8 answers
Zaakirah
Student
1
Question
Asked
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How do i figure out which major is for me?
I used to be very sure about what i wanted to do now im a little confused
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8 answers
Arian Dordelly
Copywriting
10
Answers
La Grita, Táchira
Updated
Arian’s Answer
Hello Zaakirah! It's completely natural to have some confusion when choosing a specialty. Our interests and goals can evolve as we mature and have new experiences. An effective strategy to clarify your doubts is to explore various areas, get involved in internships or volunteer activities, and talk to people who are already working in those sectors. Don't rush, be confident that, over time, you will find the specialty that is the perfect fit for you.
Fernando Iriarte
Freelance Writer & Editor
150
Answers
Puerto Rico
Updated
Fernando’s Answer
Don't worry about the confusion most of us went through the exact same thing. Take some time to go over the fields that you're curious about or bring out the best in you. Whatever comes to mind write it down and then go through it. After you further narrow down the ones the really click with you, begin researching which colleges or universities offer degrees for them. This will take some time, but is a simple process. Always remember that you can call the college you're interested in and talk with a representative to clear up any doubts you have.
Elyse Im
9
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Elyse’s Answer
Take some time to ask yourself what you're truly interested in (there is a clear distinction however between career interests and passions/hobbies)
Also take a moment to reflect on what you imagine for your future - are you traveling a lot? are you meeting a lot of people?
Before jumping in and deciding on a major, take some classes and venture into the filed a bit! Dip your toes in the water - if you think you want to do Computer Science but find yourself hating Intro to Programming 101, then it's a sign it's not for you but now you know! Try new things out and keep track of what you like/don't like
Also take a moment to reflect on what you imagine for your future - are you traveling a lot? are you meeting a lot of people?
Before jumping in and deciding on a major, take some classes and venture into the filed a bit! Dip your toes in the water - if you think you want to do Computer Science but find yourself hating Intro to Programming 101, then it's a sign it's not for you but now you know! Try new things out and keep track of what you like/don't like
Ana Anaya
Marketing
6
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Ana’s Answer
Figuring out which major is right for you can feel like a daunting task, but it's definitely achievable! Here are some practical steps you can take to navigate this decision:
Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your interests, strengths, and values. What subjects or activities do you genuinely enjoy? What are you naturally good at? What kind of impact do you want to make in the world? Understanding yourself better can help you narrow down your options.
Explore Your Options: Research different majors and career paths. Look into the curriculum, job prospects, and potential salary for each major you're considering. Don't limit yourself to what you already know – explore new fields that might pique your interest.
Talk to People: Reach out to professionals who work in fields you're interested in. They can give you insights into what the day-to-day work is like, the challenges they face, and the skills required. Talking to current students in various majors can also provide valuable perspectives.
1. Consider Your Future Goals: Think about where you see yourself in the future. What kind of lifestyle do you envision? Do you want a career that offers stability, flexibility, creativity, or the opportunity to travel? Your long-term goals can help guide your choice of major.
2. Take Classes and Get Involved: If possible, enroll in introductory courses or participate in extracurricular activities related to different majors. This hands-on experience can give you a better sense of whether a particular field is a good fit for you.
3. Seek Guidance: Don't hesitate to seek guidance from academic advisors, career counselors, or mentors. They can provide personalized advice based on your interests, strengths, and goals.
4. Stay Flexible: Remember that your choice of major doesn't necessarily determine your entire career path. Many people end up working in fields unrelated to their majors, and your interests may evolve over time. Stay open to new opportunities and be willing to adapt.
Ultimately, choosing a major is a personal decision, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Trust yourself, gather as much information as you can, and take the time you need to make a thoughtful decision. It's okay to feel uncertain – what's important is that you're actively exploring your options and moving forward with confidence.
Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your interests, strengths, and values. What subjects or activities do you genuinely enjoy? What are you naturally good at? What kind of impact do you want to make in the world? Understanding yourself better can help you narrow down your options.
Explore Your Options: Research different majors and career paths. Look into the curriculum, job prospects, and potential salary for each major you're considering. Don't limit yourself to what you already know – explore new fields that might pique your interest.
Talk to People: Reach out to professionals who work in fields you're interested in. They can give you insights into what the day-to-day work is like, the challenges they face, and the skills required. Talking to current students in various majors can also provide valuable perspectives.
1. Consider Your Future Goals: Think about where you see yourself in the future. What kind of lifestyle do you envision? Do you want a career that offers stability, flexibility, creativity, or the opportunity to travel? Your long-term goals can help guide your choice of major.
2. Take Classes and Get Involved: If possible, enroll in introductory courses or participate in extracurricular activities related to different majors. This hands-on experience can give you a better sense of whether a particular field is a good fit for you.
3. Seek Guidance: Don't hesitate to seek guidance from academic advisors, career counselors, or mentors. They can provide personalized advice based on your interests, strengths, and goals.
4. Stay Flexible: Remember that your choice of major doesn't necessarily determine your entire career path. Many people end up working in fields unrelated to their majors, and your interests may evolve over time. Stay open to new opportunities and be willing to adapt.
Ultimately, choosing a major is a personal decision, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Trust yourself, gather as much information as you can, and take the time you need to make a thoughtful decision. It's okay to feel uncertain – what's important is that you're actively exploring your options and moving forward with confidence.
Heather Stivers
Admin/HR Sup
22
Answers
Kissimmee, Florida
Updated
Heather’s Answer
Hello there, it's perfectly fine to be unsure about your major – you're certainly not the only one! Here are some uplifting pointers to assist you in unraveling the mystery:
Discover Your Passions: Spend some time reflecting on what you love doing in your leisure time. What hobbies or activities bring you joy and satisfaction? Delving into your passions can provide hints towards potential majors that resonate with your interests.
Contemplate Your Talents: Reflect on what you're naturally skilled at. Are you an excellent communicator, a problem-solver, or an imaginative thinker? Your talents can steer you towards majors where you'll shine and feel self-assured.
Investigate Various Majors: Dedicate some time to investigate different majors and career trajectories. Examine the coursework, job prospects, and potential earnings for each major you're contemplating. Surveying your options can assist you in refining your selections.
Engage in Conversations: Connect with friends, family, teachers, or career advisors for counsel and direction. They might offer viewpoints or wisdom that you haven't thought of, and their support can be priceless as you steer through this decision.
Experiment with New Experiences: Don't hesitate to venture beyond your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Enroll in diverse classes, become part of clubs or groups, or engage in internships or volunteer work. You never know what you might stumble upon!
Believe in Yourself: In the end, have faith in your ability to make the right choice. Pay attention to your instincts and opt for the major that feels like the perfect match for you, even if it deviates from your initial plan. Your happiness and satisfaction are what truly matter.
Remember, it's perfectly normal to feel unsure – determining your major is a journey, and it's perfectly fine to take it slow. Be kind to yourself, remain receptive to new possibilities, and have faith that you'll discover the path that's destined for you. You can absolutely do this!
Discover Your Passions: Spend some time reflecting on what you love doing in your leisure time. What hobbies or activities bring you joy and satisfaction? Delving into your passions can provide hints towards potential majors that resonate with your interests.
Contemplate Your Talents: Reflect on what you're naturally skilled at. Are you an excellent communicator, a problem-solver, or an imaginative thinker? Your talents can steer you towards majors where you'll shine and feel self-assured.
Investigate Various Majors: Dedicate some time to investigate different majors and career trajectories. Examine the coursework, job prospects, and potential earnings for each major you're contemplating. Surveying your options can assist you in refining your selections.
Engage in Conversations: Connect with friends, family, teachers, or career advisors for counsel and direction. They might offer viewpoints or wisdom that you haven't thought of, and their support can be priceless as you steer through this decision.
Experiment with New Experiences: Don't hesitate to venture beyond your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Enroll in diverse classes, become part of clubs or groups, or engage in internships or volunteer work. You never know what you might stumble upon!
Believe in Yourself: In the end, have faith in your ability to make the right choice. Pay attention to your instincts and opt for the major that feels like the perfect match for you, even if it deviates from your initial plan. Your happiness and satisfaction are what truly matter.
Remember, it's perfectly normal to feel unsure – determining your major is a journey, and it's perfectly fine to take it slow. Be kind to yourself, remain receptive to new possibilities, and have faith that you'll discover the path that's destined for you. You can absolutely do this!
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
324
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi, Zaakirah, I don't know what stage of education you are in, but I agree with Arian that it is fine if your interests change with time and experience. There are free online quizzes you can take to help direct your research - see sample link below. If the results make sense to you, your next steps might be:
- do more research about the major, such as required courses and graduation requirements
- if you haven't already done so, take at least one course in that major
- research potential careers associated with that major to see if they interest you
- talk with your guidance counselor (if you are in high school) or academic advisors (if you are in college)
- talk with people in that major or from that department
If the career quiz results don't make sense, try another quiz, or try to analyze what doesn't feel right. That will give you information to direct your research.
Good luck!
US News Quiz - https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/college-major-quiz
College Board article - https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/plan-for-college/find-your-fit/choosing-right-major-for-you
- do more research about the major, such as required courses and graduation requirements
- if you haven't already done so, take at least one course in that major
- research potential careers associated with that major to see if they interest you
- talk with your guidance counselor (if you are in high school) or academic advisors (if you are in college)
- talk with people in that major or from that department
If the career quiz results don't make sense, try another quiz, or try to analyze what doesn't feel right. That will give you information to direct your research.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Ruztique Kelly
Marketing Copywriter
9
Answers
Baltimore, Maryland
Updated
Ruztique’s Answer
Hello there!
Deciding on a college major can indeed be challenging, particularly when our interests can fluctuate so rapidly. But remember, it's perfectly okay to feel a bit lost, especially as you're just starting college. Your freshman year is typically a period of general education courses that everyone is required to take. You're not yet fully plunged into your major-specific classes. This is your golden opportunity to explore a wide array of subjects and discover what truly ignites your passion. I myself switched my major 2-3 times and my minor more than 3 times before I was fully satisfied with my choice!
REMEMBER, YOU'VE GOT THIS! The clarity you seek will gradually unfold.
Deciding on a college major can indeed be challenging, particularly when our interests can fluctuate so rapidly. But remember, it's perfectly okay to feel a bit lost, especially as you're just starting college. Your freshman year is typically a period of general education courses that everyone is required to take. You're not yet fully plunged into your major-specific classes. This is your golden opportunity to explore a wide array of subjects and discover what truly ignites your passion. I myself switched my major 2-3 times and my minor more than 3 times before I was fully satisfied with my choice!
REMEMBER, YOU'VE GOT THIS! The clarity you seek will gradually unfold.
Jason J
Software Engineering
7
Answers
Bradenton, Florida
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hi Zaakirah, think about what you are passionate about. What do you enjoy doing? Remember, it is very common for this to change over time. However, if you can find a common thread between the things you find/found enjoyable, you have identified a trend and some great insight about yourself! Use this information to seek out a college major which most highly correlates with your passions. Good luck, it's a fun ride!