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Hi do I know that I want to major in a certain major before taking the major and end up wanting to switch it later on in the year for another one that I would prefer?

Say I want to major in finance because I think it would be fun but during the first few weeks I don’t like it how do I deal with that?

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Alan’s Answer

Shelby, you'll have plenty of time. Many, probably most students entering college aren't sure what they want their major or career direction to be. In addition to taking generally required classes in your first couple of semesters, it makes sense to take an elective class, like an introduction to finance, so you can get a sense if the field is for you. Usually, colleges allow you a couple of weeks or so to drop out of and replace classes that aren't working for you. But even if you complete the course, you're not compelled to go on in that direction if you find that it isn't what you thought it would be or find something more appealing. It's all part of the process, one of the reasons to be in college. Remember, though, that not all of your classes are going to be "fun." They might be hard, the teacher might not be that good, they might not focus on the most exciting part of the field you're considering, but they're leading you somewhere, and that should be your motivation. It's not clear from your question if you were using finance as an example or it's something you're really interested in. If it's not something you think you'd really care about, I'd suggest you consider what your real interests, hobbies, skills, experiences and values tell you about the things you should be doing with your life. But, again, you'll have time to explore and experiment even once you get to college.
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Erin’s Answer

As someone who changed her major 5 different times, I understand how you feel! It's one thing to think that you want to major in a certain subject, but an entirely different thing to actually do it. Typically, the pre-requisites for majors are very similar, so in the first year and a half or so, you can change your major without much issue. Once you start taking upper-level, specialized classes (such as Finance 200, Accounting 150, ect.), there is more of a money and time commitment to switching majors.

I would recommend job shadowing people in jobs that you may think that you want, as it may lead to you finding the major you enjoy sooner. Another option (though more costly) is taking a 101 class each semester while you get your pre-requisites out of the way (Finance 101, Accounting 101, Law 101, etc.) since these classes usually have a little bit of everything regarding that field and can help you decide if it is something that you're interested in fully pursuing. Additionally, it is always helpful to utilize academic advisors, especially those in the specialties that you think you are interested in, as they may be able to point you in the direction of a major that you'll enjoy.
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Sonia’s Answer

I had a similar experience when I was in college. I started majoring in Computer Information Systems (CIS) which fell under the bracket of "Business Administration." As I went through the first year, I really struggled in all of my CIS classes while I did better in my business administration classes, primarily Accounting. My accounting teacher at the time suggested that I change my major to Accounting. He also told me it's never too soon to start an internship. With that, after a year in, I changed my major.

The main reason colleges require you to take general education classes alongside your major classes is so you can explore where your skills lie and what feels right for you. You can always go undecided and just focus on the general education classes as well.

Good luck to you!
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Brayden’s Answer

Hey Shelby! It's perfectly normal to feel a bit puzzled when making such important decisions. We all do, even I! A great first step would be to have a chat with an Academic Advisor. They're there to help you navigate these choices. After that, consider doing some preliminary research on the major you're interested in. You might even want to have a conversation with a professor in that field to get a clearer picture of what you'd be studying. Just remember, this could potentially increase your tuition, so it's important to be mindful of that.

Here's to finding the best path for you!
-Brayden
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Yisel’s Answer

Hello Shelby,

It's completely natural to start with one major in college and then switch to another. The beauty of college is that it unveils a world of opportunities you may not have previously considered.

Take Denzel Washington as an example. In his commencement speech, he shared that he initially went to college with the intention of becoming a doctor, yet he ended up as a renowned actor.

Don't hesitate to explore and venture beyond your comfort zone. Many courses offer the flexibility to attend a few classes before you make a firm commitment. If it doesn't feel right, you have the option to drop the class within a certain timeframe and explore other subjects or majors.

College is an exciting new chapter in your life, brimming with endless possibilities. It's your chance to build your own limitless universe. So, embrace it with an open mind and heart.
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