9 answers
Camilla
Student
1
Question
Updated
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Should I switch to a business degree? Or something entirely different? I don't know what to do. Help!
Hello! Soon-to-be college freshman here. I need honest advice. Embarassingly, I am still a little bit confused on what I want to do.
Recently, I was considering on changing my major to Business Administration (thankfully, the first day of classes haven't started yet, so changing majors probably won't be that much of a problem compared to the students who decide to switch majors in the middle of the year). I selected BS Psychology when I did my application to my community college.
Why I am considering a business degree:
- I have an entrepreneural spirit. I love making sales, crunching numbers, budgeting, being independent, marketing/creating marketing material, packing items for shipment, interacting with people, the entire process of it. I love the idea of making a living from my own hard work.
- Past experiences. I was in charge of an entrepreneurship project in high school. We had to set up our own physical store, and also promote it; we sold baked goodies. I loved it! It doesn't mean much, but I got the highest mark on my report card in Entrepreneurship. I also currently have an online shop where I sell clothes and have had great success with it. I also setup garage sales by myself here and there. I am able to earn and spend my own money.
- I would love to avoid working for somebody in the future (at least in the long run). I want to start my own small business/es. An online business, a café, a salon, etc. I have many ideas. I especially love the creative side of business.
I also want to be a professional photographer/artist on the side. It's my true passion. However, advice on the internet all seem to suggest avoiding spending 4 years on a photography degree—just master the craft and make it your side hustle until the time & money is right. Besides, photographers don't make that much. That's what they say. So, I am thinking of freelancing as a side hustle, earning a photography certificate, and maybe start a photo studio business in the future.
- I want many career options (I am okay with working in PR, HR or Marketing. Not my ideal dream, but.)
- I do well under pressure
- I love being a leader
However,
- People are telling me I can do any of the above without a business degree. Well, what do I do instead, then?
- Apparently, the classes are boring?
- Business majors get a bad rep. I admit that I am slightly worried about being perceived, although I know I shouldn't be.
- The internet says business administration is too broad, and that I should do Finance/Marketing/MIS/Economics, etc. instead (something focused on one subject)
- In general, it's "not a good major"
The reason why I selected BS Psychology in the first place is because I am interested in the brain and human behavior. I was drawn to a rewarding, intriguing career. Arguably, psych is more interesting than business, but I know I wouldn't have many opportunities with a Bachelor's in Psych without getting a Master's. And I am not thinking of getting a master's, to be honest. So business seems to be more a realistic option.
With this in mind, should I minor in Psychology when I transfer from community college? Is that possible? I read that a minor in Psychology can give me a leg up as a business major.
Should I switch to a business degree? What do I do?
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9 answers
Kanwal Naz
7
Answers
Lincoln, Nebraska
Updated
Kanwal’s Answer
Camilla, you sound like a smart individual who has the potential to succeed in either field. I hope my answers to your questions help guide you to your future career. Even, if you end up changing what you decide to do you still have the opportunity to change your career in your lifetime. You asked if you should switch to a business degree or something entirely different. Here is what I can do to help:
Your reasons for considering a business degree is great because you prove dthat you can potentially stand your own in the field. I think that if you have the opportunity to open your own business you should do it because companies do weird things and are inconsiderate. Your hardwork and effort will show in your business.
I don't think it does not mean much to get the highest score in your Entrepreneurship class. That's amazing!
Don't be afraid to make your side interests like psychology and photography into hobbies. I feel that your end goal is to open as many opportunities as you can. I think a business major can do that for you. There are different job opportunities in the business field such as PR, HR, and Marketing.
One stigma about business majors is that all they care about money. So, that might be what they are referring to and the pay. You can care about money, but also, make a positive impact too.
Don't put too much pressure on yourself. Pick something you can thrive in!
Your reasons for considering a business degree is great because you prove dthat you can potentially stand your own in the field. I think that if you have the opportunity to open your own business you should do it because companies do weird things and are inconsiderate. Your hardwork and effort will show in your business.
I don't think it does not mean much to get the highest score in your Entrepreneurship class. That's amazing!
Don't be afraid to make your side interests like psychology and photography into hobbies. I feel that your end goal is to open as many opportunities as you can. I think a business major can do that for you. There are different job opportunities in the business field such as PR, HR, and Marketing.
One stigma about business majors is that all they care about money. So, that might be what they are referring to and the pay. You can care about money, but also, make a positive impact too.
Don't put too much pressure on yourself. Pick something you can thrive in!
Poonam Modi
Student and Intern
1
Answer
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Poonam’s Answer
Hi Camilla,
Sounds like you have done your research. As a business major myself, it is probably one of the best decisions I have made in my college career. Like you, I was considering psychology or another science-y major, but ultimately, ended up going with business and here is why:
Having a business degree under your belt can open so many doors for you. The skills you'll learn--marketing, finance, management--are directly applicable to ANY field, no matter where you'll end up. Funny enough, I have friends who majored in something else and once they got a full-time job at big corporations, they struggled with basic business concepts because that is just something that was not covered in their curriculum. Because of this, they had to spend more time catching up vs. a business major who is already familiar.
If you're fascinated by psychology, embrace that and consider how you can integrate this interest within your business career. For example, consumer behavior, market research, and organizational behavior are areas that are crucial in the realm of being a business major and ALSO where psychology is highly relevant. I agree, majors like Psychology often require advanced degrees for a "successful" career path. If you're not planning on pursuing a master's, a business degree might offer more career opportunities with less amount of school years. One more thing, having a minor in Psychology could also be an option. It allows you to study a subject you're passionate about while also keeping your career options broad.
Switching to a business degree seems to align well with your entrepreneurial ambitions and practical experiences. Pairing it with a minor in psychology and keeping your passion for photography as a side hustle sounds like a balanced approach. Ultimately, choose the path that feels right for you and aligns with your long-term goals. Don’t be afraid to take the leap if you feel business is where your heart and mind are leading you. Sometimes you just have to do it and it always ends up working out! Good luck :)
Sounds like you have done your research. As a business major myself, it is probably one of the best decisions I have made in my college career. Like you, I was considering psychology or another science-y major, but ultimately, ended up going with business and here is why:
Having a business degree under your belt can open so many doors for you. The skills you'll learn--marketing, finance, management--are directly applicable to ANY field, no matter where you'll end up. Funny enough, I have friends who majored in something else and once they got a full-time job at big corporations, they struggled with basic business concepts because that is just something that was not covered in their curriculum. Because of this, they had to spend more time catching up vs. a business major who is already familiar.
If you're fascinated by psychology, embrace that and consider how you can integrate this interest within your business career. For example, consumer behavior, market research, and organizational behavior are areas that are crucial in the realm of being a business major and ALSO where psychology is highly relevant. I agree, majors like Psychology often require advanced degrees for a "successful" career path. If you're not planning on pursuing a master's, a business degree might offer more career opportunities with less amount of school years. One more thing, having a minor in Psychology could also be an option. It allows you to study a subject you're passionate about while also keeping your career options broad.
Switching to a business degree seems to align well with your entrepreneurial ambitions and practical experiences. Pairing it with a minor in psychology and keeping your passion for photography as a side hustle sounds like a balanced approach. Ultimately, choose the path that feels right for you and aligns with your long-term goals. Don’t be afraid to take the leap if you feel business is where your heart and mind are leading you. Sometimes you just have to do it and it always ends up working out! Good luck :)
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
472
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
You're brimming with interests and talents, which is fantastic! Here are some uplifting pointers to steer your decision-making process:
1. **Venture into Various Fields**: Think about delving into diverse majors and professions through internships, informational dialogues, or job shadowing. This will offer you a glimpse into multiple sectors, helping you identify what resonates most with your aspirations and interests.
2. **Think About a Double Major or Minor**: If business and psychology both ignite your passion, why not consider a double major or a minor in psychology? This could equip you with a comprehensive set of skills and give you an edge in the employment arena.
3. **Ponder Over Long-Term Aspirations**: Take a moment to reflect on your long-term career objectives and how different majors could facilitate achieving them. If launching your own business is on your radar, a business degree could arm you with invaluable expertise in areas such as marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.
4. **Nurture Your Passion**: Remember to keep your love for photography and art alive, even if it's a side pursuit. You can consistently hone your skills and explore opportunities in these fields while earning a degree in business or another discipline.
5. **Solicit Guidance**: Engage in conversations with academic advisors, career counselors, and professionals in your areas of interest to amass more information and advice. They can provide insights and direction customized to your unique circumstances and objectives.
In the end, the choice to switch to a business degree or explore another avenue is a personal one, and should resonate with your interests, strengths, and dreams. Take your time, explore your options, gather knowledge, and make a well-informed decision that suits you best.
1. **Venture into Various Fields**: Think about delving into diverse majors and professions through internships, informational dialogues, or job shadowing. This will offer you a glimpse into multiple sectors, helping you identify what resonates most with your aspirations and interests.
2. **Think About a Double Major or Minor**: If business and psychology both ignite your passion, why not consider a double major or a minor in psychology? This could equip you with a comprehensive set of skills and give you an edge in the employment arena.
3. **Ponder Over Long-Term Aspirations**: Take a moment to reflect on your long-term career objectives and how different majors could facilitate achieving them. If launching your own business is on your radar, a business degree could arm you with invaluable expertise in areas such as marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.
4. **Nurture Your Passion**: Remember to keep your love for photography and art alive, even if it's a side pursuit. You can consistently hone your skills and explore opportunities in these fields while earning a degree in business or another discipline.
5. **Solicit Guidance**: Engage in conversations with academic advisors, career counselors, and professionals in your areas of interest to amass more information and advice. They can provide insights and direction customized to your unique circumstances and objectives.
In the end, the choice to switch to a business degree or explore another avenue is a personal one, and should resonate with your interests, strengths, and dreams. Take your time, explore your options, gather knowledge, and make a well-informed decision that suits you best.
Violaine Gonzalez
Senior Associate
176
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Violaine’s Answer
Hello Camilla,
Deciding on a degree path is a significant step, and it's absolutely okay to feel a bit unsure about which way to go. Here are some friendly tips to guide you in making your decision:
1. Reflect on what you love and excel at: Think about the subjects or activities that light you up and where your talents truly shine. Consider the career paths that could align with these passions and strengths.
2. Explore various degree options: Dive into the curriculum and career possibilities associated with business degrees, as well as any other fields that catch your interest. Investigate the job market and future growth potential in each area.
3. Ponder your long-term aspirations: Visualize your future self and the lifestyle you desire. Will a business degree pave the way to achieving this vision, or should you consider other paths?
4. Seek wisdom from others: Engage in conversations with professors, career advisors, professionals from diverse fields, and individuals who have pursued business degrees or other degrees that intrigue you. Their experiences and insights can offer invaluable viewpoints.
5. Take a breather: Don't feel pressured to make a hasty decision. It's perfectly fine to take a while to explore various options and gather all the necessary information before settling on a specific degree path.
Remember, the final decision should resonate with you and align with your personal goals and dreams. Trust your instincts, and know that it's perfectly okay to pivot if you stumble upon a new passion or interest along the way.
Deciding on a degree path is a significant step, and it's absolutely okay to feel a bit unsure about which way to go. Here are some friendly tips to guide you in making your decision:
1. Reflect on what you love and excel at: Think about the subjects or activities that light you up and where your talents truly shine. Consider the career paths that could align with these passions and strengths.
2. Explore various degree options: Dive into the curriculum and career possibilities associated with business degrees, as well as any other fields that catch your interest. Investigate the job market and future growth potential in each area.
3. Ponder your long-term aspirations: Visualize your future self and the lifestyle you desire. Will a business degree pave the way to achieving this vision, or should you consider other paths?
4. Seek wisdom from others: Engage in conversations with professors, career advisors, professionals from diverse fields, and individuals who have pursued business degrees or other degrees that intrigue you. Their experiences and insights can offer invaluable viewpoints.
5. Take a breather: Don't feel pressured to make a hasty decision. It's perfectly fine to take a while to explore various options and gather all the necessary information before settling on a specific degree path.
Remember, the final decision should resonate with you and align with your personal goals and dreams. Trust your instincts, and know that it's perfectly okay to pivot if you stumble upon a new passion or interest along the way.
Ethan Lutz
Account Manager at a Technology Company
2
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Ethan’s Answer
Hi Camilla,
Looks like you already have received a number of great answers here. I graduated from college with my BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration). My one added note is that regardless of which major you choose, try to get involved with some extracurriculars associated with the business school at your college. During my Business Administration major, the vast majority of classes were finance, accounting, marketing, and business strategy (all classes that prepare you to be an employee at an existing company), with few options for entrepreneurship classes. It seems like entrepreneurship is a goal of yours regardless of your major, so I'd take a look at what club opportunities exist at your school that have some opportunities. It can also be fun to collaborate with other students and brainstorm different business ideas in the guidelines of an extracurricular.
Looks like you already have received a number of great answers here. I graduated from college with my BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration). My one added note is that regardless of which major you choose, try to get involved with some extracurriculars associated with the business school at your college. During my Business Administration major, the vast majority of classes were finance, accounting, marketing, and business strategy (all classes that prepare you to be an employee at an existing company), with few options for entrepreneurship classes. It seems like entrepreneurship is a goal of yours regardless of your major, so I'd take a look at what club opportunities exist at your school that have some opportunities. It can also be fun to collaborate with other students and brainstorm different business ideas in the guidelines of an extracurricular.
Megan Ludwig
Business Development
4
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Hello Camilla!
In today's business environment, your major doesn't necessarily dictate your future. It's crucial to choose a major that genuinely piques your interest - if that's Psychology, then go for it! My own major in Human Development and Family Studies significantly boosted my communication skills, which are vital in my current job. I also gained valuable experience and insight by working at various places during college, helping me discover my true passion. You can consider supplementing your major with business courses, allowing you to explore different fields and identify what truly resonates with you. Remember, your major is not a life sentence, it's a stepping stone. So, don't stress too much about it - you'll find your perfect fit!
In today's business environment, your major doesn't necessarily dictate your future. It's crucial to choose a major that genuinely piques your interest - if that's Psychology, then go for it! My own major in Human Development and Family Studies significantly boosted my communication skills, which are vital in my current job. I also gained valuable experience and insight by working at various places during college, helping me discover my true passion. You can consider supplementing your major with business courses, allowing you to explore different fields and identify what truly resonates with you. Remember, your major is not a life sentence, it's a stepping stone. So, don't stress too much about it - you'll find your perfect fit!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Camilla,
I'm thrilled to inform you that I've completed my Bachelor of Business degree with a major in Finance and a minor in Communications. Following this, I've also earned a Master of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Information Technology from a prestigious institution in our vicinity.
May you be blessed abundantly,
JC.
I'm thrilled to inform you that I've completed my Bachelor of Business degree with a major in Finance and a minor in Communications. Following this, I've also earned a Master of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Information Technology from a prestigious institution in our vicinity.
May you be blessed abundantly,
JC.
Allen Kirby
Expert Member of Technical Staff
5
Answers
Canton, Georgia
Updated
Allen’s Answer
Hi Camilla! I agree with Michelle. A business degree will serve you much better based on your stated goals and passions. It will also give you a good base no matter what profession you ultimately decide to enter. If you do decide to be an entrepreneur I suggest getting a MBA at some point.
Keep psychology as a hobby. Take some classes if it interests you or look at a minor or possibly a double major. But it doesn't sound like you'd be happy pursuing a psychology career at this point. If that changes then by all means look at a psychology degree.
Good Luck!
Keep psychology as a hobby. Take some classes if it interests you or look at a minor or possibly a double major. But it doesn't sound like you'd be happy pursuing a psychology career at this point. If that changes then by all means look at a psychology degree.
Good Luck!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1914
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Camilla !
I will begin by saying that you do not seem confused at all and seem to be clear in your career plans and you are someone who knows what you like. I would happily give some advice to you for consideration. My advice is to forget majoring in Psychology because although very appealing, it is intense for a major. I would suggest majoring in Business Administration since you want to develop your own businesses. This would greatly help you and you should go with your heart and what would benefit you for your career. The degree would also lead you into a good first job to get the experience you will need to hone your business skills for your own endeavors.
As a business major, you will learn so much about advertising, business models, management and promotions and if your college offers it, take a business psychology course. In college I took one course in business psychology and it was beneficial on every project or employment I ever worked on. Yes, people have their opinions about what is boring to them, but a Business major could be very exciting for you as you have already experienced the positive outcomes of being involved with sales. You need to go with your own opinions and interests.
It's true that you don't need a degree in Photography. Photography will greatly help you in business as well as everyday life, though, so I advise continuing with learning photography and consider it one of the many skills you can use within a business setting.
A degree in Psychology would not give you a leg up in business. Like I mentioned, taking a business psychology course within your Business major would be beneficial. You can always take an introduction to psychology as a general education requirement and take some online courses at your leisure, but a degree in psychology when you're pursuing business would maybe be bypassed by potential employers in favor for applicants that have some type of business degree. An employer may really wonder why someone with a Psychology Degree is applying for a business job and all of the other applicants have degrees in business. You can always read books about specific human behavior and the brain on your own. You would be expected to dedicate your studies to intense technique, theory and lab work which you would not be doing on a job in business. Again, go with a Business major.
The elements that will give you a leg up in the business world will be your communication skills, creativity, knowledge of a variety of types of businesses, critical thinking skills and very strong presentational skills which a degree in psychology would not provide focused training for. If I were an employer, I would really wonder why someone with a degree in Psychology was applying to be my Advertising Director or my Marketing Manager. Your college experience should prepare you for your career. Taking a few psychology courses, the correct ones, always helps everyone in every career and in everyday life, but some of them can be intense and assume you already have knowledge of several aspects of human behavior. The business psychology course you should take should be from the Business Department, not the Psychology Department. From someone who has taken both, I advise this first hand.
Also, do not let others form your opinion or take away your zest for business. You seem to really enjoy business, so much so that you have aspirations of one day setting up your own company and services. Build upon that and allow others their opinions, but what seems boring to one person is another person's success and enjoyment. Would you believe that as a young beginning student in the late 1970's, I thought Computer Science was so boring and couldn't understand why that major was so crowded. That was my unknowing opinion. So many times when people don't know about a subject or a career, they just think, since they're not interested in it, that it's boring to them. It has no validity for your goals, though. You must follow your plans, preferences and goals.
So, Camilla, I advise majoring in Business Administration with possibly a minor in Communication Studies and leave the Psychology for general ed requirements or as an elective. Continue to expand your ability with Photography and do indeed obtain that certification in it as you've mentioned. Your plans sound great and you seem very proactive so I think that you will be very happy in success ! I wish you all the best !
I will begin by saying that you do not seem confused at all and seem to be clear in your career plans and you are someone who knows what you like. I would happily give some advice to you for consideration. My advice is to forget majoring in Psychology because although very appealing, it is intense for a major. I would suggest majoring in Business Administration since you want to develop your own businesses. This would greatly help you and you should go with your heart and what would benefit you for your career. The degree would also lead you into a good first job to get the experience you will need to hone your business skills for your own endeavors.
As a business major, you will learn so much about advertising, business models, management and promotions and if your college offers it, take a business psychology course. In college I took one course in business psychology and it was beneficial on every project or employment I ever worked on. Yes, people have their opinions about what is boring to them, but a Business major could be very exciting for you as you have already experienced the positive outcomes of being involved with sales. You need to go with your own opinions and interests.
It's true that you don't need a degree in Photography. Photography will greatly help you in business as well as everyday life, though, so I advise continuing with learning photography and consider it one of the many skills you can use within a business setting.
A degree in Psychology would not give you a leg up in business. Like I mentioned, taking a business psychology course within your Business major would be beneficial. You can always take an introduction to psychology as a general education requirement and take some online courses at your leisure, but a degree in psychology when you're pursuing business would maybe be bypassed by potential employers in favor for applicants that have some type of business degree. An employer may really wonder why someone with a Psychology Degree is applying for a business job and all of the other applicants have degrees in business. You can always read books about specific human behavior and the brain on your own. You would be expected to dedicate your studies to intense technique, theory and lab work which you would not be doing on a job in business. Again, go with a Business major.
The elements that will give you a leg up in the business world will be your communication skills, creativity, knowledge of a variety of types of businesses, critical thinking skills and very strong presentational skills which a degree in psychology would not provide focused training for. If I were an employer, I would really wonder why someone with a degree in Psychology was applying to be my Advertising Director or my Marketing Manager. Your college experience should prepare you for your career. Taking a few psychology courses, the correct ones, always helps everyone in every career and in everyday life, but some of them can be intense and assume you already have knowledge of several aspects of human behavior. The business psychology course you should take should be from the Business Department, not the Psychology Department. From someone who has taken both, I advise this first hand.
Also, do not let others form your opinion or take away your zest for business. You seem to really enjoy business, so much so that you have aspirations of one day setting up your own company and services. Build upon that and allow others their opinions, but what seems boring to one person is another person's success and enjoyment. Would you believe that as a young beginning student in the late 1970's, I thought Computer Science was so boring and couldn't understand why that major was so crowded. That was my unknowing opinion. So many times when people don't know about a subject or a career, they just think, since they're not interested in it, that it's boring to them. It has no validity for your goals, though. You must follow your plans, preferences and goals.
So, Camilla, I advise majoring in Business Administration with possibly a minor in Communication Studies and leave the Psychology for general ed requirements or as an elective. Continue to expand your ability with Photography and do indeed obtain that certification in it as you've mentioned. Your plans sound great and you seem very proactive so I think that you will be very happy in success ! I wish you all the best !