Choosing a Major

As you enter college, it’s completely normal to have already chosen a major or be completely undecided.

What’s nice to know is that you have a good amount of time to investigate your interests, explore your options, and get the support you need to make a good decision. From professors to academic advisors to career counselors, most colleges have plenty of folks on campus with whom you can discuss your thoughts about possible majors.
Here are a few resources that can help you choose a major that’s right for you:

• Advising program: Most institutions will pair you with an advisor who works with you and a small group of other students.You’ll meet frequently to discuss your courses, academic interests, adjustments to college life and, of course, what majors you might be considering if you’re still deciding.

• Assessing your interests: Many colleges offer assessment tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and the Strong Interest Inventory. Assessments can help you explore how your interests and preferences can help you choose a major.

• Career counseling: If you’ve decided on a major but aren’t sure about what you can do with it (i.e., what careers might be a good match), then meeting with a career counselor to discuss your options may be helpful.

• Resource library: How do you get a job at a U.S. embassy? What are the best jobs for liberal arts graduates? What kind of salary might I earn as an academic librarian? If you’ve got questions, you can find often the answers with a visit to a Career Center library. You can check out numerous books, videos, and journals to help you find the information you’re looking for.

• Informational interviews with alumni: Some students like to read about and research different careers, while others would rather talk with a professional in the field. Alumni will not only give you a good idea of what they do and how they got there but provide you with the inside scoop about the profession and how you can prepare yourself for entering this field.