Choosing a Major

Not ready to declare a major?  You're not alone. Many new students are undecided about a major or are uncertain about the choice they have made. Not to worry. . . your first year of college is a great time to explore your options, take a variety of courses and get involved with campus activities. It is important that you be active in the exploration process, however; don't just wait for the inspiration to hit you. . . go out and find it!

Assess Yourself

  • Who are you? What interests you? What are you good at?
  • Talk with an advisor in the Career Center or Academic Support Services
  • Take advantage of a variety of personality and career assessment tools available in the Career Center and Academic Support Services
  • Visit the Counseling Center

 

Gather Information

It's tough to make a decision if you don't know your options; consider the following and find out more:

  • Read the college catalog for descriptions of courses and academic programs
  • Visit the Career Center's Resource Library for information on internships, career, exchange programs and choosing a major
  • Check out the "What Can I do with a Major in...?" section on the Career Center Web site
  • Talk to other students who are majoring in the programs you find interesting
  • Talk with faculty, staff, alumni or community members in the fields you are considering
     

 

Get Involved/Gain Experience

Students who are engaged in campus activities are more successful and gain valuable experience that may help you to choose a major and a career. Here are some ways to get involved:

  • Join a club
  • Volunteer through the Center for Service Learning
  • Get involved with the Student Association
  • Consider the National Student Exchange or study abroad
  • Participate in athletics (varsity and intramural)
  • Find a campus/work-study job
  • Participate in an internship

 

Choosing a Major

By your second year, you will have likely arrived at a decision or at least narrowed your search down to a couple of academic areas (consider combining a major and minor if you find yourself torn between two or more programs).  Don't procrastinate — see an advisor in the department(s) you are interested in as early as possible to review the program requirements and map out a plan toward your degree.

Remember, choosing a major does not mean that the exploration process is over.  Stay involved, seek out new experiences and strive to make the connection between your education and life beyond JSC.