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What do I do if I don't know what to major in college?
I'm in my senior year starting on my college applications and my parents always ask me what I want to do in my future, but I haven't decided what to do yet.
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Emma’s Answer
Hi there!
What I would try to remember is that your major does not necessarily dictate your career. You aren't stuck in a certain career based on what you choose. I would focus on selecting a major that is most INTERESTING to you. And, as much as possible, take a selection of coursework that is broad so you can get exposed to as many fields and topics as possible. You may surprise yourself in what interests you, and it will help you make a more informed decision about what sorts of careers are a fit! You don't have to know what you want to do yet, you have time to figure it out, and college is a great place to narrow that down!
What I would try to remember is that your major does not necessarily dictate your career. You aren't stuck in a certain career based on what you choose. I would focus on selecting a major that is most INTERESTING to you. And, as much as possible, take a selection of coursework that is broad so you can get exposed to as many fields and topics as possible. You may surprise yourself in what interests you, and it will help you make a more informed decision about what sorts of careers are a fit! You don't have to know what you want to do yet, you have time to figure it out, and college is a great place to narrow that down!
Justin Shapiro
Accounting | Finance | Financial Systems | Non-Profit Volunteer
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Justin’s Answer
Hi Darryn,
It’s totally okay not to have a major figured out yet—college is actually a great time to explore your interests. Here’s a plan that can help you find a major that fits you without feeling rushed:
1. Start with a Broad Major
If you’re interested in areas like business, science, or the humanities but haven’t settled on specifics, consider starting with a general major (like Liberal Arts, Business Administration, or Science) that lets you sample classes from multiple areas. This way, you’ll get exposure to different fields without committing right away.
2. Take General Education Courses
Colleges often require you to take general education classes across various subjects, so use this as an opportunity to explore topics you might not have considered. You might discover an unexpected interest in psychology, computer science, economics, or art that could lead you toward a major.
3. Consider Minors or Double Majors Later On
Some students find they’re interested in more than one field, and many schools offer flexible programs for minors or even double majors. If you discover two areas you like, you can often combine them in unique ways (e.g., Business and Computer Science, or Psychology and Marketing).
4. Talk to College Advisors and Professors
Once you’re in college, advisors can be a great resource. They’re experienced in helping students like you explore majors and often know about career paths you might not have heard of.
5. Look Into Internships or Job Shadowing
Real-world experience can provide valuable insights. You could use summers or breaks to intern in different fields or shadow professionals to get a sense of what daily life in those careers is like.
6. Join Clubs and Extracurriculars
College clubs and activities are great ways to try out fields in a low-stakes environment. For example, if you’re curious about business, join a business club; if you’re leaning toward tech, look for coding or tech-related clubs.
Many students enter college undecided, and most colleges are set up to help you find your path, so you’re in good company.!
It’s totally okay not to have a major figured out yet—college is actually a great time to explore your interests. Here’s a plan that can help you find a major that fits you without feeling rushed:
1. Start with a Broad Major
If you’re interested in areas like business, science, or the humanities but haven’t settled on specifics, consider starting with a general major (like Liberal Arts, Business Administration, or Science) that lets you sample classes from multiple areas. This way, you’ll get exposure to different fields without committing right away.
2. Take General Education Courses
Colleges often require you to take general education classes across various subjects, so use this as an opportunity to explore topics you might not have considered. You might discover an unexpected interest in psychology, computer science, economics, or art that could lead you toward a major.
3. Consider Minors or Double Majors Later On
Some students find they’re interested in more than one field, and many schools offer flexible programs for minors or even double majors. If you discover two areas you like, you can often combine them in unique ways (e.g., Business and Computer Science, or Psychology and Marketing).
4. Talk to College Advisors and Professors
Once you’re in college, advisors can be a great resource. They’re experienced in helping students like you explore majors and often know about career paths you might not have heard of.
5. Look Into Internships or Job Shadowing
Real-world experience can provide valuable insights. You could use summers or breaks to intern in different fields or shadow professionals to get a sense of what daily life in those careers is like.
6. Join Clubs and Extracurriculars
College clubs and activities are great ways to try out fields in a low-stakes environment. For example, if you’re curious about business, join a business club; if you’re leaning toward tech, look for coding or tech-related clubs.
Many students enter college undecided, and most colleges are set up to help you find your path, so you’re in good company.!
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
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Paul’s Answer
You also might want to see if the college or university has a major in General Studies
This major offers a variety of courses and is regarded as a flexible major, especially for individuals who might be undecided, about what they wish to major in, or what career path to follow.
It allows them the path towards a bachelor's degree, and the possibility of pursuing more education, should they decide on a specific career at a later time.
This major offers a variety of courses and is regarded as a flexible major, especially for individuals who might be undecided, about what they wish to major in, or what career path to follow.
It allows them the path towards a bachelor's degree, and the possibility of pursuing more education, should they decide on a specific career at a later time.