Figure Out… A Major
Choosing a major is an important step, but it’s not as final as it might feel. You can always change your major, explore careers beyond it, and let your interests evolve over time.
Try not to get pressured by family or friends. Pick something that makes sense for you. People can easily get burned out from something that doesn’t interest them.
Focus on things you are truly interested in and willing to work on. People who choose only based on money or status can struggle with motivation and career fulfillment.
When in doubt, pick a major that strengthens your soft skills (Communications, Psychology, Data Analytics). You can specialize in topics through minors, student clubs, and internships.
Things to keep in mind:
Don’t Let Your Major Limit You
Take a variety of classes as your schedule allows.
Remember, you can change your major—many students do!
Many people work in fields unrelated to their major.
Skills like communication, critical thinking, tech literacy, and adaptability are valuable in any career.
Double majors or minors can help you combine interests.
Figuring Out… Your Major
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What subjects do you enjoy? (Not just what you're good at—what excites you?)
What do you like to do outside of class?
What kinds of problems do you enjoy solving?
Can you see yourself doing this work long-term, even in different forms?
Tools:
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We recommend you complete Figure Out... Your Skills
What are you good at? (Consider skills from sports, activities, school, etc.)
What are your strengths? (Analytical thinking, writing, creativity, working with people, etc.
Compare your skills and interests to narrow down your key areas.
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What kind of lifestyle do you want? (High-earning job, flexibility, creativity, social impact, etc.)
What work environment suits you? (Office, lab, outdoors, freelance, etc.)
Remember, this can – and most likely will – be adjusted as you grow and learn
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Research careers that align with your interests, skills and career preferences
Connect with your Career Services office
Research job demand and average salary for these careers
Research popular cities or hubs for these types of jobs (e.g., politics in D.C. or finance in New York) and consider your willingness to relocate.
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Find majors that align with your potential career options
Connect with your Student Advisor
Look up alumni in your potential careers, and identify majors they studied
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Understand what is expected of students declaring these majors
Some majors are flexible (liberal arts), while others are more rigid (engineering, nursing)
Some require many prerequisites, labs, or time-intensive projects
Research if the major requires additional schooling or degrees
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Identify a few potential majors during your first year.
You may feel pressure from other students to declare early but take the time you need to make the right decision for you.
Take introductory classes in a few majors you’re considering.
Talk to professors or advisors in those departments.
Join student organizations or clubs in that field.
Job shadow or intern (even unpaid or short-term).
Ask upperclassmen what the coursework is like.
Follow the steps below to figure out what major makes the most sense to you