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How do I go about selecting a major as an incoming college freshmen, when as a 17 year old girl, haven't found my "passion" yet ?

I love being outside and don't necessarily think I want to be in an office all day.

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C’s Answer

Hi Sarah! First of all, you’re not alone — so many students feel the same way at your age (I definitely did too!).

The truth is, you don’t need to have it all figured out right now. College is a time to explore. Instead of looking for one “passion,” try asking yourself: What classes have I enjoyed? What kinds of problems do I like solving? Do I like helping people, building things, being creative, organizing, researching, etc.? Start there, and don’t be afraid to try electives, clubs, or volunteer work to see what sparks your interest.

Also, remember: your major doesn’t define your entire future. So many people change careers later on, and skills like communication, leadership, empathy, and critical thinking are valuable in any field.

Take your time, stay curious, and don’t stress — growth comes with experience, not overnight. You got this!
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Andrew’s Answer

At 17, time is on your side. You do not have to commit to a college major and future career path yet.

On the other hand, if you have already found your passion, you can align your high-school curriculum to best prepare you for the upcoming college endeavor, especially if you are looking at the STEM field of study.

Hence, you should start asking what you would like to do for your future career and life. What subject would you find exciting.

There are career paths available for individuals who prefer working outdoors. Would the idea of doing field work excite you? For example, there are field work in biology, environmental sciences, geology, just to list a few.
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Jimmy’s Answer

When I was applying to university. The last thing I was focused on was my major area of study and I had no idea what I wanted to do. My first year I selected sports and leisure studies cause it seemed like the easiest thing to get started. Then I did a stand in the business school for less than a year. At the end of my second year I was in a bookstore and happened to come across a very large book on nutrition, which was the dietary guidelines published in full. I couldn't stop putting it down and reading it and within weeks, change my major to nutrition and change the entire course of my life. This was done at the end of my second year before I started my third year and I ended up completing my nutrition degree in five years. I wouldn't worry so much about having it figured out or knowing what your passion is. I would worry more about trying to quit the noise around you to let the passion from inside come out.
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Firstly, you need to find out what careers you have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Thank you comment icon Rebecca, thank you! Sarah
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Denesha’s Answer

Something I wish I had done before picking a major - is not picking one so soon. It's okay not to know in your first year of college. It's the time to get to know yourself and who you want to become. You can choose Liberal Arts/General Studies until you find the field you want to be in. While you are in your first year, definitely take the time to get to know yourself. Just know that you are constantly changing and growing as a person. Who you are now will not be who you'll be in 5 years. 10 years. 15 years.

Personally, when I was your age I wanted to be a writer and business owner who traveled the world and worked with people from all walks of life. And I did become that—just not the way I planned. Now I'm getting ready to go back to school for my second Master's in Human Resources, and do some more traveling abroad.

Hope this helps!
Thank you comment icon Thank you for giving me advice. Sarah
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