How to Choose a College Major

Picture a scenario all of us have experienced. We’re meeting someone for the first time. They ask what grade you’re in or what do you do, and you inform them your a college student at so-and-so. From that point, the next question is “What are you studying?”

Deciding a major in college is very important. Even high school juniors are pressured to have a career path lined up for themselves. Whether you are feeling pressured by your lack of preparation or just want some reassurance, here’s some tips for choosing your college major.

Find your interests

What do you like to do in your spare time?

What are your favorite subjects?

Do you have a dream job?

These question will push you to where your interests lie. From there, you can start finding fields that suit your interests. There are surveys online that take your interests and show how many people in certain fields have similar interests.

Play to your Strengths

Is there any subject you’ve really excelled at?

Do people constantly compliment you on certain activities?

Have you ever thought it would be easy doing a certain type of job?

If you’re good at something, make a career of it! Several type of unusual careers are sources of income (including blogging).

Do your research

If you’re going into computer science because it sounds cool, find out what you can about programming first. Think the medical field is the way to make a lot of money? See how your biology and chemistry classes are going. If you want to dedicate four years of your life to studying something, make sure it’s something you actually want to do.

Don’t overthink it

If you find yourself enjoying some of your electives, don’t be afraid to branch out. You could take up a minor, or maybe a double major. And if you’re doubting your original choice of major, you’ve got some time to adjust. One in three college students change their majors at least once. One in ten change it twice or more.

In Summary

Your college major is an important decision to make. It is up to you to decide what you should study. Find your interests, play to your strengths, do your research, but don’t overthink your decision. It is up to you to decide what you want to major in. Just chart a course and sail on ahead!