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How do you pick a major for college? I want to go into business, event management, or marketing, but I'm not entirely sure.
I'm raising a senior in high school and considering a business major. However, I am not 100% sure. Also, I want to pursue a well-paying field. I would appreciate your help.
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15 answers
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Tanvi,
I bring over 25 years of experience in the business world, beginning with entry-level roles and steadily advancing through hard work, leadership, and strategic thinking to reach the executive level. My career has spanned a wide range of responsibilities, providing me with a deep understanding of business operations from the ground floor to the boardroom.
Choosing a college major starts with understanding your interests, strengths, and career goals. Since you’re considering business, event management, or marketing, you’re already thinking in the right direction—these are all strong fields with good opportunities. If you’re looking for a well-paying and flexible option, majoring in business is a great starting point. It allows you to explore different areas like marketing or management and decide what fits best. You don’t have to have it all figured out right away—start broad, get involved in internships or student organizations, and let experience help guide your path.
Thoughts:
If you’re not 100% sure yet, choose a broad major that gives you room to specialize later. For example:
• Major in Business Administration or Management - Minor in Marketing or Event Planning
• Major in Marketing - Take electives in Entrepreneurship, Event Planning, or Data Analytics
Most schools also let you change majors during your first two years, so you don’t need to lock everything in immediately.
Try These Steps Now:
1. Take career/interest assessments (like Holland Code or MBTI + career match).
2. Job shadow or intern with someone in marketing or event management.
3. Join DECA, FBLA, or volunteer for events to get hands-on experience.
4. Tour colleges and ask about their business/marketing programs.
More Advice:
• Business is the safest and most versatile major if you’re unsure.
• You can specialize later with internships or a master’s degree (e.g., MBA, marketing analytics, etc.).
• Don’t stress about choosing the “perfect” major right away — what you do during college (internships, networking, leadership) often matters as much as the title of your degree.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
I bring over 25 years of experience in the business world, beginning with entry-level roles and steadily advancing through hard work, leadership, and strategic thinking to reach the executive level. My career has spanned a wide range of responsibilities, providing me with a deep understanding of business operations from the ground floor to the boardroom.
Choosing a college major starts with understanding your interests, strengths, and career goals. Since you’re considering business, event management, or marketing, you’re already thinking in the right direction—these are all strong fields with good opportunities. If you’re looking for a well-paying and flexible option, majoring in business is a great starting point. It allows you to explore different areas like marketing or management and decide what fits best. You don’t have to have it all figured out right away—start broad, get involved in internships or student organizations, and let experience help guide your path.
Thoughts:
If you’re not 100% sure yet, choose a broad major that gives you room to specialize later. For example:
• Major in Business Administration or Management - Minor in Marketing or Event Planning
• Major in Marketing - Take electives in Entrepreneurship, Event Planning, or Data Analytics
Most schools also let you change majors during your first two years, so you don’t need to lock everything in immediately.
Try These Steps Now:
1. Take career/interest assessments (like Holland Code or MBTI + career match).
2. Job shadow or intern with someone in marketing or event management.
3. Join DECA, FBLA, or volunteer for events to get hands-on experience.
4. Tour colleges and ask about their business/marketing programs.
More Advice:
• Business is the safest and most versatile major if you’re unsure.
• You can specialize later with internships or a master’s degree (e.g., MBA, marketing analytics, etc.).
• Don’t stress about choosing the “perfect” major right away — what you do during college (internships, networking, leadership) often matters as much as the title of your degree.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
Updated
Sean’s Answer
Hi Tanvi,
Once you find a college you like, try talking to your College Academic Advisor. They can help you figure out what you want to do. It's perfectly fine to start college undecided and later choose a major that suits you. This process might seem scary, but you're not alone. I believe you'll find a great major that leads to a good job.
I wish you the best of luck. This is an exciting time in your life, and I'm sure everything will work out wonderfully for you.
Once you find a college you like, try talking to your College Academic Advisor. They can help you figure out what you want to do. It's perfectly fine to start college undecided and later choose a major that suits you. This process might seem scary, but you're not alone. I believe you'll find a great major that leads to a good job.
I wish you the best of luck. This is an exciting time in your life, and I'm sure everything will work out wonderfully for you.
Updated
Sherri’s Answer
My suggestion is to go in with an open mind. Take a few classes in each area you are interested in and allow those classes to reveal to you what you love most. Chat with professors every opportunity you can to gather more info and learn about career options, which might help guide your decisions.
Always know you will wind up where you are mean to be!
Always know you will wind up where you are mean to be!
Updated
Shawn’s Answer
If you want to go into business for yourself, it's a great idea to consider a Major that could provide you with the one thing you need no matter what type of business you decide to start, franchise, purchase or invest in.... And that's a Major in Sales & Marketing.
If you learn during your college years how to market yourself, an organization, a product and outcome delivered, there's nothing that can stop you from finding success early in your career.
If you learn during your college years how to market yourself, an organization, a product and outcome delivered, there's nothing that can stop you from finding success early in your career.
Updated
Nico’s Answer
Hi Tanvi
This is an exciting time with many changes in business and job roles. It can also feel overwhelming when deciding what skills to learn. First, think about whether you like to specialize in one area or enjoy being a generalist. I chose to be a generalist and studied Business Administration with Marketing and Communications, which helped me in various roles like Supply Chain, Product Marketing, Services Sales, and People Management, all in different countries. Each job helped me learn and grow. You can always choose to specialize later if you want. Good pay comes from many things, but if you enjoy what you do and excel in the right setting, success will follow. Hope this helps, and I wish you all the best.
This is an exciting time with many changes in business and job roles. It can also feel overwhelming when deciding what skills to learn. First, think about whether you like to specialize in one area or enjoy being a generalist. I chose to be a generalist and studied Business Administration with Marketing and Communications, which helped me in various roles like Supply Chain, Product Marketing, Services Sales, and People Management, all in different countries. Each job helped me learn and grow. You can always choose to specialize later if you want. Good pay comes from many things, but if you enjoy what you do and excel in the right setting, success will follow. Hope this helps, and I wish you all the best.
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Tanvi,
That’s a smart and thoughtful place to be—wanting to choose a well-paying field while also considering what you enjoy. You're not alone in feeling unsure, and the good news is that you have options that can still leave room for exploration.
Here’s a breakdown to help you pick a major:
1. Know Yourself First (Interest + Strength + Lifestyle Fit)
Ask:
• What classes or activities do I enjoy most?
• What am I good at? (Organizing? Leading? Writing? Selling?)
• What kind of lifestyle do I want? (Travel? Flexible schedule? Stability?)
For example:
• If you love planning, working with people, and organizing experiences, Event Management could be a great fit.
• If you’re drawn to creativity, social media, trends, and communication, Marketing may be a match.
• If you're unsure but enjoy leadership, money topics, and problem-solving, General Business or Business Administration gives you flexibility.
2. Understand the Majors You’re Considering
Major Strengths Potential Careers Average Salary
Marketing Creative, people-focused Marketing manager, brand strategist, digital marketing $50K–$135K+
Business Administration Versatile, leadership-focused Management, consulting, operations $50K–$120K+
Event Management Organizational, detail-oriented Event planner, hospitality manager $35K–$75K+
If you care more about income potential, Marketing or Business Admin may offer a faster path to higher earnings than Event Management, unless you own your own business.
3. Choose a Flexible Major (if you're unsure)
A Business Administration or Marketing degree gives you broad options and lets you specialize later.
Bonus tip: many schools allow you to declare “pre-business” or start as “undecided business” for the first year or two—giving you time to take intro courses in marketing, event planning, economics, or even entrepreneurship before committing.
4. Try Before You Decide
Do any of the following to test the waters:
• Take dual enrollment or community college classes in business or marketing
• Shadow a professional (event planner, marketer, or business owner)
• Join school clubs like DECA, FBLA, or a marketing club
• Intern or volunteer at events, small businesses, or nonprofits
5. Well-Paying Career Ideas That Blend Your Interests
• Event Marketing Specialist (marketing + event planning)
• Brand Manager (business + creative direction)
• Hospitality Business Owner (event management + business)
• Digital Marketing Analyst (marketing + data = $$$)
• Corporate Event Coordinator (well-paying in larger companies)
6. Recommended Path if You’re Still Unsure
1. Start as a Business Major – versatile, respected, and easy to switch within
2. Take electives in marketing, event planning, and entrepreneurship
3. Get involved on campus to gain real-world experience
4. By sophomore year, you can choose a more specific major or concentration
That’s a smart and thoughtful place to be—wanting to choose a well-paying field while also considering what you enjoy. You're not alone in feeling unsure, and the good news is that you have options that can still leave room for exploration.
Here’s a breakdown to help you pick a major:
1. Know Yourself First (Interest + Strength + Lifestyle Fit)
Ask:
• What classes or activities do I enjoy most?
• What am I good at? (Organizing? Leading? Writing? Selling?)
• What kind of lifestyle do I want? (Travel? Flexible schedule? Stability?)
For example:
• If you love planning, working with people, and organizing experiences, Event Management could be a great fit.
• If you’re drawn to creativity, social media, trends, and communication, Marketing may be a match.
• If you're unsure but enjoy leadership, money topics, and problem-solving, General Business or Business Administration gives you flexibility.
2. Understand the Majors You’re Considering
Major Strengths Potential Careers Average Salary
Marketing Creative, people-focused Marketing manager, brand strategist, digital marketing $50K–$135K+
Business Administration Versatile, leadership-focused Management, consulting, operations $50K–$120K+
Event Management Organizational, detail-oriented Event planner, hospitality manager $35K–$75K+
If you care more about income potential, Marketing or Business Admin may offer a faster path to higher earnings than Event Management, unless you own your own business.
3. Choose a Flexible Major (if you're unsure)
A Business Administration or Marketing degree gives you broad options and lets you specialize later.
Bonus tip: many schools allow you to declare “pre-business” or start as “undecided business” for the first year or two—giving you time to take intro courses in marketing, event planning, economics, or even entrepreneurship before committing.
4. Try Before You Decide
Do any of the following to test the waters:
• Take dual enrollment or community college classes in business or marketing
• Shadow a professional (event planner, marketer, or business owner)
• Join school clubs like DECA, FBLA, or a marketing club
• Intern or volunteer at events, small businesses, or nonprofits
5. Well-Paying Career Ideas That Blend Your Interests
• Event Marketing Specialist (marketing + event planning)
• Brand Manager (business + creative direction)
• Hospitality Business Owner (event management + business)
• Digital Marketing Analyst (marketing + data = $$$)
• Corporate Event Coordinator (well-paying in larger companies)
6. Recommended Path if You’re Still Unsure
1. Start as a Business Major – versatile, respected, and easy to switch within
2. Take electives in marketing, event planning, and entrepreneurship
3. Get involved on campus to gain real-world experience
4. By sophomore year, you can choose a more specific major or concentration
Updated
Marty’s Answer
Well paying fields will come and go - I'd follow your interest and dig in. A business degree is useful for everything and anything.
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Tanvi!
This is a great question especially since you are still in high school. Picking a major is a big choice so i would say the best thing to do is to look at it from the lens of what you would like to do and what you would like to learn more about. Which it appears you've already got some ideas. Now I would say ask yourself how can I get experience with these types of things to see if I REALLY like them and want to pursue them. For event management and marketing these are things that you can likely do today. If you are a part of any clubs and they do fundraising or they have events or trips etc that need to be coordinated you should volunteer and try your hand. This will give you hands on experience with what it's like to manage a project or program in the way that a marketer would. From the initial ideation (coming up with ideas) to ultimately executing the plan and tracking the overall results. IF you try this and like it then I would say that there's a good chance that you will really like marketing and event management. College will have a TON more opportunities for you to test those skillsets from the day you step on campus.
This is a great question especially since you are still in high school. Picking a major is a big choice so i would say the best thing to do is to look at it from the lens of what you would like to do and what you would like to learn more about. Which it appears you've already got some ideas. Now I would say ask yourself how can I get experience with these types of things to see if I REALLY like them and want to pursue them. For event management and marketing these are things that you can likely do today. If you are a part of any clubs and they do fundraising or they have events or trips etc that need to be coordinated you should volunteer and try your hand. This will give you hands on experience with what it's like to manage a project or program in the way that a marketer would. From the initial ideation (coming up with ideas) to ultimately executing the plan and tracking the overall results. IF you try this and like it then I would say that there's a good chance that you will really like marketing and event management. College will have a TON more opportunities for you to test those skillsets from the day you step on campus.
Updated
Marty’s Answer
When I started college, I was in a similar spot. I chose to study Computer Science because it's useful in almost any job. This choice opened doors for me in banking, healthcare, manufacturing, and utilities. I suggest picking a major that gives you flexibility.
Also, try to take courses in Project Management. We all manage projects in some way.
Lastly, explore a variety of classes. I chose a BA in Computer Science at the University of Buffalo, which let me take non-computer courses too. While my friends focused solely on computer classes, I enjoyed subjects like Intro to Piano, Film Comedy, and Skiing 101. This made my college experience more enjoyable and taught me valuable life lessons.
Best of luck to you!
Also, try to take courses in Project Management. We all manage projects in some way.
Lastly, explore a variety of classes. I chose a BA in Computer Science at the University of Buffalo, which let me take non-computer courses too. While my friends focused solely on computer classes, I enjoyed subjects like Intro to Piano, Film Comedy, and Skiing 101. This made my college experience more enjoyable and taught me valuable life lessons.
Best of luck to you!
Updated
John’s Answer
FIND WHAT YOU LOVE
1. Connect with Like-Minded People
Reach out to others who share your passions. Ask them:
• How did they find what excites them?
• Why do they love what they do? Their stories can inspire your own path.
2. Find Joy in What You Do
Pursue activities and careers that bring you joy. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to explore new options. Happiness in your work is a worthy goal.
3. Stay Open to Change
Your choices today don’t have to be your choices forever. Life is full of twists and turns—embrace them. Growth often comes from the unexpected.
4. Let Your Path Unfold
Trust that every experience is preparing you for what’s next. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Sometimes, the best opportunities find you when you least expect them.
5. Give Yourself Permission to Evolve
Always allow yourself the chance to change, grow, and reinvent. You are not locked into any one identity or career. Your journey is yours to shape.
Believe in your path. Enjoy the adventure. And never stop exploring!
1. Connect with Like-Minded People
Reach out to others who share your passions. Ask them:
• How did they find what excites them?
• Why do they love what they do? Their stories can inspire your own path.
2. Find Joy in What You Do
Pursue activities and careers that bring you joy. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to explore new options. Happiness in your work is a worthy goal.
3. Stay Open to Change
Your choices today don’t have to be your choices forever. Life is full of twists and turns—embrace them. Growth often comes from the unexpected.
4. Let Your Path Unfold
Trust that every experience is preparing you for what’s next. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Sometimes, the best opportunities find you when you least expect them.
5. Give Yourself Permission to Evolve
Always allow yourself the chance to change, grow, and reinvent. You are not locked into any one identity or career. Your journey is yours to shape.
Believe in your path. Enjoy the adventure. And never stop exploring!
Updated
Larissa’s Answer
Lots of great advice has already been posted. I want to add that declaring a major doesn't have to be permanent. Part of being in college is exploring new subjects (for you, business-related), and you'll learn what interests you and what doesn't. Some schools offer internships, volunteer opportunities, etc. Take advantage of those things, too. Each experience will help you determine your career path. The other advice I have is to try everything! Careers ebb and flow. I don't know too many people who graduate with a particular major who haven't had other experiences/opportunities to expand their skills/knowledge/experience.
For example, I have a Business Administration degree with a minor in Economics. I also have an MBA with a focus on International business. Over the course of my 30-year career, I've worked in manufacturing (to get in the door), international expediting, marketing, equipment forecasting, product management, and for the last 15 years or so, Internal Communications. Each experience was a valuable one. I met new people, learned about the business, and expanded my knowledge. It's been great.
Good luck to you!
For example, I have a Business Administration degree with a minor in Economics. I also have an MBA with a focus on International business. Over the course of my 30-year career, I've worked in manufacturing (to get in the door), international expediting, marketing, equipment forecasting, product management, and for the last 15 years or so, Internal Communications. Each experience was a valuable one. I met new people, learned about the business, and expanded my knowledge. It's been great.
Good luck to you!
Updated
Rui’s Answer
Choosing a college major is a big step for high school students. It's wonderful that you're guiding the senior you’re raising to approach this thoughtfully. Seeking advice now is a smart move. Start by identifying their interests, strengths, and values. A career that matches their personality and skills can lead to lasting happiness. Also, remember to think about practical things like job growth, salary, and education needs.
Encourage them to check out free career websites like:
- MyMajors: This site has a quick quiz that suggests college majors based on their academic strengths and interests.
- Roadtrip Nation | Find Your Career Roadmap: This site offers inspiring video interviews with professionals sharing their journeys and studies.
These sites are great for ideas, but it's up to the student to think about what they learn and see how it fits their own life. The insights they gain, along with self-reflection on what drives them, will help lay a strong foundation for their future. It's important for them to trust their instincts as they carefully explore the right path.
Encourage them to check out free career websites like:
- MyMajors: This site has a quick quiz that suggests college majors based on their academic strengths and interests.
- Roadtrip Nation | Find Your Career Roadmap: This site offers inspiring video interviews with professionals sharing their journeys and studies.
These sites are great for ideas, but it's up to the student to think about what they learn and see how it fits their own life. The insights they gain, along with self-reflection on what drives them, will help lay a strong foundation for their future. It's important for them to trust their instincts as they carefully explore the right path.
Updated
Ken’s Answer
Hi Tanvi,
Lots of great advice here. I have found that this really depends on your personality. If you are one that gets to a decision quick and strives toward those goals then go ahead and whittle your choices down and pick. If that is not your personality type, my recommendation would be not to force it. Try different things and see which one strikes a chord with you. Clearly, you would like something that pays well and most who attend college think this way : ) This information is readily available on the internet. (LinkedIn, Salary.com, Glassdoor to name a few)
Lots of great advice here. I have found that this really depends on your personality. If you are one that gets to a decision quick and strives toward those goals then go ahead and whittle your choices down and pick. If that is not your personality type, my recommendation would be not to force it. Try different things and see which one strikes a chord with you. Clearly, you would like something that pays well and most who attend college think this way : ) This information is readily available on the internet. (LinkedIn, Salary.com, Glassdoor to name a few)
Updated
Stephen’s Answer
Hi Tanvi. It's fantastic that you have clear ideas about what you want to do. Studying economics in college can be a great way to start your journey into marketing or brand management. If you choose to study business as an undergraduate, many schools offer strong programs that can lead you directly into those fields. Wishing you the best of luck!
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Have you thought about what careers you have interest? The relevant subjects of the careers would be the major and minor you choose in colleges.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Given you have interest in business, event management, marketing, etc. would you like to be an accountant, finance manager, public relation, media marketing, human resources, business administration, etc. You can find out more relevant careers online
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 careers 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!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Given you have interest in business, event management, marketing, etc. would you like to be an accountant, finance manager, public relation, media marketing, human resources, business administration, etc. You can find out more relevant careers online
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 careers 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!