The first step in the major choosing process is don't panic. Although it may seem like "everyone" you know came to school knowing exactly what their major is, that usually is not the case. Even if they did, the average student changes major two or three times during their four years. So relax, choosing a major is a natural part of the college process. Once you realize this, there are 5 steps to follow that make the process a little easier:
Identify majors of interest - keep all options open at this stage.
-Survey your own interests, skills, and values.
-What courses did you enjoy/were your strongest in high school? Why?
-What courses have you enjoyed/avoided in college? Why?
-What types of extracurricular activities do you enjoy?
-What do you value in work -helping society, stability, status, security?
-Take the Strong Interest Inventory test and Myers Briggs Type Indicator.
-Review the SMC bulletin and eliminate definite "no's", not "maybe's"
Gather information on possible majors.
-Conduct informational interviews with faculty, students, parents, and alumni.
-What is the nature of the coursework - requirements, hours, assignments?
-What types of careers do people pursue with this major?
-What are some drawbacks to this career choice?
-How can I combine major(s), minor(s), and electives to learn what I would like?
-Utilize the Career Resource Ctr, Alumnae Resource Network, and the Internet.
Evaluate majors.
-Gain experience through internships, job shadow, summer jobs, and volunteering.
-Are my interests, goals, and values similar to this department's students?
-Does it allow the flexibility I am looking for in a major?
-Investigate professional/graduate school programs in your areas of interest.
-Does this major prepare me for this program?
-Be honest with yourself.
-Explore the expectations you have for yourself or are feeling from others.
-Though you may value some careers, it is important that you also have an interest in them. Work to overcome the obstacles you can.
Choose major or combination of majors/minors/electives.
-Begin working on whichever major provides the best fit for you.
Evaluate choice; repeat process if necessary.
-Are you happy?
-Are you learning what you want to learn?
-Are there additional courses I could pursue to enhance my education?
BEWARE!! When you choose a major, you are not necessarily choosing a career. Consequently, do not choose a major based solely on job considerations. Studies show that people change careers four or five times throughout their lifetime. Every major allows students to develop the transferable skills - communication, interpersonal, organization - that most jobs require. You will be more successful in a major you enjoy. This will translate into a higher g.p.a., better retention of knowledge, and reduction of stress.
Need some help understanding what career opportunities you will have with various majors? Ever wonder what you can actually do with the major you've already chosen? Take a look at What Can I Do With This Major/Degree. Each title outlines common career areas, typical employers, and strategies designed to maximize career opportunities upon completion of a four-year degree.
