So, you’ve arrived at the University and you still have no clue what to major in?
Well, relax! The truth is you’re not alone. It’s common for freshmen to enter college undecided about what to study.
There are hundreds of career options available to students today. Finding your perfect fit may take some time. You may not even get it right on the first try, but fear not. When you finally do find the right major, you’ll know it.
The first step to declaring a major lies in knowing yourself. Try making a list of likes and dislikes. Focus on what you want out of a job. Knowing where you want to go brings you one step closer to getting there.
Ask yourself questions. What types of activities do you enjoy? What talents do you possess? What are your goals in life?
The answers to these questions can point you in the right direction when it comes to finding the ideal major.
Also, taking electives that appeal to you is helpful in the decision process. Don’t fill your schedule entirely with boring general education requirements.
Choose classes that pique your interest. Who knows, maybe horseback riding will inspire you to become a veterinarian. Or perhaps ice skating will encourage you to give sports management a try. You’ll never know if you don’t give it a shot.
Stick to what you enjoy.
But don’t be afraid of leaving your comfort zone. Trying new and different things is important.
If you’re a math and science whiz, why not attempt a creative writing class? Even if you don’t enjoy it you’ll come out learning something else about yourself.
There are tons of clubs and activities on campus that you can take part in to aid you in your decision. However, you may find that you need some help along the way deciding where and how to invest your time. That’s where the faculty and staff come in.
The professors and academic advisors are there to help you. Don’t be afraid to approach them.
Talk to the professors about what they do when they’re not teaching. Their answers may surprise you.
They are people too, you know.
Many of them have worked in their field for years before they began teaching. Their knowledge can undoubtedly assist you in your search for a major.
And by all means, go see your academic advisor! You all have one and helping you declare a major is their job. It really is okay to go see them more than once a semester.
And if you still just can’t make up your mind, there are others you can turn to. For example, upperclassmen can also offer some great advice. They’ve got a few more years under theirbelts and can relay their experiences.
And dare I mention you could confer with your parents? Yes, that’s right. The people who raised you just may be able to offer some constructive suggestions.
Declaring your major can seem stressful and overbearing at times.
But it should be a fun experience. Although such a decision seems so final, there’s no need to burden yourself with unnecessary pressure.
Remember to relax. As a freshman, you have plenty of time to decide what you want to do.
Spend your first semester or two taking in all the different options out there. Use the next summer to reflect on your experiences, and perhaps then you can declare your major.
So you don’t know what you want to do with the rest of your life?
Well, good. Join the thousands of others just like yourself and take pleasure in discovering your calling.