2 answers
Hannah
Student
Lynn, Massachusetts
1
Question
Asked
613 views
How many people switch majors in college ?
Is it common to be incorrect about what major you think you will stick with? Also, when people do switch majors, is it usually to a similar field? Wondering for the future!
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2 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1494
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Hannah the earlier you decide to switch college majors, the easier it is to catch up on your coursework. Often you don’t even begin to take major-related courses until your junior year, so if you know you want to change your declared major during your sophomore year, you have plenty of time to make that decision. If you are choosing a new major that is similar to your old one, it’s also possible that some of your completed courses may actually be prerequisites or electives for your new degree.
MEET WITH YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR
Consider meeting with an academic advisor. They hold a wealth of knowledge about different majors and can provide you with an understanding of what to expect in the new major you're eyeing. They can also guide you on how the transition might affect your graduation timeline and what financial implications to anticipate. Investigate the job opportunities that come with the new major. A bit of research into potential career paths, job market demand, and estimated earnings can give you a clearer picture of what the future may hold. Are there ample job opportunities in the field? What kind of salary can you expect, especially in the first year out of college? It's also wise to consider how your GPA might be affected. Taking time to explore these aspects will arm you with the necessary information to make a decision that you won't regret down the line.
CONSIDER INTERNSHIPS
Also what can be very helpful is an internship may be a determining whether switching majors is for you. Internships are pre-work conditions and you can best assess your career in a major you’re pursuing based on your experience with an internship. When you put what you are learning into practice in the real world, how does it truly make you feel? How good are you at applying your skills to real life opportunities? Getting career experience in your field of study is the best way to assess whether or not what you were studying is the proper fit for you. After all, forcing yourself to work a job you do not want to work will decrease your productivity and make your career experience miserable.
MEET WITH YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR
Consider meeting with an academic advisor. They hold a wealth of knowledge about different majors and can provide you with an understanding of what to expect in the new major you're eyeing. They can also guide you on how the transition might affect your graduation timeline and what financial implications to anticipate. Investigate the job opportunities that come with the new major. A bit of research into potential career paths, job market demand, and estimated earnings can give you a clearer picture of what the future may hold. Are there ample job opportunities in the field? What kind of salary can you expect, especially in the first year out of college? It's also wise to consider how your GPA might be affected. Taking time to explore these aspects will arm you with the necessary information to make a decision that you won't regret down the line.
CONSIDER INTERNSHIPS
Also what can be very helpful is an internship may be a determining whether switching majors is for you. Internships are pre-work conditions and you can best assess your career in a major you’re pursuing based on your experience with an internship. When you put what you are learning into practice in the real world, how does it truly make you feel? How good are you at applying your skills to real life opportunities? Getting career experience in your field of study is the best way to assess whether or not what you were studying is the proper fit for you. After all, forcing yourself to work a job you do not want to work will decrease your productivity and make your career experience miserable.
Joseph Ford
156
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Loaded question and yes students do switch majors. Reason is they began taking the classes in there major then interest change. Its human and normal. I switch majors to avoid Chemistry but remained in Technology. Go where your interest takes you and if it causes you to switch majors then just do it.