3. If you know that you have a need for certain academic levels for all your interests, then approach your education with a drive for those levels. Don't fret over what degree you specialize in so much as having the degree level your career would require. A degree is to prove that you can learn and improve, and that is more important to most companies than having a direct degree. A degree in business doesn't disqualify you from pursuing a career in engineering.
4. Start looking for what job you want to have based around your interests. Use sites that are focused on job searching like LinkedIn or Indeed to find jobs that match what you want for yourself. You can easily see what you would need for the job because the employers are asking for it for interviews. That will give you a good idea of where to focus your energy.
5. Don't be afraid to career dabble. Sometimes you can be consciously or subconsciously nudged in a certain direction while you're growing up, only to leave home and realize it isn't what you want. Pursue your interests, but if you don't feel like they're right for you, don't be afraid to switch to an alternate route.
6. Be patient with yourself and others. Change happens, and you are always able to change your mind. You may find yourself on a completely different path than initially planned, and people might not be able to understand it. Some might be afraid for you or angry with you for this. Remind yourself that you're in charge of your life, not them. Life is meant to be lived with joy, so find the best joy you can, whatever you pursue. Others will or won't accept the choice you make, but you don't control them. You do control yourself and who you allow in your life.
Long story short, look at the jobs that are interesting to you now and start trying to make it happen, but don't be surprised if you end up somewhere different than initially planned, and live and love life in the process.
I hope this helps you to find what you need for whatever the future holds.
Emmanuel M'bra
English and French Tutor, Screenwriter, Evangelist
17
Answers
Abidjan, Lagunes Region, Côte d'Ivoire
Updated
Emmanuel’s Answer
Hello dear Elizabeth,
Congratulations! Because you already made the first step. You listed in your post some things you are interested in. Good job.
Now the second and useful step is to find:
-what you are better in,
-what you love and understand more
-what you can do easily
The secret is to also check your grades, talent, awards you already got in such a field.
I mean, for instance,
maybe since your childhood you were the best drawer, if so, think about "Graphic Design"
Or maybe at school, you get more good grades in Computer Science, if so, think about that subject.
"Nothing is difficult, nothing is easy, just work hard and love what you do"
God bless you Elizabeth,
Have a wonderful academic journey!
Congratulations! Because you already made the first step. You listed in your post some things you are interested in. Good job.
Now the second and useful step is to find:
-what you are better in,
-what you love and understand more
-what you can do easily
The secret is to also check your grades, talent, awards you already got in such a field.
I mean, for instance,
maybe since your childhood you were the best drawer, if so, think about "Graphic Design"
Or maybe at school, you get more good grades in Computer Science, if so, think about that subject.
"Nothing is difficult, nothing is easy, just work hard and love what you do"
God bless you Elizabeth,
Have a wonderful academic journey!
Mustabsheera Vengus
GMBPsS 🎓 | Aspiring Psychologist | Behavior Therapist | Counselor | Mentor
38
Answers
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Updated
Mustabsheera’s Answer
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about choosing a college major, especially when you have multiple interests. Here are some steps to help you navigate this decision-making process:
1. Self-Reflection:
- Take some time to reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values. Consider what activities or subjects make you feel excited and fulfilled.
- Think about the skills you enjoy using and would like to develop further. Reflect on your long-term goals and how a particular major might align with them.
2. Explore Your Interests:
- Take a variety of classes in your first year of college to explore different subjects.
- Join clubs, organizations, or activities related to your interests. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of various fields and connect with people who share similar passions.
3. Career Research:
- Research potential careers related to your interests. Look into the job market, growth opportunities, and the skills required for different professions.
- Consider reaching out to professionals in fields you're interested in for informational interviews. This can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of various careers.
4. Talk to Academic Advisors:
- Schedule meetings with academic advisors to discuss your interests, concerns, and potential career paths. They can provide guidance on choosing a major and help you understand the academic requirements of each option.
5. Internships and Volunteer Work:
- Gain hands-on experience through internships, co-op programs, or volunteer work. This can give you a practical understanding of different industries and help you determine if a particular field aligns with your interests.
6. Networking:
- Attend networking events, career fairs, and workshops. Building a professional network can provide you with valuable insights and opportunities within different industries.
7. Consider a Flexible Major or Double Major:
- Some majors offer flexibility, allowing you to tailor your coursework to your interests. Additionally, you might consider a double major if your interests align well.
8.Think Long-Term:
- Keep in mind that many people don't end up working in a field directly related to their major. Focus on developing transferable skills that can be applied across various industries.
9. Embrace Change:
- Understand that it's okay to change your major or career path. Many people have successful and fulfilling careers that are not directly related to their college major.
10. Seek Guidance:
- Talk to professionals, mentors, or people who have been through a similar decision-making process. Their insights and experiences can provide valuable perspectives.
Remember, the goal is not to find the "perfect" major, but rather to choose a path that aligns with your interests and values at the current moment. Your interests may evolve over time, and that's okay. College is a time for exploration and growth, and it's common for people to have multiple career paths throughout their lives.
1. Self-Reflection:
- Take some time to reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values. Consider what activities or subjects make you feel excited and fulfilled.
- Think about the skills you enjoy using and would like to develop further. Reflect on your long-term goals and how a particular major might align with them.
2. Explore Your Interests:
- Take a variety of classes in your first year of college to explore different subjects.
- Join clubs, organizations, or activities related to your interests. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of various fields and connect with people who share similar passions.
3. Career Research:
- Research potential careers related to your interests. Look into the job market, growth opportunities, and the skills required for different professions.
- Consider reaching out to professionals in fields you're interested in for informational interviews. This can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of various careers.
4. Talk to Academic Advisors:
- Schedule meetings with academic advisors to discuss your interests, concerns, and potential career paths. They can provide guidance on choosing a major and help you understand the academic requirements of each option.
5. Internships and Volunteer Work:
- Gain hands-on experience through internships, co-op programs, or volunteer work. This can give you a practical understanding of different industries and help you determine if a particular field aligns with your interests.
6. Networking:
- Attend networking events, career fairs, and workshops. Building a professional network can provide you with valuable insights and opportunities within different industries.
7. Consider a Flexible Major or Double Major:
- Some majors offer flexibility, allowing you to tailor your coursework to your interests. Additionally, you might consider a double major if your interests align well.
8.Think Long-Term:
- Keep in mind that many people don't end up working in a field directly related to their major. Focus on developing transferable skills that can be applied across various industries.
9. Embrace Change:
- Understand that it's okay to change your major or career path. Many people have successful and fulfilling careers that are not directly related to their college major.
10. Seek Guidance:
- Talk to professionals, mentors, or people who have been through a similar decision-making process. Their insights and experiences can provide valuable perspectives.
Remember, the goal is not to find the "perfect" major, but rather to choose a path that aligns with your interests and values at the current moment. Your interests may evolve over time, and that's okay. College is a time for exploration and growth, and it's common for people to have multiple career paths throughout their lives.
Mustabsheera Vengus
GMBPsS 🎓 | Aspiring Psychologist | Behavior Therapist | Counselor | Mentor
38
Answers
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Updated
Mustabsheera’s Answer
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about choosing a college major, especially when you have multiple interests. Here are some steps to help you navigate this decision-making process:
Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your interests, strengths, and passions. Consider what subjects or activities make you excited and engaged. Think about the skills you enjoy using and the problems you'd like to solve.
Research: Research the different majors that align with your interests. Look into the courses and curriculum for each major, as well as potential career paths they can lead to. Try to find majors that resonate with your passions and provide opportunities for growth.
Talk to People: Reach out to professors, advisors, professionals in fields you're interested in, and upperclassmen who are studying those majors. Ask them about their experiences, the challenges and rewards of their chosen paths, and how their majors have prepared them for their careers.
Try Courses: Take introductory courses in the subjects you're considering. This can give you a taste of what each major entails and help you decide if it's something you genuinely enjoy and want to pursue further.
Internships and Volunteering: Consider doing internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering in areas related to your interests. This hands-on experience can provide insights into the day-to-day tasks of different professions and help you decide if a particular field is a good fit.
Transferable Skills: Remember that many skills are transferable across different majors and careers. Communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability are valuable in almost any field. You're not necessarily locking yourself into one path forever.
Combining Interests: If you have multiple interests, explore if there are ways to combine them within a major, minor, or even through extracurricular activities. For example, if you're interested in both psychology and business, you might consider a major in organizational psychology or human resources.
Flexibility: Keep in mind that your major doesn't have to dictate your entire career. Many people end up working in fields that are not directly related to their majors, and they bring a diverse set of skills to their roles.
Plan B: While it's important to pursue your passions, it's also wise to have a backup plan. Consider what other majors might align with your interests and provide different career opportunities.
Take Your Time: Remember that choosing a major is an important decision, but it's not a lifelong commitment. You can change majors or pivot your career path later on if you find that your initial choice isn't the right fit.
Ultimately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to choosing a major. It's a personal decision that requires self-awareness, exploration, and a willingness to adapt as you learn and grow. Don't rush the decision; take the time you need to make an informed choice.
Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your interests, strengths, and passions. Consider what subjects or activities make you excited and engaged. Think about the skills you enjoy using and the problems you'd like to solve.
Research: Research the different majors that align with your interests. Look into the courses and curriculum for each major, as well as potential career paths they can lead to. Try to find majors that resonate with your passions and provide opportunities for growth.
Talk to People: Reach out to professors, advisors, professionals in fields you're interested in, and upperclassmen who are studying those majors. Ask them about their experiences, the challenges and rewards of their chosen paths, and how their majors have prepared them for their careers.
Try Courses: Take introductory courses in the subjects you're considering. This can give you a taste of what each major entails and help you decide if it's something you genuinely enjoy and want to pursue further.
Internships and Volunteering: Consider doing internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering in areas related to your interests. This hands-on experience can provide insights into the day-to-day tasks of different professions and help you decide if a particular field is a good fit.
Transferable Skills: Remember that many skills are transferable across different majors and careers. Communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability are valuable in almost any field. You're not necessarily locking yourself into one path forever.
Combining Interests: If you have multiple interests, explore if there are ways to combine them within a major, minor, or even through extracurricular activities. For example, if you're interested in both psychology and business, you might consider a major in organizational psychology or human resources.
Flexibility: Keep in mind that your major doesn't have to dictate your entire career. Many people end up working in fields that are not directly related to their majors, and they bring a diverse set of skills to their roles.
Plan B: While it's important to pursue your passions, it's also wise to have a backup plan. Consider what other majors might align with your interests and provide different career opportunities.
Take Your Time: Remember that choosing a major is an important decision, but it's not a lifelong commitment. You can change majors or pivot your career path later on if you find that your initial choice isn't the right fit.
Ultimately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to choosing a major. It's a personal decision that requires self-awareness, exploration, and a willingness to adapt as you learn and grow. Don't rush the decision; take the time you need to make an informed choice.