5 answers
Maia
Student
Averill Park, New York
1
Question
Asked
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What should I major in college if I like these things?
I'm interested in history, Latin, arts (especially fiber arts and photography), and the environment, but I don't like science. I enjoy writing essays for school but I hate taking tests. After school, I would love for my job to be active (physically), or outdoors if possible (obviously not if I end up in certain historian jobs).
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5 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
There are several things that you can do in order to determine what you want to major in when you attend college.
Remember, you will have two years (until you declare a major at the beginning of your junior year in college), to make a final determination, of what you want to do. So, definitely take advantage of this time and complete your General University Requirements (during your first two years), so you can eventually progress into a major.
You might start out by exploring your personal interests and strengths through activities like career assessments and the courses that you will be taking in your first two years. There will be a variety of things, that you will be taking. This includes Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Math, and other courses. So definitely use these classes to determine where your strongest interests are.
Next, research different majors, their course content, and potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with professors and people at the college career center, and investigating job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to start as an undecided student and change your major as you learn more about yourself and different fields.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a major or a future occupation related to that major. Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would have paid someone, so that he could do it every day. His love of his major and occupation was this great.
Remember, you will have two years (until you declare a major at the beginning of your junior year in college), to make a final determination, of what you want to do. So, definitely take advantage of this time and complete your General University Requirements (during your first two years), so you can eventually progress into a major.
You might start out by exploring your personal interests and strengths through activities like career assessments and the courses that you will be taking in your first two years. There will be a variety of things, that you will be taking. This includes Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Math, and other courses. So definitely use these classes to determine where your strongest interests are.
Next, research different majors, their course content, and potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with professors and people at the college career center, and investigating job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to start as an undecided student and change your major as you learn more about yourself and different fields.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a major or a future occupation related to that major. Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would have paid someone, so that he could do it every day. His love of his major and occupation was this great.
Thank you so much! This is incredibly helpful.
Maia
Magan Pinzon
Nursing
23
Answers
Locust, North Carolina
Updated
Magan’s Answer
It sounds like you have a rich mix of interests that could lead to a really fulfilling college experience and career! Based on what you shared—your love for history, Latin, fiber arts, photography, the environment, and writing (but not science or tests)—here are a few majors that might align well with your passions and strengths:
1. Environmental Studies
Focuses more on policy, ethics, and humanities aspects of the environment rather than hard science.
Often includes outdoor fieldwork and community engagement.
Could lead to careers in sustainability, conservation, or environmental education.
2. History or Classical Studies
Perfect for your interest in history and Latin.
Involves a lot of essay writing and research, not many tests.
Could lead to museum work, archival research, education, or cultural preservation.
3. Art or Art History
Combines your love of fiber arts and photography with historical and cultural context.
Studio art programs are hands-on and active.
Art history leans more into writing and analysis.
4. Anthropology or Archaeology
Explores human cultures, often with historical and environmental overlap.
May include fieldwork and travel.
Writing-heavy and less test-focused in many programs.
5. Creative Writing or English
If you enjoy writing essays and storytelling, this could be a great fit.
Can be combined with environmental or historical themes.
You might also consider interdisciplinary majors like:
Humanities (lets you combine history, art, and writing)
Sustainability Studies (often less science-heavy than Environmental Science)
Cultural Studies or Museum Studies
And don’t forget about minors! You could major in something like Environmental Studies and minor in Art or Latin to keep your creative and classical interests alive.
1. Environmental Studies
Focuses more on policy, ethics, and humanities aspects of the environment rather than hard science.
Often includes outdoor fieldwork and community engagement.
Could lead to careers in sustainability, conservation, or environmental education.
2. History or Classical Studies
Perfect for your interest in history and Latin.
Involves a lot of essay writing and research, not many tests.
Could lead to museum work, archival research, education, or cultural preservation.
3. Art or Art History
Combines your love of fiber arts and photography with historical and cultural context.
Studio art programs are hands-on and active.
Art history leans more into writing and analysis.
4. Anthropology or Archaeology
Explores human cultures, often with historical and environmental overlap.
May include fieldwork and travel.
Writing-heavy and less test-focused in many programs.
5. Creative Writing or English
If you enjoy writing essays and storytelling, this could be a great fit.
Can be combined with environmental or historical themes.
You might also consider interdisciplinary majors like:
Humanities (lets you combine history, art, and writing)
Sustainability Studies (often less science-heavy than Environmental Science)
Cultural Studies or Museum Studies
And don’t forget about minors! You could major in something like Environmental Studies and minor in Art or Latin to keep your creative and classical interests alive.
✨ Danuta Chapin, MFA
Designer and Art Director
17
Answers
Arlington Heights, Illinois
Updated
✨ Danuta’s Answer
Hi Maia,
I love your mix of interests and what energizes you. You already have some great answers to guide you, so let's dive in. Please think about the work environment and daily tasks you might enjoy. Your studies are just the beginning. You have a couple of years to pivot and work with a school counselor to help you. Here are some majors that align with your passions and strengths:
• Environmental Studies
Focuses on the cultural, political, and historical dimensions of environmental issues — less lab work, more writing and fieldwork.
Career: Park ranger, sustainability coordinator, environmental educator, nonprofit work, tourism.
• Public History or Museum Studies
Combines history with storytelling, preservation, and community engagement. Often involves hands-on work in archives, museums, or historical sites.
Career: Museum curator, historical interpreter, archivist, cultural resource.
• Art History or Visual Arts (with a focus on Fiber Arts, Fashion, or Textile Design)
In-depth explorations of artistic movements, techniques, and cultural contexts. Studio art programs emphasize portfolio over tests.
Career: Artist, gallery manager, arts educator, textile conservator, Fashion, Textile Designer, photographer.
• Classics or Latin
A classics major lets you explore ancient languages, literature, and history.
Career: Archivist, translator, educator, researcher, and cultural heritage.
• Anthropology or Cultural Studies
Explores human societies, traditions, and artifacts — often through writing and fieldwork. Can be tailored toward environmental or artistic themes.
Career: Field researcher, ethnographer, cultural liaison, nonprofit work.
• Outdoor Education or Recreation Management: You'll work outside and lead programs.
• Historic Preservation or Cultural Resource Management: Combines history with hands-on work in the field.
• Fashion or Textile Design: Merges fiber arts with environmental consciousness and sustainability.
Please remember that you can change your path if you have a change of heart.
Something to think about is that tests are there for you to check your knowledge and progress. I hope your journey aligns perfectly with your dreams!
I love your mix of interests and what energizes you. You already have some great answers to guide you, so let's dive in. Please think about the work environment and daily tasks you might enjoy. Your studies are just the beginning. You have a couple of years to pivot and work with a school counselor to help you. Here are some majors that align with your passions and strengths:
• Environmental Studies
Focuses on the cultural, political, and historical dimensions of environmental issues — less lab work, more writing and fieldwork.
Career: Park ranger, sustainability coordinator, environmental educator, nonprofit work, tourism.
• Public History or Museum Studies
Combines history with storytelling, preservation, and community engagement. Often involves hands-on work in archives, museums, or historical sites.
Career: Museum curator, historical interpreter, archivist, cultural resource.
• Art History or Visual Arts (with a focus on Fiber Arts, Fashion, or Textile Design)
In-depth explorations of artistic movements, techniques, and cultural contexts. Studio art programs emphasize portfolio over tests.
Career: Artist, gallery manager, arts educator, textile conservator, Fashion, Textile Designer, photographer.
• Classics or Latin
A classics major lets you explore ancient languages, literature, and history.
Career: Archivist, translator, educator, researcher, and cultural heritage.
• Anthropology or Cultural Studies
Explores human societies, traditions, and artifacts — often through writing and fieldwork. Can be tailored toward environmental or artistic themes.
Career: Field researcher, ethnographer, cultural liaison, nonprofit work.
• Outdoor Education or Recreation Management: You'll work outside and lead programs.
• Historic Preservation or Cultural Resource Management: Combines history with hands-on work in the field.
• Fashion or Textile Design: Merges fiber arts with environmental consciousness and sustainability.
Please remember that you can change your path if you have a change of heart.
Something to think about is that tests are there for you to check your knowledge and progress. I hope your journey aligns perfectly with your dreams!
Jennifer Horton
Business Operations
5
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Use AI to explore how these can combine into a career that fulfills you and helps you succeed.
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hello! Many people have passions in different areas, and you can definitely find a college major that lets you explore them. Since you like history, Latin, arts, and the environment, but you’re not a fan of science and prefer writing essays over taking tests, here are some ideas for you to consider.
One option could be studying history and the environment. This would allow you to explore how people in the past interacted with nature, which connects your interest in history and the environment. This could also lead to jobs where you work outdoors or in places that focus on preserving history, like parks or historical sites.
Another option is art history or fine arts. Since you love fiber arts and photography, studying art history might allow you to explore the history of different art forms, while fine arts would let you dive into creating your own artwork.
If you enjoy being active and spending time outdoors, you could think about environmental education or outdoor recreation. This would let you teach people about nature, lead outdoor activities, or even work in national parks. Hope this helps. All the best.
One option could be studying history and the environment. This would allow you to explore how people in the past interacted with nature, which connects your interest in history and the environment. This could also lead to jobs where you work outdoors or in places that focus on preserving history, like parks or historical sites.
Another option is art history or fine arts. Since you love fiber arts and photography, studying art history might allow you to explore the history of different art forms, while fine arts would let you dive into creating your own artwork.
If you enjoy being active and spending time outdoors, you could think about environmental education or outdoor recreation. This would let you teach people about nature, lead outdoor activities, or even work in national parks. Hope this helps. All the best.