How to Choose the right major for college

1. Find your passion
​

Find what you gravitate towards the most in life, consider why you like doing it, what you are talented in, and think about if you want to have a career in it.  If you have a passion for what you do, you are more likely to be fulfilled in your professional life.

2. Think about colleges when picking your major 

Some colleges may not have your anticipated major, so you may want to do research on the schools you are interested in. Some colleges are known to excel in certain majors and really prepare you for your career. You should also look up the percentage of students that graduate from a college with your anticipated major and the job placement rate.

3. Carefully consider career advice

People close to you, such as family members, may try to decide or persuade your career path decision because they believe you will be good at it. However, it’s up to you to choose your path because you know yourself best. 

4. Declare a major on college applications
​
Declaring a major before coming into college could help you as an applicant figure out where you would fit best at the college.  If you’re not sure about which major to pick, you can apply as “undecided” and take your core classes before you decide on a major. Take different electives to get a feel for different majors. You can choose a major that you feel best fits you as you can always change your major while in college. 

5. Know how far your major will take you at the undergraduate level

​For many majors, a bachelor’s degree is all you may need to get into your career.  However, there are careers that may require getting a higher degree such as a master or a doctorate. Some careers may also require you to obtain additional certifications in order to enter the field.

6. Weigh a STEM discipline

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are very promising majors but are not for everyone. You will need to have strong math skills, be analytical, and have problem-solving skills. STEM careers are expected to grow and have great job security.

 7.  Pair a major with a useful minor

Minors are used to well-round your education and help provide a focus on what you want to do after college. It can also reinforce skills across disciplines and prepare students to work in more than one industry.

8. Calculate possible salaries 

If you want to make a certain amount of money when you get into your career, then you should consider what your average salary could be when you graduate college. You may need to pay off student loans, along with your typical life expenses. Consider what type of life-style you want to live and how the average salary of your career compares.