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what should I consider while I select my college major?
I'm starting the application process soon but I dont have a plan yet for what I can study.
7 answers
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Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. First, you have to find out what careers you have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps!.Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps!.Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hello Julia,
Your question is indeed significant. Here are some key points to ponder upon:
1. Personal Interests:
Choosing a degree is a long-term commitment, often leading to a lifelong career. Therefore, it's crucial to select a major that genuinely intrigues you and aligns with your potential career path.
2. Lifestyle Aspirations:
It's undeniable that some degrees offer higher financial returns than others. This factor is worth serious contemplation as it can affect your lifestyle outside work. Consider if the potential trade-off between a loved career and a less desirable lifestyle is worth it for you. Also, envision your life not just in the present or the next five years, but also a decade or two down the line, when you might have a family and other responsibilities. Your degree choice can significantly influence these aspects.
3. Debt-to-Income Ratio:
Always evaluate the earning potential of the degree against the cost of education. While student loans are not necessarily bad, it's not ideal to be in a situation where the loan repayment exceeds your income, making it impossible to pay off the debt.
4. Geographic Compatibility:
Certain careers may require relocation for growth. For instance, marine biology might necessitate living near an ocean or water body. Not all cities are suitable for every profession, so your career growth might be restricted if you are unwilling to move. Therefore, consider if your desired career aligns with your preferred location.
Your question is indeed significant. Here are some key points to ponder upon:
1. Personal Interests:
Choosing a degree is a long-term commitment, often leading to a lifelong career. Therefore, it's crucial to select a major that genuinely intrigues you and aligns with your potential career path.
2. Lifestyle Aspirations:
It's undeniable that some degrees offer higher financial returns than others. This factor is worth serious contemplation as it can affect your lifestyle outside work. Consider if the potential trade-off between a loved career and a less desirable lifestyle is worth it for you. Also, envision your life not just in the present or the next five years, but also a decade or two down the line, when you might have a family and other responsibilities. Your degree choice can significantly influence these aspects.
3. Debt-to-Income Ratio:
Always evaluate the earning potential of the degree against the cost of education. While student loans are not necessarily bad, it's not ideal to be in a situation where the loan repayment exceeds your income, making it impossible to pay off the debt.
4. Geographic Compatibility:
Certain careers may require relocation for growth. For instance, marine biology might necessitate living near an ocean or water body. Not all cities are suitable for every profession, so your career growth might be restricted if you are unwilling to move. Therefore, consider if your desired career aligns with your preferred location.
Naivasha Williams Mangrum, M.Ed., M.A., NCC, QBHS
College & Career Counselor
3
Answers
Updated
Naivasha’s Answer
What's been the subject that's sparked your interest the most during your time in school? What aspects of it do you find engaging or even captivating? Are there certain areas or topics that you find yourself naturally gravitating towards? If financial constraints were non-existent, what would you envision yourself doing? These are the questions you should consider. They can guide you towards identifying your ideal field of study. If you're like me, it might be challenging to single out just one interest. In such situations, it's beneficial to opt for a major that offers ample flexibility.
For instance, choosing a major like English or Writing could open up a diverse range of career paths for you, such as advertising, public relations, law, education, authorship, editing, content creation, and more.
When you're uncertain about your future direction, it's wise to select a flexible field rather than a highly specialized one. This approach allows you to explore multiple avenues and discover where your true passion lies.
For instance, choosing a major like English or Writing could open up a diverse range of career paths for you, such as advertising, public relations, law, education, authorship, editing, content creation, and more.
When you're uncertain about your future direction, it's wise to select a flexible field rather than a highly specialized one. This approach allows you to explore multiple avenues and discover where your true passion lies.
Updated
Astrid’s Answer
Hello Julia,
There's a world of opportunities waiting for you in the realm of education. Schools often offer scholarships for various fields, among other benefits. Take a good look at the institutions you're considering applying to, and check if they have any such provisions that could be of help to you. Also, remember that each school may have different programs, so it's worth exploring these differences.
Think about the activities that bring you joy. Whether it's building, sketching, or any other hobby, these can be a guiding light towards potential career paths such as architecture, art, engineering, and more. By aligning your passions with your studies, you'll find a degree that not only requires your skills but also helps you to further develop them. So, take a moment to delve deep into the skills you love to use, as they might just reveal the perfect course of study for you.
Don't hesitate to venture into unknown territories either. Try watching introductory lectures on a variety of subjects to see which ones pique your interest. This exploration will help you get a clearer picture of the subjects you truly enjoy.
Remember, this journey you're embarking on is a thrilling adventure of self-discovery. Best of luck, and may you find the path that's perfect for you!
There's a world of opportunities waiting for you in the realm of education. Schools often offer scholarships for various fields, among other benefits. Take a good look at the institutions you're considering applying to, and check if they have any such provisions that could be of help to you. Also, remember that each school may have different programs, so it's worth exploring these differences.
Think about the activities that bring you joy. Whether it's building, sketching, or any other hobby, these can be a guiding light towards potential career paths such as architecture, art, engineering, and more. By aligning your passions with your studies, you'll find a degree that not only requires your skills but also helps you to further develop them. So, take a moment to delve deep into the skills you love to use, as they might just reveal the perfect course of study for you.
Don't hesitate to venture into unknown territories either. Try watching introductory lectures on a variety of subjects to see which ones pique your interest. This exploration will help you get a clearer picture of the subjects you truly enjoy.
Remember, this journey you're embarking on is a thrilling adventure of self-discovery. Best of luck, and may you find the path that's perfect for you!
Updated
Danuta’s Answer
Do reflect on your interests and passions. Perform self-observation for several weeks and then go back to your notes and see how your interest in some areas has stayed the same, increased, or withered away. Do not pick your major because it looks cool or somebody told you to pick it because there is good money in it. Choosing your major is important, however, please keep in mind that once you enter college and start exploring other areas, you may find that you wish to change your major and it is OK. Research shows that 81% of students change their major in their 2nd year of study.
Racheal Noble, Ph.D., LMFT, LPC, NCC
Mental health, education, research, care coordinator
105
Answers
Updated
Racheal’s Answer
Hi and great question! This is such a controversial question because people get very heated about what to do with their life choice.
The thing about college is that the door will always remain open. It is an investment and career needs and differences will be evolving forever.
I believe when I made a decision in my career I considered the multiple paths that I could go into that will allow for me to change roles, however use my degree.
Psychology provides that option.
I'm a professor and provides private practice work, however I have the option to go into reseaxh, consulting, and supervision,, and still have financial gain.
Consider interest as well, so you do not have to go back to school for multiple degrees because you want to do or learn something else over and over again. It cam be overwhelming in a multiple of aspects.
Keep these things mind, and I hope that helps.
The thing about college is that the door will always remain open. It is an investment and career needs and differences will be evolving forever.
I believe when I made a decision in my career I considered the multiple paths that I could go into that will allow for me to change roles, however use my degree.
Psychology provides that option.
I'm a professor and provides private practice work, however I have the option to go into reseaxh, consulting, and supervision,, and still have financial gain.
Consider interest as well, so you do not have to go back to school for multiple degrees because you want to do or learn something else over and over again. It cam be overwhelming in a multiple of aspects.
Keep these things mind, and I hope that helps.
Updated
Rafael’s Answer
Hi Julia! There are a few important things to consider when selecting your college major. First, think about your interests and passions. What subjects or areas that excite you? Next, reflect on your skills and strengths. What are you naturally good at? Consider majors that align with your abilities. It's also important to explore potential career goals and research the job market to ensure there are opportunities in your chosen field. If you're unsure, look for programs that offer flexibility or allow you to explore different subjects before declaring a major. Please utilize resources like career counseling services at your school. Remember, college is a time for exploration, so follow your passions and best of luck!
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