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When should I decide my collage major?
I'm a freshman in HS, so I still have a good 3 years before college, but I don't really have a clue what I want to study. I have a few ideas, but they're all in different fields and for different reasons. Also considering the fact that my major will impact which schools I should apply to, should I choose my major first and then apply to schools based on that or should I apply to schools & decide my major after?
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7 answers
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Dr. Kelly’s Answer
Looking back on my college years, I'd make sure to line up my studies with my career goals right from the start. I wouldn't get distracted by fancy program names, but instead, I'd take a close look at the main courses and graduation requirements of possible schools to make sure they match my job dreams.
Colleges often give majors catchy names to draw in students, but what really matters is the basic classes you'll take. For example, programs like emergency services might have different names like Emergency Management Studies, Emergency Response, Fire Science, Homeland Security, or Protective Studies. It's the same with areas like Criminal Justice, Protective Services, Security, Criminology, and Forensic Studies. They might have different names, but they often have similar classes at many schools.
So, here's my advice to future students: don't worry too much about where the school is or what the program is called. Instead, dig into the key classes each school offers. That way, you can make sure your education fits well with your career plans.
Colleges often give majors catchy names to draw in students, but what really matters is the basic classes you'll take. For example, programs like emergency services might have different names like Emergency Management Studies, Emergency Response, Fire Science, Homeland Security, or Protective Studies. It's the same with areas like Criminal Justice, Protective Services, Security, Criminology, and Forensic Studies. They might have different names, but they often have similar classes at many schools.
So, here's my advice to future students: don't worry too much about where the school is or what the program is called. Instead, dig into the key classes each school offers. That way, you can make sure your education fits well with your career plans.
Kelly, thank you!
Kristin
Updated
Melanie’s Answer
Hello! First, you should decide the major. You may apply to many schools, but if you do not know what your major will be, you'll not be focused in college. College takes time and a lot of money, so it is always sound advice to know the major you want to do before decide which schools you should apply. However, if you want to go to an specific school and you're open to different career paths, you can always look up their program offers and see what interests you. Hope this helps!
Melanie, thank you!
Kristin
Updated
Samuel’s Answer
What’s the rush? You have a few years to decide your major. If you’re passionate about a particular path you want to take, then that’s fine also. I would choose the school that’s best for you to achieve your goals. Also, one you ( and your family) can afford. Good luck and God bless you.
Thank you!
Kristin
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Here are some resources that can help with deciding your major!
https://whatcanidowiththismajor.com/
- This is a great website that helps you understand what different majors can do for you
https://www.onetonline.org/
This is a helpful website for exploring careers
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
This is basically the same website as above just displayed a little differently
https://www.cacareerzone.org/
this is for California students to explore careers
https://whatcanidowiththismajor.com/
- This is a great website that helps you understand what different majors can do for you
https://www.onetonline.org/
This is a helpful website for exploring careers
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
This is basically the same website as above just displayed a little differently
https://www.cacareerzone.org/
this is for California students to explore careers
Thank you, Megan!
Kristin
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
You have plenty of time! Join clubs, attend job fairs and explore the numerous options that are out there.
Even if you get to college and you aren't sure, you have time.
If you land on an answer early, that is great. If it takes some time, I promise you will be ok.
Even if you get to college and you aren't sure, you have time.
If you land on an answer early, that is great. If it takes some time, I promise you will be ok.
Thank you!
Kristin
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Firstly, you have to find out what careers you have interest. And, it is better to start thinking about it earlier.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and determine what you have interest
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musical artist, musician, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, financial analyst, banker, 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 counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers career 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, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and determine what you have interest
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musical artist, musician, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, financial analyst, banker, 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 counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers career 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!
Thank you for the advice, Rebecca.
Kristin
Updated
Bonnie’s Answer
Hello Kristin, embracing the concept of 'choice' can be a great advantage during your school years. However, it's equally important to stay receptive and explore the myriad of career opportunities out there. High Schools have evolved impressively in offering programs that align with high-demand career paths - consider enrolling in these classes to discover what truly captivates you. Remember, it's perfectly fine to feel uncertain about your ultimate choice during these transformative years. A significant number of us enter college or university with a preferred career in mind, only to find ourselves switching paths midway. So, maintain an open mindset and let your interests guide you. Wishing you all the best on your journey!