3 answers
Gabriela
Student
Long Beach, California
1
Question
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How do I know which field I want to major in?
I am in 11th grade.
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3 answers
Chelsie Lorenzo
Small Commercial Field Underwriting Consultant
14
Answers
Granby, Connecticut
Updated
Chelsie’s Answer
Only you can really make that determination, but I have some advice on what I would do if I could do it all over again. I changed my major multiple times because I thought I had to pick a major before I went to college and I wish someone had been there to tell me that you do not need to know exactly what you want to do when you apply to college. Changing my major so many times actually made my education process take longer and I incurred even more student loans which was not necessary if I had went about it different. I was the first in my family to go to college so I really did not have much guidance. There are degree programs that are specifically for those who do not know exactly what they want to do already, and honestly I wish I better understood this, and did not try and predict my future and likes so far in advance. If I could do it all over, I would have gotten a business degree because it can apply to SO many field of work. Whether you own your own business or work for an established company, the basic foundation of a business degree will help you. Then as you figure out your likes and interests you can focus your final courses on those areas, or pick a minor.
If you know what you want to do then I am all for going right into college to pursue that specific particular degree type, but if you do not, start very general and broad and make changes as you go!
If you are 16, get a part time job now or during the summer if you are very involved in sports/activities already in high school, but having a job is a sure way to start to figure out what you like, and more importantly what you dislike. There will always be parts of a job you do not like, thats why it is called work. Its rare to have a job that is your life passion, but not impossible.
If you know what you want to do then I am all for going right into college to pursue that specific particular degree type, but if you do not, start very general and broad and make changes as you go!
If you are 16, get a part time job now or during the summer if you are very involved in sports/activities already in high school, but having a job is a sure way to start to figure out what you like, and more importantly what you dislike. There will always be parts of a job you do not like, thats why it is called work. Its rare to have a job that is your life passion, but not impossible.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
745
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Look for something that you love to do.
As an advisor I saw many people pursue majors and careers only for monetary reasons, and then quit because they disliked the career so much.
It is better to do something you love and enjoy, than do nothing at all.
As an advisor I saw many people pursue majors and careers only for monetary reasons, and then quit because they disliked the career so much.
It is better to do something you love and enjoy, than do nothing at all.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6182
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hey there, Gabriela!
Deciding on a major can feel like a big deal, and it's totally okay if you're a bit uncertain about what direction you want to head in. As a junior in high school, you've got ample time to discover what truly excites you before you have to make a final call. Here are some handy tips to help you figure out your possible major:
1. Self-reflection: Take some time to consider what subjects you love and what activities captivate you. Are you a whiz at math and science, or does your heart lie with writing and the arts? Do you thrive in a team, or do you prefer going solo? Recognizing your strengths and interests can help you pinpoint your choices.
2. Field exploration: Dive into different areas of study to understand what they involve. Investigate potential careers, salary expectations, and the coursework required for various majors. Chat with your school counselor, college admissions officers, or professionals in fields that pique your interest for more insights.
3. Values and goals: Reflect on what you value most in a job. Is a high salary your goal, or do you value a balanced lifestyle? Do you aspire to make a positive societal impact, or do you dream of a job that lets you travel? Your personal values and goals can steer your decision.
4. Experiment with classes: If you can, try out classes in different subjects to discover what you enjoy and excel at. You might unearth a passion for a subject you never expected!
5. Internships or volunteering: Getting real-world experience in a field can help you decide if it's the right fit for you. Look out for internships or volunteering opportunities in fields you're curious about to get a feel of the work involved.
6. Consult advisors and professionals: Your school counselor, college admissions officers, and professionals in your chosen field can offer valuable advice and insights. They can guide you as you explore your options and make a well-informed decision.
Remember, it's perfectly okay to be unsure at first - many students switch their majors during college, and that's totally normal.
For further guidance, check out these helpful resources:
1. “The College Major Handbook” by Richard A. DeMillo and Richard J. DeMillo
2. “Choosing a Major: A Guide to Deciding What to Study in College” by the National Center for Education Statistics
3. “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Choosing a College Major” by Nancy A. Lee and Laurie P. Koss
These books offer extensive information on choosing a major, including factors to consider, steps to take, and resources to use. They can help you make an informed decision and explore your options.
And remember, a little prayer to Our Lord God can't hurt!
Best of luck,
James.
Deciding on a major can feel like a big deal, and it's totally okay if you're a bit uncertain about what direction you want to head in. As a junior in high school, you've got ample time to discover what truly excites you before you have to make a final call. Here are some handy tips to help you figure out your possible major:
1. Self-reflection: Take some time to consider what subjects you love and what activities captivate you. Are you a whiz at math and science, or does your heart lie with writing and the arts? Do you thrive in a team, or do you prefer going solo? Recognizing your strengths and interests can help you pinpoint your choices.
2. Field exploration: Dive into different areas of study to understand what they involve. Investigate potential careers, salary expectations, and the coursework required for various majors. Chat with your school counselor, college admissions officers, or professionals in fields that pique your interest for more insights.
3. Values and goals: Reflect on what you value most in a job. Is a high salary your goal, or do you value a balanced lifestyle? Do you aspire to make a positive societal impact, or do you dream of a job that lets you travel? Your personal values and goals can steer your decision.
4. Experiment with classes: If you can, try out classes in different subjects to discover what you enjoy and excel at. You might unearth a passion for a subject you never expected!
5. Internships or volunteering: Getting real-world experience in a field can help you decide if it's the right fit for you. Look out for internships or volunteering opportunities in fields you're curious about to get a feel of the work involved.
6. Consult advisors and professionals: Your school counselor, college admissions officers, and professionals in your chosen field can offer valuable advice and insights. They can guide you as you explore your options and make a well-informed decision.
Remember, it's perfectly okay to be unsure at first - many students switch their majors during college, and that's totally normal.
For further guidance, check out these helpful resources:
1. “The College Major Handbook” by Richard A. DeMillo and Richard J. DeMillo
2. “Choosing a Major: A Guide to Deciding What to Study in College” by the National Center for Education Statistics
3. “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Choosing a College Major” by Nancy A. Lee and Laurie P. Koss
These books offer extensive information on choosing a major, including factors to consider, steps to take, and resources to use. They can help you make an informed decision and explore your options.
And remember, a little prayer to Our Lord God can't hurt!
Best of luck,
James.