8 answers
Melissa
Student
Plano, Texas
1
Question
Asked
595 views
How can I change my major if am not interested in it anymore?
i dont like my major
Login to comment
8 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Melissa the sooner you can decide to change your major, the better. Your first two years of college will probably be all or mostly general education requirements, and they’re more likely to work for multiple major requirements, which is good. But the longer you wait/later you decide to change your major, the harder it can be, because you’ll be taking more specialized classes that may not apply to your new major. You may lose credits you’ve already earned if they do not apply to the major you’re changing into
MEET WITH YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR
Before switching majors, meet with your academic advisor to talk through your options and how the change will affect your graduation requirements. General education requirements for your old major might not apply towards your new major, so make sure you discuss these factors in detail.
TALK TO CAREER SERVICES
Your new major might have less to do with your career opportunities than you think. Schedule a meeting with your school's career services and talk about your options with your current major and your prospective new major.
RUN THE NUMBERS
Calculate how many additional credits you'll need to earn a different major and how much it will cost. Then, decide whether the benefits of changing majors are worth the extra time and money.
LEARN FROM CURRENT MAJORS
Find undergrads majoring in the field you're considering and talk to them. Ask about the classes they're taking and have taken, the faculty, and the requirements for the major. Look for any red flags that could cause problems down the line for you.
TAKE YOUR NEW MAJOR FOR A TEST DRIVE
Make sure you like the new major by taking classes first and familiarizing yourself with the discipline. Talk to professors about career options and gather as much information as possible before officially making the switch.
MEET WITH YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR
Before switching majors, meet with your academic advisor to talk through your options and how the change will affect your graduation requirements. General education requirements for your old major might not apply towards your new major, so make sure you discuss these factors in detail.
TALK TO CAREER SERVICES
Your new major might have less to do with your career opportunities than you think. Schedule a meeting with your school's career services and talk about your options with your current major and your prospective new major.
RUN THE NUMBERS
Calculate how many additional credits you'll need to earn a different major and how much it will cost. Then, decide whether the benefits of changing majors are worth the extra time and money.
LEARN FROM CURRENT MAJORS
Find undergrads majoring in the field you're considering and talk to them. Ask about the classes they're taking and have taken, the faculty, and the requirements for the major. Look for any red flags that could cause problems down the line for you.
TAKE YOUR NEW MAJOR FOR A TEST DRIVE
Make sure you like the new major by taking classes first and familiarizing yourself with the discipline. Talk to professors about career options and gather as much information as possible before officially making the switch.
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 Melissa,
Guidelines on Switching Your Major When It No Longer Appeals to You
If you've reached a point where your current major no longer sparks your interest and you're contemplating a switch, here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this transition successfully:
1. Introspection: Before taking any action, spend some time in introspection. Identify the reasons behind your dwindling interest in your current major. Could it be the course content, job prospects, or simply a waning passion for the subject? Pinpointing the root of your dissatisfaction can steer your decision-making process.
2. Investigate Other Majors: Having pinpointed why you wish to switch your major, explore other majors that better align with your interests, abilities, and career aspirations. Delve into their curriculum, job prospects, and growth potential to ensure they resonate with you.
3. Seek Guidance from Academic Advisors: Arrange a meeting with your college or university's academic advisors to discuss your apprehensions about switching your major. They can offer valuable insights into the process, prerequisites for changing majors, and how it might affect your academic journey and graduation schedule.
4. Understand Degree Prerequisites: Familiarize yourself with the degree prerequisites for the new major you're considering. This includes any additional coursework needed for the switch. Be cognizant of any potential postponements in graduation that might result from the switch.
5. Assess Transferable Credits: Determine which of your current credits can be transferred to the new major to minimize any delays in terms of time and tuition costs. Understanding how your existing coursework fits into the new major’s requirements is key for a seamless transition.
6. Develop a Strategy: Draft a comprehensive strategy detailing the steps you need to take to successfully switch your major. This strategy should include deadlines for paperwork submission, advisor meetings, and enrollment for new courses related to the new major.
7. Implement Your Plan: After comprehensive research, advisor consultations, and strategy development, it's time to implement your plan. Complete the necessary paperwork and course registration to officially switch your major.
Switching your major is a significant decision that demands thoughtful consideration and planning. By adhering to these steps and seeking advice from academic advisors, you can effectively navigate this process and pursue a field of study that genuinely captivates you.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
The College Board: The College Board is a reliable source offering guidance on college admissions, major selection, and academic planning for students. Their resources provide valuable insights into switching majors and managing academic transitions effectively.
U.S. News & World Report - Education Section: The Education section of U.S. News & World Report offers extensive information on college programs, majors, and career guidance. Their articles on switching majors provide expert advice and tips for students contemplating this transition.
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE): NACE is a respected organization offering resources on career development, internships, and job placement for college students. Their insights on choosing majors based on career prospects can be advantageous when exploring alternative fields of study.
These sources were referenced to ensure accurate information and expert advice in addressing how to effectively switch majors when the current one no longer interests you.
God Bless You,
JC.
Guidelines on Switching Your Major When It No Longer Appeals to You
If you've reached a point where your current major no longer sparks your interest and you're contemplating a switch, here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this transition successfully:
1. Introspection: Before taking any action, spend some time in introspection. Identify the reasons behind your dwindling interest in your current major. Could it be the course content, job prospects, or simply a waning passion for the subject? Pinpointing the root of your dissatisfaction can steer your decision-making process.
2. Investigate Other Majors: Having pinpointed why you wish to switch your major, explore other majors that better align with your interests, abilities, and career aspirations. Delve into their curriculum, job prospects, and growth potential to ensure they resonate with you.
3. Seek Guidance from Academic Advisors: Arrange a meeting with your college or university's academic advisors to discuss your apprehensions about switching your major. They can offer valuable insights into the process, prerequisites for changing majors, and how it might affect your academic journey and graduation schedule.
4. Understand Degree Prerequisites: Familiarize yourself with the degree prerequisites for the new major you're considering. This includes any additional coursework needed for the switch. Be cognizant of any potential postponements in graduation that might result from the switch.
5. Assess Transferable Credits: Determine which of your current credits can be transferred to the new major to minimize any delays in terms of time and tuition costs. Understanding how your existing coursework fits into the new major’s requirements is key for a seamless transition.
6. Develop a Strategy: Draft a comprehensive strategy detailing the steps you need to take to successfully switch your major. This strategy should include deadlines for paperwork submission, advisor meetings, and enrollment for new courses related to the new major.
7. Implement Your Plan: After comprehensive research, advisor consultations, and strategy development, it's time to implement your plan. Complete the necessary paperwork and course registration to officially switch your major.
Switching your major is a significant decision that demands thoughtful consideration and planning. By adhering to these steps and seeking advice from academic advisors, you can effectively navigate this process and pursue a field of study that genuinely captivates you.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
The College Board: The College Board is a reliable source offering guidance on college admissions, major selection, and academic planning for students. Their resources provide valuable insights into switching majors and managing academic transitions effectively.
U.S. News & World Report - Education Section: The Education section of U.S. News & World Report offers extensive information on college programs, majors, and career guidance. Their articles on switching majors provide expert advice and tips for students contemplating this transition.
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE): NACE is a respected organization offering resources on career development, internships, and job placement for college students. Their insights on choosing majors based on career prospects can be advantageous when exploring alternative fields of study.
These sources were referenced to ensure accurate information and expert advice in addressing how to effectively switch majors when the current one no longer interests you.
God Bless You,
JC.
Sasha Joogoolsingh
Human Resources
53
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Sasha’s Answer
Hello Melissa,
Remember, as an undergraduate student, you hold the power to alter your major. Before you make such a significant decision, I strongly advise you to engage with professionals in the field you're considering. This will help you understand if your newfound interest is something you can see yourself pursuing and enjoying in the long run, even after graduation.
Moreover, don't hesitate to seek guidance from your academic department or advisor. They're there to provide you with valuable insights and help steer you in the right direction. This way, you can avoid investing your precious time and resources into something that doesn't truly resonate with you. Be sure to check on GPA requirements or course prerequisites before you submit your change request, as some programs might have specific eligibility criteria.
Most importantly, don't forget to make the change to your major before the deadline for the program you're interested in.
Here's wishing you all the best on your academic journey! Remember, this is your path, and you have the power to shape it as you see fit.
Remember, as an undergraduate student, you hold the power to alter your major. Before you make such a significant decision, I strongly advise you to engage with professionals in the field you're considering. This will help you understand if your newfound interest is something you can see yourself pursuing and enjoying in the long run, even after graduation.
Moreover, don't hesitate to seek guidance from your academic department or advisor. They're there to provide you with valuable insights and help steer you in the right direction. This way, you can avoid investing your precious time and resources into something that doesn't truly resonate with you. Be sure to check on GPA requirements or course prerequisites before you submit your change request, as some programs might have specific eligibility criteria.
Most importantly, don't forget to make the change to your major before the deadline for the program you're interested in.
Here's wishing you all the best on your academic journey! Remember, this is your path, and you have the power to shape it as you see fit.
Alyssa Alejo
Supervisor Gaming Audit
51
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
Alyssa’s Answer
Arrange a Meeting with an Academic Advisor. To discover the major that aligns perfectly with your aspirations and passions, have a conversation with an academic advisor. They're there to guide you.
Reach Out to Career Services. They're a valuable resource that can provide insights into future career paths and how different majors can lead to them.
Understand the Requirements of Your Prospective Major. Be informed about what's expected in your new field of study. This will help you prepare and succeed.
Gain Wisdom from Your Existing Major. There's always something valuable to learn from your current major that can be applied to your new one.
Enroll in Courses of Your New Major. This will give you a taste of what's to come and will help you adapt to your new academic journey.
Reach Out to Career Services. They're a valuable resource that can provide insights into future career paths and how different majors can lead to them.
Understand the Requirements of Your Prospective Major. Be informed about what's expected in your new field of study. This will help you prepare and succeed.
Gain Wisdom from Your Existing Major. There's always something valuable to learn from your current major that can be applied to your new one.
Enroll in Courses of Your New Major. This will give you a taste of what's to come and will help you adapt to your new academic journey.
Shetalia Bowens Lawrence
Teacher
3
Answers
Mesquite, Texas
Updated
Shetalia’s Answer
It is totally fine to change your major while you are in college. This happens often and some students switch their majors within the first year or first few semesters of college. You will need to look into what you are interested in, and speak to advising regarding what career interests you. Sometimes there are quizzes that you can take to see what your learning style is and what career options that you can connect with. Also join organizations that can assist you with career paths. TRiO is an excellent program to get in so that they can help you navigate with majors, career interests, tutoring, etc.
Karissa Helton
Teacher
205
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Karissa’s Answer
If you go to the counseling center they will have a form for you to fill out. If you are not sure what to change to that is okay. There will be an "undecided" or "liberal arts" option. If they do not have those options then keep your major. Take what ever classes you want while you make up your mind. If you are on financial aid you might be required to have a declared major and only take the classes that are part of that degree program.
Rita Chuang
Physician
206
Answers
Henderson, Nevada
Updated
Rita’s Answer
Of course! People change their major all the time. You may want to start out with the core classes which are required to graduate and then see what subjects interest you.
Roel Ramon
Product Management and Development
64
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Roel’s Answer
Hello Melissa,
Firstly, I would suggest setting up a meeting with your academic advisor at school. They are an invaluable resource in assisting you to pinpoint the right path forward. It would be beneficial to have a rough idea of your potential interests before the meeting, so they can efficiently guide you through the decision-making process.
Remember, it's perfectly fine to feel uncertain and consider changing your major. Just ensure that you're actively planning your next steps and don't hesitate to seek help when needed. You're not alone in this journey, and there are plenty of resources available to support you.
Firstly, I would suggest setting up a meeting with your academic advisor at school. They are an invaluable resource in assisting you to pinpoint the right path forward. It would be beneficial to have a rough idea of your potential interests before the meeting, so they can efficiently guide you through the decision-making process.
Remember, it's perfectly fine to feel uncertain and consider changing your major. Just ensure that you're actively planning your next steps and don't hesitate to seek help when needed. You're not alone in this journey, and there are plenty of resources available to support you.