19 answers
Mia
Student
Islip Terrace, New York
1
Question
Asked
573 views
How do I know what to study or major in?
I'm in the 11th grade and looking at colleges and need direction.
19 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
745
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I have a simple philosophy, regarding this question.
Find something you love to do so much, that if you were not paid for it, you would still do it anyway.
This goes beyond simple passion. Passion is temporary, but something you love to do stays with you forever.
You will definitely need to do some self reflection, to determine what area of study or career, is something that will reflect this philosophy.
No one else can make this decision. It must be yours alone to make.
Find something you love to do so much, that if you were not paid for it, you would still do it anyway.
This goes beyond simple passion. Passion is temporary, but something you love to do stays with you forever.
You will definitely need to do some self reflection, to determine what area of study or career, is something that will reflect this philosophy.
No one else can make this decision. It must be yours alone to make.
Hana Kim
Student Nurse
14
Answers
Southborough, Massachusetts
Updated
Hana’s Answer
Hi Mia!
In my opinion, it's best to do what you find yourself doing when you're alone.
For example, I found that I wrote chapters of imaginary books on my own. I wanted to become an author of fantasy books ever since I was little, and I realized that it was my dream to become a writer.
This can help you in the future, such as preventing switching careers or burnout.
Best of luck to you with finding your major!
In my opinion, it's best to do what you find yourself doing when you're alone.
For example, I found that I wrote chapters of imaginary books on my own. I wanted to become an author of fantasy books ever since I was little, and I realized that it was my dream to become a writer.
This can help you in the future, such as preventing switching careers or burnout.
Best of luck to you with finding your major!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1832
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Different colleges have strength in different subjects. The most important is to find out what careers you have interest. Hence, you can determine what college suits you.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, 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 counselor, your parents, etc
4.. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects are the major and minor you can explore.
5. Explore the college review on these subjects and find out the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, 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 counselor, your parents, etc
4.. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects are the major and minor you can explore.
5. Explore the college review on these subjects and find out the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1601
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Mia if you’ve been putting off your conversation about college planning, now is the time you should be meeting with your high school guidance counselor during your junior year. Your guidance counselor can help with college planning is by helping you to identify colleges that you meet there accudemic qualifications. Though you might have heard of many schools that meet your needs and desires, your guidance counselor will inevitably know of even more. He or she may even be able to point you to a dream school you’ve never heard of before.
Your guidance counselor can also help you find resources about paying for college. Whether it’s sourcing scholarships or finding federal or private loans, your guidance counselor will likely know where you should begin. After you get into a college, your guidance counselor can also help you to review your financial aid package. In addition, your guidance counselor can help with any academic or personal concerns that might affect your performance at school. If you have an academic issue or a personal problem, your guidance counselor has probably dealt with similar issues in the past and will know where to point you to find the support or resources you need.
Remember, you don’t have to declare your major right away in college. Taking basic-level courses when you first get to college is also good way to gauge your level of interest and commitment in pursuing a degree program. It’s much better to realize as a freshman or sophomore that you aren’t as interested in a program as you thought you would be. Plus, you could always decide to be an interdisciplinary studies major! This degree program gives you the freedom and flexibility to take a wide variety of classes so you can discover where your interests lie, and cater your classes to the career that you want.
CareerBuilder is an excellent career exploration website that offers various services to help you in your job hunt. It provides comprehensive job listings, valuable career advice, and helpful resources for crafting impressive resumes and cover letters. With CareerBuilder, you can enjoy a personalized experience where you receive tailored job recommendations based on your profile. You can take career tests to determine the most suitable career path. You can also deep dive into career data with salary, similar roles, companies, and required skills. If you want to excel in your job search, it can show you how to build your resume for a specific job type.
Career One Stop is an all-encompassing career exploration website that caters to job seekers, students, businesses, and workforce professionals. You can access useful tools to explore career options, like informative videos, salary data, and educational prerequisites. Furthermore, it offers valuable resources for enhancing job search strategies, crafting resumes effectively, and preparing for interviews. Additionally, you can use skill assessment tools to identify careers that align with your abilities and interests.
My Next Move, another resource for anyone still determining their career path. This is a great career exploration website for students or anyone unsure of their next steps. It offers an interest assessment tool and provides extensive information on different professions. You can also find detailed descriptions of job tasks, necessary skills, expected salaries, and future prospects for each career. This career explorer website is connected to O*Net Online data. That means you'll have access to occupational data.
Your guidance counselor can also help you find resources about paying for college. Whether it’s sourcing scholarships or finding federal or private loans, your guidance counselor will likely know where you should begin. After you get into a college, your guidance counselor can also help you to review your financial aid package. In addition, your guidance counselor can help with any academic or personal concerns that might affect your performance at school. If you have an academic issue or a personal problem, your guidance counselor has probably dealt with similar issues in the past and will know where to point you to find the support or resources you need.
Remember, you don’t have to declare your major right away in college. Taking basic-level courses when you first get to college is also good way to gauge your level of interest and commitment in pursuing a degree program. It’s much better to realize as a freshman or sophomore that you aren’t as interested in a program as you thought you would be. Plus, you could always decide to be an interdisciplinary studies major! This degree program gives you the freedom and flexibility to take a wide variety of classes so you can discover where your interests lie, and cater your classes to the career that you want.
Doc recommends the following next steps:
Thank you Doc for your feedback and for the recommendation. Are there other sources similar to CareerBuilder that I can use?
Mia
Rochelle McKenzie
Product Manager
1
Answer
Ashburn, Virginia
Updated
Rochelle’s Answer
Start with prioritizing what you enjoy and identify what type of job will take advantage of it.
For example, if you enjoy engaging with people, perhaps being in a sales organization is good fit.
You can then identify what industry that is of great interest to you and identify classes that will expand your knowledge in that area.
For example, if you enjoy engaging with people, perhaps being in a sales organization is good fit.
You can then identify what industry that is of great interest to you and identify classes that will expand your knowledge in that area.
Darya Tsitova
110
Answers
Grodno, Hrodna Region, Belarus
Updated
Darya’s Answer
Hi,Mia! To be honest, choosing a major can be an important decision, especially as you enter college. However, do not forget that you can always change your occupation. Nevertheless, here is a small algorithm that can help you decide on the path, as it helped me:
1. Think about your interests and hobbies:
Think about the subjects or activities that you care about. What do you like to do in your free time? What activities do you like most at school? Mathematics, natural sciences, literature, art or social studies? By answering these questions and compiling some kind of table or something like that, it will be easier for you to process the information and draw related conclusions for yourself.
2. Evaluate your strengths:
Identify your academic strengths. Are you better versed in analytical subjects such as mathematics and natural sciences, or do you excel in creative fields such as art or literature? Get the opinion of teachers or mentors about your strengths.
3. Explore career options:
Explore different fields and industries. Identify the professions you are interested in and study the typical educational requirements.
4. Consider the trends in the labor market:
Explore areas that are in high demand. This will help you choose a specialty that can provide good employment prospects after graduation.
5. Talk to other people:
Talk to family members, teachers, school counselors, or professionals in areas of interest to you. They can share their ideas or give advice based on their experience. Join clubs or extracurricular activities related to your interests to better navigate the situation.
6. Think about your values and goals:
Think about what kind of influence you want to achieve or what kind of lifestyle you imagine for yourself. Think about the work-life balance, the expected salary and the work environment.
7. Be open to change:
It's normal that not everything is immediately clear. Many students change their major after entering college. If you are not sure, consider choosing a general education major that will allow you to study it before you specialize.
8. Use personality and career assessment:
Tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or aptitude tests can give you the right idea of your personality and potential career opportunities.
9. Plan for flexibility:
Choose a specialty that will allow you to develop transferable skills (such as critical thinking, communication, and problem solving) that can be applied in a wide variety of professions.
Dear Mia, I really hope that I could somehow help you figure out and clarify this whole difficult situation. I sincerely wish you to choose exactly what you will admire and truly love. Remember the main thing is not to rush and not to set yourself certain limits. Everything is in your hands and I'm sure you can handle it. Remember that at this stage it is normal to feel insecure about your future career. Take the time to explore your interests, strengths and career opportunities, this will help you make a more informed decision. Trust the process and give yourself the freedom to choose different paths in the learning process! With love, Darya
1. Think about your interests and hobbies:
Think about the subjects or activities that you care about. What do you like to do in your free time? What activities do you like most at school? Mathematics, natural sciences, literature, art or social studies? By answering these questions and compiling some kind of table or something like that, it will be easier for you to process the information and draw related conclusions for yourself.
2. Evaluate your strengths:
Identify your academic strengths. Are you better versed in analytical subjects such as mathematics and natural sciences, or do you excel in creative fields such as art or literature? Get the opinion of teachers or mentors about your strengths.
3. Explore career options:
Explore different fields and industries. Identify the professions you are interested in and study the typical educational requirements.
4. Consider the trends in the labor market:
Explore areas that are in high demand. This will help you choose a specialty that can provide good employment prospects after graduation.
5. Talk to other people:
Talk to family members, teachers, school counselors, or professionals in areas of interest to you. They can share their ideas or give advice based on their experience. Join clubs or extracurricular activities related to your interests to better navigate the situation.
6. Think about your values and goals:
Think about what kind of influence you want to achieve or what kind of lifestyle you imagine for yourself. Think about the work-life balance, the expected salary and the work environment.
7. Be open to change:
It's normal that not everything is immediately clear. Many students change their major after entering college. If you are not sure, consider choosing a general education major that will allow you to study it before you specialize.
8. Use personality and career assessment:
Tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or aptitude tests can give you the right idea of your personality and potential career opportunities.
9. Plan for flexibility:
Choose a specialty that will allow you to develop transferable skills (such as critical thinking, communication, and problem solving) that can be applied in a wide variety of professions.
Dear Mia, I really hope that I could somehow help you figure out and clarify this whole difficult situation. I sincerely wish you to choose exactly what you will admire and truly love. Remember the main thing is not to rush and not to set yourself certain limits. Everything is in your hands and I'm sure you can handle it. Remember that at this stage it is normal to feel insecure about your future career. Take the time to explore your interests, strengths and career opportunities, this will help you make a more informed decision. Trust the process and give yourself the freedom to choose different paths in the learning process! With love, Darya
Tess Satterfield
Lifeguard
7
Answers
Vienna, Virginia
Updated
Tess’s Answer
I think it’s really important to major in something that you are passionate about. It’s also ok to not know what you want to major in going into college. College is about finding your passions and figuring out what you want to do.
Yaa Darko
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Yaa’s Answer
Think about the things that interest you, and research careers around that.
Thank you Yaa. i'm interested in science but where can I research careers?
Mia
Liz A
Financial Crimes Protection
4
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Liz’s Answer
Hello Mia, the perfect starting point is identifying what you truly love studying in school, and then exploring the potential career paths that could lead you to. I was passionate about History and pursued it in college as my major. It was an enriching journey, although I must admit, it was a bit challenging to establish myself in the career field initially. I didn't envision myself as a teacher and was a bit uncertain about the next steps.
However, I found an opportunity with a company that sponsored my further education in business. As it turned out, both my degrees have significantly contributed to my career growth. My current role demands meticulous attention to detail, research, and writing skills, all of which were honed during my History major. Additionally, my understanding of marketing, statistics, and teamwork, which were part of my business degree, are also invaluable in my job.
So, start by following your passion and be practical about your objectives. Ensure that what you love can lead to a fulfilling career that not only provides financial stability but also brings you joy. Wishing you the very best on your journey!
However, I found an opportunity with a company that sponsored my further education in business. As it turned out, both my degrees have significantly contributed to my career growth. My current role demands meticulous attention to detail, research, and writing skills, all of which were honed during my History major. Additionally, my understanding of marketing, statistics, and teamwork, which were part of my business degree, are also invaluable in my job.
So, start by following your passion and be practical about your objectives. Ensure that what you love can lead to a fulfilling career that not only provides financial stability but also brings you joy. Wishing you the very best on your journey!
Sean Benson
KYC Analyst
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Sean’s Answer
Hello Mia!
There are a few things to consider when determining what to major in:
1. Is this something you are passionate about? A lot of people choose majors like pre-med, finance, STEM, etc. because these are majors that lead to high salaries. But if your heart isn't there, you're going to feel miserable.
2. Does it align with your schedule? Keep in mind that some majors are much more demanding than other, and if you plan on engaging in any extracurriculars, then make sure whatever major you choose allows you to balance your life properly
3. What's the salary range for people that choose this major? This isn't to contradict my earlier statement, but rather to put things into perspective a bit. If you know that your top choice major isn't going to make you much money out of college, then you might want to consider your number 2 or 3 choice if they result in higher pay.
4. Is it a major that your university of choice is known for? Some universities are more geared towards certain majors than others, so it's important that you keep this in mind when determining your school of choice. It's not uncommon for a university to have your major, but the department isn't very serious so you're not getting the best education.
5. Are you having fun? I cannot stress this enough. If you are not having fun with your major, then it's going to feel like a chore.
I hope this helps!
Best,
Sean
There are a few things to consider when determining what to major in:
1. Is this something you are passionate about? A lot of people choose majors like pre-med, finance, STEM, etc. because these are majors that lead to high salaries. But if your heart isn't there, you're going to feel miserable.
2. Does it align with your schedule? Keep in mind that some majors are much more demanding than other, and if you plan on engaging in any extracurriculars, then make sure whatever major you choose allows you to balance your life properly
3. What's the salary range for people that choose this major? This isn't to contradict my earlier statement, but rather to put things into perspective a bit. If you know that your top choice major isn't going to make you much money out of college, then you might want to consider your number 2 or 3 choice if they result in higher pay.
4. Is it a major that your university of choice is known for? Some universities are more geared towards certain majors than others, so it's important that you keep this in mind when determining your school of choice. It's not uncommon for a university to have your major, but the department isn't very serious so you're not getting the best education.
5. Are you having fun? I cannot stress this enough. If you are not having fun with your major, then it's going to feel like a chore.
I hope this helps!
Best,
Sean
Hailey Franklin
Client Relationship Representative
7
Answers
Eagan, Minnesota
Updated
Hailey’s Answer
Hey Mia! I can totally relate to your current situation as I was once in your shoes, unsure about my future. The most effective strategy I employed was to jot down all my interests, and then identify which of these could potentially earn me a living. I then sought out educational institutions that aligned with my academic aspirations, personal values, and required accommodations.
I noticed from one of your previous thank you notes that you have a keen interest in the sciences. I would recommend that you explore various scientific disciplines online. Are you drawn towards softer sciences such as psychology, or do you prefer more tangible sciences like biology? Do you envision yourself conducting research or are you more inclined towards helping others? Once you've answered these questions, you can then decide whether to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (B.A) or a Bachelor of Science (B.S), and determine your major. Next, find colleges that offer your chosen program in a format that suits you (either on-campus or online), and submit your application. Once you're in college, you can then concentrate on identifying a career that aligns with your chosen field of study.
I'm rooting for you in this exciting new phase of your life and I'm certain that you'll find a path that's perfect for you!
I noticed from one of your previous thank you notes that you have a keen interest in the sciences. I would recommend that you explore various scientific disciplines online. Are you drawn towards softer sciences such as psychology, or do you prefer more tangible sciences like biology? Do you envision yourself conducting research or are you more inclined towards helping others? Once you've answered these questions, you can then decide whether to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (B.A) or a Bachelor of Science (B.S), and determine your major. Next, find colleges that offer your chosen program in a format that suits you (either on-campus or online), and submit your application. Once you're in college, you can then concentrate on identifying a career that aligns with your chosen field of study.
I'm rooting for you in this exciting new phase of your life and I'm certain that you'll find a path that's perfect for you!
Julie M
Asset Management
5
Answers
Buffalo Grove, Illinois
Updated
Julie’s Answer
Hello Mia,
Your school's guidance counselor could be a great starting point for you. They can assist you in narrowing down the range of degrees that catch your interest. Begin by examining a list of professions and decide what your dream job would be after graduation. Once you've identified the jobs that pique your interest, you can then figure out which degrees would best prepare you for that career. For example, if you aspire to be a doctor or lawyer, your undergraduate degree should align with your future educational plans, ensuring a smooth transition into law school or medical school.
Your school's guidance counselor could be a great starting point for you. They can assist you in narrowing down the range of degrees that catch your interest. Begin by examining a list of professions and decide what your dream job would be after graduation. Once you've identified the jobs that pique your interest, you can then figure out which degrees would best prepare you for that career. For example, if you aspire to be a doctor or lawyer, your undergraduate degree should align with your future educational plans, ensuring a smooth transition into law school or medical school.
Alex Doyle
Product Manager
5
Answers
Rockville, Maryland
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Here's my advice (that may be controversial) - it is more important to find a SCHOOL that is a good fit for you, than a Major. You can always change your major once you get to your school.......most people do!!
So I think it is more important to find a school that works for you - some people like small, some big, some rural, some urban, etc etc. There's no wrong answer - it's more of getting something that feels right to you. And then the major will work itself out!
Good luck!
So I think it is more important to find a school that works for you - some people like small, some big, some rural, some urban, etc etc. There's no wrong answer - it's more of getting something that feels right to you. And then the major will work itself out!
Good luck!
Gus S
Consultant
38
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Gus’s Answer
Start with yourself: ask what your interests and strengths are to choose a major that aligns with your interests and skills. If you are struggling with narrowing this down, talk to your community (family/teachers/advisors) to get their inputs on both major decisions and the potential career opportunities. Lastly, do some research (you have already started on this forum) to help you learn about different majors and allow you to make an informed decision.
Elyse Im
9
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Elyse’s Answer
Think about different passions and interests you currently have and what type of future career you can envision with that major in college. Just also remember that as you take more classes and meet more people in college, your major and interests might change, and that's okay! Make sure to explore different classes to cast a wide net and then you can refine what speaks to you.
Konstantine Ringor, MSN, RN, CPAN
10
Answers
Updated
Konstantine’s Answer
I understand how difficult it is to choose a major! It helped me consider my interests. I learned about health care by helping in the ER. That event taught me that I prefer assisting those in need and want to study nursing or medicine.
Also, try to start taking college classes in your senior year. Finding something you like will influence what your future endeavors will be. Don't put pressure on yourself—college is a time to experiment!
Also, try to start taking college classes in your senior year. Finding something you like will influence what your future endeavors will be. Don't put pressure on yourself—college is a time to experiment!
Kevin P Hust, MBA
Risk Administration and Army Officer
201
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Kevin P’s Answer
Mia, let me say it this way, not all than wander are lost. Time is on your side.
Write it down and take a look at it on paper. What interests you? What do you enjoy? What are you good at? (Don’t forget about the other side) what do you dislike? What would prefer to not do?
It’s okay to go into college still a little undecided. If that is the case, I recommend a community college for a year. Most of the time the basics or your first year is very similar from degree to degree.
Take a wide range of different subjects and get involved. Not only do you have another year of high school, you have a year or two of college before it becomes crucial to truly know.
If you find a field you’re interested in, find someone on linked in in that field. They might be able to shed additional light on it.
I learned the hard way that I truly didn’t know until I tried a few different things. And even then, I still changed my major. It’s okay.
But please, talk to people, get some insight. This was a big step for me. Most true professionals have no issue taking time to discuss this with you.
Most are excited to have young individuals excited about the field they chose. It’s fun to talk about what one has accomplished.
Best of luck. You got this!
Write it down and take a look at it on paper. What interests you? What do you enjoy? What are you good at? (Don’t forget about the other side) what do you dislike? What would prefer to not do?
It’s okay to go into college still a little undecided. If that is the case, I recommend a community college for a year. Most of the time the basics or your first year is very similar from degree to degree.
Take a wide range of different subjects and get involved. Not only do you have another year of high school, you have a year or two of college before it becomes crucial to truly know.
If you find a field you’re interested in, find someone on linked in in that field. They might be able to shed additional light on it.
I learned the hard way that I truly didn’t know until I tried a few different things. And even then, I still changed my major. It’s okay.
But please, talk to people, get some insight. This was a big step for me. Most true professionals have no issue taking time to discuss this with you.
Most are excited to have young individuals excited about the field they chose. It’s fun to talk about what one has accomplished.
Best of luck. You got this!
James P
Portfolio Manager
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
James’s Answer
Is college and study for passion, or a means to an end?
If it's for passion, the answer is easy - study what interests you.
But most students probably hope to have a career that is satisfying, lucrative, or hopefully both. In this case I recommend you to study something which a) you are good at, b) interests you, and c) has earning potential which is in line with your income goals.
Picking a school is the same: where can you succeed, has a curriculum that interests you, and is aligned financially (cost and earning potential)?
Good luck!
If it's for passion, the answer is easy - study what interests you.
But most students probably hope to have a career that is satisfying, lucrative, or hopefully both. In this case I recommend you to study something which a) you are good at, b) interests you, and c) has earning potential which is in line with your income goals.
Picking a school is the same: where can you succeed, has a curriculum that interests you, and is aligned financially (cost and earning potential)?
Good luck!
sofia c
32
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
sofia’s Answer
You want to do an in person visit to see how the campus feels if in state or out of state. You want to look at the size of the school and classroom. Also see the culture and student life. It is a place you will be in for 4-5 years. Make sure they offer the major you are looking at and it is comparable . Also take cost into account as you might not get a full ride and might need to do CC or summer classes to help with the loans if not enough grants.
have top and safe schools
have instate and out of state options
do a pro/con
sofia recommends the following next steps:
Thank you Sofia!
Mia
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