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Feeling indecisive-how'd you decide on your major?

I'm basically torn between graphic design, culinary arts and nutrition. My college doesn't offer minors. Since I took graphic design at vocational school and liked it pretty well, I'm thinking about continuing and learning more. But realistically, I don't do as much drawing as I used to, although I consider myself a very creative person. Culinary Arts sounded nice; I'm pretty interested in cooking because it combines world culture and art. But while cooking is fun, I'm pretty rusty, and I get scared off by things like heat and oil. I'm more drawn to cooking my favorite things, and I think at the end of the day I'm more of a baking person. The sound of being a line cook, cooking the same things over and over at rapid speed sounds off-putting. I like the sound of nutrition because while it has to do with food, it's not all about cooking. I find it neat that an every day, delicious thing like food can basically be your medicine, and that could give me a chance to help people. I'd have to take liberal arts first since they don't actually offer nutrition at my college(I'm starting at community college and then transferring). I know I could probably take liberal arts anyway and explore what I really like, but ahh, the other options are appealing. Liberal arts would cut out culinary arts because here in Maine there aren't any 4 year culinary programs. Along with being creative, I love foreign cultures, being hands- on, expressing myself, helping others and making them feel good. How'd you decide? It's almost the start of school and I should really make up my mind! #school #majors #major #college #nutrition #culinaryarts #graphic-design

school major majors graphic-design nutrition culinaryarts
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Katherine’s Answer

Oh, Samantha, do I ever feel this question!! I didn't decide on a major until the beginning of my junior year...and 17 years later, I am STILL not sure I picked the right one!


First, the good news: a lot of the time, your college major doesn't matter in the long run. There are obviously exceptions, and it can help for your first job, but long term, your work ethic and your effort will mean the most.


Based on what you described, my two cents would be to major in graphic design because you'll get trained in specific technology, but it has an artistic and expressive component.


But honestly, you don't need a major right away. Take as many different classes as you can, take inventory of what gives you pleasure, and don't be afraid to change your mind! Good luck!
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Darryl’s Answer

Hi Samantha,


I know it can feel like everything hinges on deciding your major before you start college, but I hope you're not stressing too much over it. The truth is, college is a great place to figure out what you want to study (even if you think you already know). I considered a few other careers like architectural rendering and medical illustrator, mostly at the urging of my father (a college social worker and guidance counselor). In the end, however, I knew that Visual Communication offered me the greatest flexibility in pursuing a job as a Creative after I graduated.


I had friends and met plenty of other students who were undecided for their first couple of YEARS of college. Some people just need to try different things before deciding which one is the best fit. In some ways, I wish I had been more experimental with my class choices when I was in school. I was pretty focused on my degree plan, and probably missed out on some educational opportunities that may have impacted the way I work today.


Ultimately, you need to decide whether you want to express your creativity visually, through food, or utilizing science. That's not to say there can't be any crossover between those choices. It's more a matter of where you want to focus the majority of your energy and talents. Self-doubt is fairly common, but don't let that incapacitate you. Pick a direction, give it your best effort, and see where it takes you. Even though it may not feel like it, rest assured that you can always change your mind and try something else if your first choice doesn't work out. Trust your instincts, and have fun in school. Good luck!

Darryl recommends the following next steps:

Research, read, and do as much as possible to figure out the pros and cons of your various choices. There is no such thing as a career with no negative aspects. Decide which items are tolerable, and which are not acceptable.
Once you've made a decision, attend enough classes and submerge yourself as deeply as necessary to see if the course work is going to benefit you in the long run. If you're constantly frustrated and/or feel like you're just going through the motions because its part of your declared major, stop and re-evaluate your decision. It's better to figure this out while you're still in school than to graduate with a degree in something you have no interest in pursuing as a career.
Take advantage of being a student! Talk to classmates, teachers, and others about ANYTHING you're questioning. You will literally never have better access to other people and their opinions than when you're in school.
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Roland’s Answer

Take the time to decide what you are

most passionate about and what you see yourself doing in your future. It’s never a “job” when you love what you do! I have many passions but technology is my favorite. I chose a job and a major that allows me to touch many lives and enjoy all sorts of tech. You can do the same! lovewhatyoudo

Roland recommends the following next steps:

Talk to your family and friends to get a better understanding of your biggest strength!
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