2 answers
1
Question
Asked
111 views
How do I know if psychology is the right major for me?
I've struggled deciding a major as a first-year in university. Psychology has always been interesting to me in the past, but I'm not sure if I'm completely passionate about it. Since there are no other fields that catch my eye, I have been sticking with psych so far. Is there anything specific I should know about this major before committing to it?
#Spring25
Login to comment
2 answers
Updated
Collette’s Answer
Hi Erica,
Deciding if a psychology major is right for you is something only you can know. As a psychology major myself, I might be a bit biased, but I truly believe you'll feel it's the right path if it comes naturally to you. Psychology is all about understanding the human mind and behavior, and it's everywhere in our lives. Some may think it's not a real science, but it provides answers to important questions like "who," "what," "when," "where," and "why." Plus, psychology is a versatile field that you can shape to fit your interests. If another subject grabs your attention, you can often blend it with psychology to create something unique. For instance, combining psychology with business leads to industrial-organizational psychology, and mixing it with criminal justice creates forensic psychology. There are also fields like sports psychology, pastoral psychology, and developmental psychology. Psychology is a broad and flexible study that you can customize to suit what you love.
Deciding if a psychology major is right for you is something only you can know. As a psychology major myself, I might be a bit biased, but I truly believe you'll feel it's the right path if it comes naturally to you. Psychology is all about understanding the human mind and behavior, and it's everywhere in our lives. Some may think it's not a real science, but it provides answers to important questions like "who," "what," "when," "where," and "why." Plus, psychology is a versatile field that you can shape to fit your interests. If another subject grabs your attention, you can often blend it with psychology to create something unique. For instance, combining psychology with business leads to industrial-organizational psychology, and mixing it with criminal justice creates forensic psychology. There are also fields like sports psychology, pastoral psychology, and developmental psychology. Psychology is a broad and flexible study that you can customize to suit what you love.
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Erica, psychology as an undergraduate major can truly apply itself to most any career path. However, it sounds like you are questioning things; you are in a good place to do this. I don't know what other subjects are offered or your personal interests I cannot tell you exactly what to do- nor would I anyway as I might get it wrong. Here are some subjects that you might look at that are similar (in the realm of humanities and social sciences)- anthropology, sociology, religious studies, education, social work, criminal justice, philosophy, women's studies, and gender studies. Nursing is not directly related but you will learn about mental health aspects in terms of treating patients. A psychology BA could lead to graduate work or employment in human resources, counseling, law, social work, occupational therapy, marketing, public health, and more. You may also enter into nonprofit work- grant writing, development, or management. It may be useful to meet with your department advisor to discuss the possibilities. If you have an academic advisor (may be the same individual) you can review your current credits and explore the possibility of trying some different types of classes. I am wondering if part of this uncertainty may have to do with the "what next" question- for instance, what will all this work eventually produce? Knowing career options might influence your next steps. Being able to express yourself well through writing, excel at oral presentation, and gain solid study skills will also set you up for a successful career- no matter what topic you study. Perhaps go out of your comfort zone and try something you never thought you'd enjoy. One way to dip a toe in- ask to sit in on a class that is taking place now. You don't need to be enrolled in the course to do this- just ask permission from the professor. Talk with other psychology students to learn their own reasons for studying the subject. Try picturing your life outside of school (if you can); where are you in the world? What are you doing? How do you feel? What is your life like? Sometimes personality tests are useful; you can also look at meeting with a career coach or life coach. My advice- don't rely on one source of information to inform you. Think about this time in your life as one big exploration- you are getting to know who you are and what you want to contribute to the world. This is an important question and one that may take time to discover- even a lifetime! Give yourself grace in the not knowing. It will all unfold as you gain more experience. If you find you are becoming more lost and confused, you might consider taking time off to travel or volunteer or spend a year of school abroad. We are 'told' to go to college, get a degree, and get a job. But in reality, you are in charge of your own life trajectory; you might as well enjoy the ride. I say this not knowing your exact circumstances; my point being for you to stray from the path if that is where your soul is guiding you to go. Follow your intuition. And continue to take risks in life to build the courage and resiliency you will need going forwards! Best of luck on this adventure that is your life! Ultimately, your degree will not define everything about you. It is simply a building block to take you to the next one, propelling you into your fabulous future!