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What major should I choose if I don’t know what I want to do?
I’m interested in various things and very confused on which one I should pick because they all fall under different fields.
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14 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Yodenni,
Choosing a Major When Unsure
When faced with the decision of choosing a major in college, especially when you have varied interests and are unsure of what career path to pursue, it can be a challenging and overwhelming process. However, there are several strategies you can employ to help guide you towards making a decision that aligns with your interests, skills, and future goals.
1. Self-Reflection and Assessment
One of the first steps in choosing a major is to engage in self-reflection and assessment. Take some time to think about your strengths, weaknesses, interests, values, and goals. Consider what subjects or activities you excel in or enjoy the most. Reflect on what kind of work environment or career path would make you feel fulfilled and satisfied.
2. Explore Different Fields
Since you have various interests that fall under different fields, it might be beneficial to explore these fields further. Take introductory courses in different subjects to get a feel for what each field entails. Talk to professors, professionals, or career counselors in those fields to gain insights into potential career opportunities and job prospects.
3. Utilize Career Assessments
Career assessments can also be valuable tools in helping you identify potential majors that align with your interests and strengths. These assessments can provide insights into your personality traits, skills, and preferences, which can then be matched with suitable majors or career paths.
4. Consider Your Long-Term Goals
Think about your long-term goals and aspirations. Consider where you see yourself in the future and what kind of impact you want to make through your career choice. This long-term perspective can help guide your decision-making process when selecting a major.
5. Seek Guidance
Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from academic advisors, mentors, or professionals in the fields you are considering. They can provide valuable advice, share their experiences, and offer insights that may help clarify your decision-making process.
6. Keep an Open Mind
It’s important to keep an open mind during this decision-making process. Be willing to explore new opportunities and consider options that may not have initially been on your radar. Sometimes unexpected paths can lead to fulfilling careers.
In conclusion, choosing a major when you’re unsure of what you want to do requires thoughtful consideration, self-reflection, exploration of different fields, utilizing resources like career assessments, considering long-term goals, seeking guidance from others, and maintaining an open mind throughout the process.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The Princeton Review: The Princeton Review offers comprehensive resources on college majors, career exploration tools, and expert advice on choosing a major that suits individual interests and goals.
U.S. News & World Report - Education: U.S. News & World Report provides rankings of colleges and universities along with valuable insights into different majors and career paths available within higher education.
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE): NACE offers data-driven insights into emerging trends in the job market as well as information on how different majors align with industry demands and employment opportunities for graduates.
These sources were instrumental in providing accurate information on choosing a major when uncertain about one’s career path by offering expert advice, data-driven insights into job market trends related to various majors, as well as comprehensive resources for exploring college majors effectively.
GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
Choosing a Major When Unsure
When faced with the decision of choosing a major in college, especially when you have varied interests and are unsure of what career path to pursue, it can be a challenging and overwhelming process. However, there are several strategies you can employ to help guide you towards making a decision that aligns with your interests, skills, and future goals.
1. Self-Reflection and Assessment
One of the first steps in choosing a major is to engage in self-reflection and assessment. Take some time to think about your strengths, weaknesses, interests, values, and goals. Consider what subjects or activities you excel in or enjoy the most. Reflect on what kind of work environment or career path would make you feel fulfilled and satisfied.
2. Explore Different Fields
Since you have various interests that fall under different fields, it might be beneficial to explore these fields further. Take introductory courses in different subjects to get a feel for what each field entails. Talk to professors, professionals, or career counselors in those fields to gain insights into potential career opportunities and job prospects.
3. Utilize Career Assessments
Career assessments can also be valuable tools in helping you identify potential majors that align with your interests and strengths. These assessments can provide insights into your personality traits, skills, and preferences, which can then be matched with suitable majors or career paths.
4. Consider Your Long-Term Goals
Think about your long-term goals and aspirations. Consider where you see yourself in the future and what kind of impact you want to make through your career choice. This long-term perspective can help guide your decision-making process when selecting a major.
5. Seek Guidance
Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from academic advisors, mentors, or professionals in the fields you are considering. They can provide valuable advice, share their experiences, and offer insights that may help clarify your decision-making process.
6. Keep an Open Mind
It’s important to keep an open mind during this decision-making process. Be willing to explore new opportunities and consider options that may not have initially been on your radar. Sometimes unexpected paths can lead to fulfilling careers.
In conclusion, choosing a major when you’re unsure of what you want to do requires thoughtful consideration, self-reflection, exploration of different fields, utilizing resources like career assessments, considering long-term goals, seeking guidance from others, and maintaining an open mind throughout the process.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The Princeton Review: The Princeton Review offers comprehensive resources on college majors, career exploration tools, and expert advice on choosing a major that suits individual interests and goals.
U.S. News & World Report - Education: U.S. News & World Report provides rankings of colleges and universities along with valuable insights into different majors and career paths available within higher education.
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE): NACE offers data-driven insights into emerging trends in the job market as well as information on how different majors align with industry demands and employment opportunities for graduates.
These sources were instrumental in providing accurate information on choosing a major when uncertain about one’s career path by offering expert advice, data-driven insights into job market trends related to various majors, as well as comprehensive resources for exploring college majors effectively.
GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
Focus on a course that features a subject you excel at. It's always more enjoyable to learn about something you're naturally good at!
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Yodenni, I appreciate you reaching out to us. Don't fret, the concerns you're experiencing are common among students your age. What's impressive is that you've already identified the issue and are actively seeking solutions by connecting with us. That's commendable! This platform was specifically designed to assist students like yourself. As a counselor, I will provide you with a self-assessment. This evaluation will cover various areas such as mental aptitude, occupational interests, values, and more. The outcome of this assessment will enlighten you about your strengths and areas for improvement. It will guide you towards a well-informed career planning process. Furthermore, it will aid in identifying the top three potential career paths you might want to consider. Keep going, you're on the right track!
Visit a career counselor office and ask some career decision process.
Visit the library and read literature about occupational handbook.
Attend career guidance events in school and participate in the activity.
Interview people in the field that he wanted to pursue like medical doctors, IT experts, CPA etc.
Dino recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Yodenni, thank you for taking the initiative to contact us. There's no need to stress, your worries are common among students your age. It's commendable that you've recognized the issue and have taken steps to address it by reaching out to us. Well done! This platform was specifically designed to assist students like you. As a counselor, I will provide you with a self-assessment. This evaluation will cover various areas like mental capability, occupational interests, values, and more. The results will offer you insight into your strengths and areas for improvement. It will guide you towards a well-informed career planning process. Moreover, it will assist you in identifying the top three potential career paths that you might want to consider. Keep going, you're on the right track!
Visit your counselor or career counselor and ask assistance for your career planning.
Read literature on occupational handbook and find out your career interests.
Attend career guidance activities in your school and actively participate.
Identify your top 3 career interests and interview people in the field and learn from them.
Dino recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Deborah’s Answer
If you're undecided on your major, consider starting with a broad field like liberal arts or general studies. These programs offer a range of courses that can help you explore various subjects and interests. Additionally, seek out internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time jobs in different fields to gain practical experience and insight into potential career paths. Take advantage of career counseling services and academic advisors who can provide guidance and help you make an informed decision.
Updated
Madeline’s Answer
During the initial two years of my college journey, I remained an undeclared major. My institution offered an "exploratory" program that was centered around fostering career growth and allowed us to "sample" a new major each week. To further assist in my self-discovery, I had regular weekly meetings with my advisor and participated in classes specifically designed for self-exploration. This process of identifying my strengths and weaknesses not only challenged me but also guided me towards realizing my true calling. Despite feeling the societal pressure to declare a major, I allowed myself the necessary time to select the right path that resonated with my aspirations. I understood that everyone's journey is unique, and this realization helped me concentrate on my personal growth and choose what was truly best for me.
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
This is a common experience for many students, and rest assured, there are plenty of solutions available. While some may suggest starting with general education courses, especially when undecided, this can sometimes delay the main goal. Are you already enrolled in a school, or are you still deciding? If you have a school in mind, whether due to its location, affordability, or other factors, delve into the graduation requirements for each degree program that piques your interest and discover which courses excite you the most.
-You may find that one program stands out more than the others.
-Alternatively, you could choose one subject as your major and another as your minor, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
-Another less traditional option is to check if your school offers a liberal arts AS or BS program. Some students find success in completing a degree that demonstrates they've earned 60 or 121 credits from a variety of classes without a designated major. This approach allows students to explore their passions without any constraints.
-You may find that one program stands out more than the others.
-Alternatively, you could choose one subject as your major and another as your minor, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
-Another less traditional option is to check if your school offers a liberal arts AS or BS program. Some students find success in completing a degree that demonstrates they've earned 60 or 121 credits from a variety of classes without a designated major. This approach allows students to explore their passions without any constraints.
Updated
Gina’s Answer
If you're unsure about what major to choose because you have diverse interests, here are a few suggestions to help you make a decision:
1. Explore General Education Courses: Take advantage of your university's general education requirements to explore different subjects. This will give you a chance to sample various fields and help you identify areas that resonate with you.
2. Seek Guidance: Talk to academic advisors, professors, and professionals in fields you're interested in. They can provide insights into different majors, career paths, and help you understand the skills and knowledge required for each field.
3. Consider Your Passions and Strengths: Reflect on your interests, hobbies, and activities that bring you joy. Think about the subjects you excel in or find most engaging. Identifying your passions and strengths can guide you towards a major that aligns with your natural inclinations.
4. Research Career Opportunities: Explore the job market and potential career paths associated with different majors. Consider the demand, growth prospects, and earning potential in each field. This information can help you make an informed decision based on your long-term goals.
5. Take Introductory Courses: Enroll in introductory courses in various fields to get a taste of what each major entails. This hands-on experience can help you gauge your interest and aptitude for different subjects.
6. Consider Interdisciplinary Programs: If your interests span multiple fields, consider interdisciplinary programs that allow you to combine different subjects. These programs can provide a broader education and open up unique career opportunities.
7. Embrace Flexibility: Remember that your choice of major does not necessarily determine your entire career path. Many professionals end up working in fields unrelated to their majors. Focus on developing transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability, which can be valuable in any career.
8. Take Your Time: It's okay to be uncertain and take time to explore your options. Don't rush into a decision. Consider taking a gap year or starting with a general studies program to gain more clarity before committing to a specific major.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a major that aligns with your interests, values, and long-term goals. Remember that your education is a foundation for your future, and it's okay to be flexible and adapt as you discover new passions and interests along the way.
1. Explore General Education Courses: Take advantage of your university's general education requirements to explore different subjects. This will give you a chance to sample various fields and help you identify areas that resonate with you.
2. Seek Guidance: Talk to academic advisors, professors, and professionals in fields you're interested in. They can provide insights into different majors, career paths, and help you understand the skills and knowledge required for each field.
3. Consider Your Passions and Strengths: Reflect on your interests, hobbies, and activities that bring you joy. Think about the subjects you excel in or find most engaging. Identifying your passions and strengths can guide you towards a major that aligns with your natural inclinations.
4. Research Career Opportunities: Explore the job market and potential career paths associated with different majors. Consider the demand, growth prospects, and earning potential in each field. This information can help you make an informed decision based on your long-term goals.
5. Take Introductory Courses: Enroll in introductory courses in various fields to get a taste of what each major entails. This hands-on experience can help you gauge your interest and aptitude for different subjects.
6. Consider Interdisciplinary Programs: If your interests span multiple fields, consider interdisciplinary programs that allow you to combine different subjects. These programs can provide a broader education and open up unique career opportunities.
7. Embrace Flexibility: Remember that your choice of major does not necessarily determine your entire career path. Many professionals end up working in fields unrelated to their majors. Focus on developing transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability, which can be valuable in any career.
8. Take Your Time: It's okay to be uncertain and take time to explore your options. Don't rush into a decision. Consider taking a gap year or starting with a general studies program to gain more clarity before committing to a specific major.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a major that aligns with your interests, values, and long-term goals. Remember that your education is a foundation for your future, and it's okay to be flexible and adapt as you discover new passions and interests along the way.
Updated
Julien’s Answer
Dear Yodenni,
Deciding on a major is indeed a significant step, as it sets the course for your long-term academic journey. However, the beauty of being undecided is that your first two years of undergraduate studies are typically filled with general education courses across various subjects. This is a golden opportunity for you to explore different fields that may spark your interest.
So, make the most of this chance. Delve into a variety of subjects to discover what truly intrigues you. If you're already in university, don't hesitate to visit the career center. Engage in conversations with counselors who can offer you a wealth of resources. This will enable you to explore potential career paths related to your areas of interest.
Remember, it's perfectly normal to feel a little overwhelmed. But with thorough research and the right guidance, you'll find it much easier to identify the path that aligns with your long-term goals.
Wishing you the best of luck
Deciding on a major is indeed a significant step, as it sets the course for your long-term academic journey. However, the beauty of being undecided is that your first two years of undergraduate studies are typically filled with general education courses across various subjects. This is a golden opportunity for you to explore different fields that may spark your interest.
So, make the most of this chance. Delve into a variety of subjects to discover what truly intrigues you. If you're already in university, don't hesitate to visit the career center. Engage in conversations with counselors who can offer you a wealth of resources. This will enable you to explore potential career paths related to your areas of interest.
Remember, it's perfectly normal to feel a little overwhelmed. But with thorough research and the right guidance, you'll find it much easier to identify the path that aligns with your long-term goals.
Wishing you the best of luck
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
There are general studies degrees which you can explore. I obtained an Associates Degree in "Letters, Arts & Sciences" which was a fancy way to say "you don't know what you want to do, so do a little bit of everything!". I was able to explore a fair amount and it allowed me to do hyper focus on classes for my major.
When in doubt, you can also stay "undecided" and knockout your general studies. You have time :)
When in doubt, you can also stay "undecided" and knockout your general studies. You have time :)
Updated
Akerke’s Answer
Hello Yodenni🤗
In the modern world, there are an endless variety of different professions on the labor market. In order to make a choice, you have to look for a lot of information about the advantages and disadvantages of a particular specialty.
In order to understand how to decide on a profession, you need to figure out what you like. But what to do if you find it difficult to decide? What to do if you don't know how to do anything?
Everything is quite simple. Now, there are many free courses and lessons that will introduce you to a particular specialty. You need to decide in which area there is something interesting for you.
If there are no thoughts in your head, then we recommend sitting down, writing a list of free courses that you found on the Internet, and determining in what order you want to watch them. Already at this stage, the subconscious will tell you which profession to choose and which ones will go to the very end of the list.
Once the list is ready, you can start browsing. Be careful, write down any little details, make a list of the pros and cons of each specialty. Don’t forget to check the demand for your profession on the labor market. We assure you that while you watch the video, your head will begin to clear up, and the thought of your field of activity will no longer seem so scary. All this is needed in order to make the right choice.
In the modern world, there are an endless variety of different professions on the labor market. In order to make a choice, you have to look for a lot of information about the advantages and disadvantages of a particular specialty.
In order to understand how to decide on a profession, you need to figure out what you like. But what to do if you find it difficult to decide? What to do if you don't know how to do anything?
Everything is quite simple. Now, there are many free courses and lessons that will introduce you to a particular specialty. You need to decide in which area there is something interesting for you.
If there are no thoughts in your head, then we recommend sitting down, writing a list of free courses that you found on the Internet, and determining in what order you want to watch them. Already at this stage, the subconscious will tell you which profession to choose and which ones will go to the very end of the list.
Once the list is ready, you can start browsing. Be careful, write down any little details, make a list of the pros and cons of each specialty. Don’t forget to check the demand for your profession on the labor market. We assure you that while you watch the video, your head will begin to clear up, and the thought of your field of activity will no longer seem so scary. All this is needed in order to make the right choice.
Updated
Will’s Answer
Hi Yodenni,
You're not alone, as this is a very common challenge facing current and prospective college students. I recommend making a list of different majors/careers you are interested in exploring, and then look at the different course offerings available at your school. Try to sign up for as many introductory and general education courses as possible! Your first couple years in college are a perfect opportunity to take courses in several different areas as you try to identify what to major in. It's not unusual to be "Undecided" or change your major multiple times over the duration of your college career. Many people don't finalize their major until junior or senior year.
It's also beneficial to have discussions with your school counselor / academic advisor, as they can offer more tailored guidance for the specific programs you may be interested in. Additionally, don't be afraid to reach out to any of your friends, family, classmates, professors, etc. who are studying/working in these different areas. It's always beneficial to hear other people's perspectives and experiences.
One last thing to keep in mind is your college major does not necessarily dictate what you'll do after graduation. For example, I was a music major but started working in accounting/consulting to begin my professional career. Don't be afraid to branch out and try new things as the opportunities arise!
Whether you’re starting college or finishing up your studies, Access Your Potential Career Readiness and Digital Skills curricula are available to help you grow and discover what you want for your career. Visit http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
You're not alone, as this is a very common challenge facing current and prospective college students. I recommend making a list of different majors/careers you are interested in exploring, and then look at the different course offerings available at your school. Try to sign up for as many introductory and general education courses as possible! Your first couple years in college are a perfect opportunity to take courses in several different areas as you try to identify what to major in. It's not unusual to be "Undecided" or change your major multiple times over the duration of your college career. Many people don't finalize their major until junior or senior year.
It's also beneficial to have discussions with your school counselor / academic advisor, as they can offer more tailored guidance for the specific programs you may be interested in. Additionally, don't be afraid to reach out to any of your friends, family, classmates, professors, etc. who are studying/working in these different areas. It's always beneficial to hear other people's perspectives and experiences.
One last thing to keep in mind is your college major does not necessarily dictate what you'll do after graduation. For example, I was a music major but started working in accounting/consulting to begin my professional career. Don't be afraid to branch out and try new things as the opportunities arise!
Will recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Here are some resources that might be helpful to you when deciding!
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://careerzone.labor.ny.gov/jz/views/careerzone/index.jsf
This website is specifically for helping New York students explore options
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://careerzone.labor.ny.gov/jz/views/careerzone/index.jsf
This website is specifically for helping New York students explore options
Updated
Enise’s Answer
Hello Yodenni,
If you have not decided which future job fits and suits you yet, you should have a list of your career choices. Yet you should follow these steps in order to complete;
1. Ask yourself what you are interested in, and which was/were your favorite(s) when you had previously experienced any extracurricular activities.
2. Create a list of jobs
3. Eliminate jobs that are not suited
4. If you have 2 or 3 options left, surf the internet, and read the job descriptions and requirements for the position.
Imagine how much you would have paid for a position, think about the benefits of the job, and then decide what you would do with the rest.
It is, by all means, easy to say, yet trust me you can do better than nothing else.
You can make a difference in your own career.
If this did not help, please seek help from professionals, your friends and family.
If you have not decided which future job fits and suits you yet, you should have a list of your career choices. Yet you should follow these steps in order to complete;
1. Ask yourself what you are interested in, and which was/were your favorite(s) when you had previously experienced any extracurricular activities.
2. Create a list of jobs
3. Eliminate jobs that are not suited
4. If you have 2 or 3 options left, surf the internet, and read the job descriptions and requirements for the position.
Imagine how much you would have paid for a position, think about the benefits of the job, and then decide what you would do with the rest.
It is, by all means, easy to say, yet trust me you can do better than nothing else.
You can make a difference in your own career.
If this did not help, please seek help from professionals, your friends and family.