Jennifer
Do employers look at all of the courses a student takes throughout college, or mostly the ones pertaining to their specific major?
I am a college student trying to figure out what I want to major in. I want to know if taking extra courses that are not necessarily major-specific (electives) matter when applying for jobs after graduation. #college-major #job-search
3 answers
Lisa Mark, MA
Lisa’s Answer
Employers care about your Major, your Minor, your GPA and what relevant internship experience you have. All of this needs to relate to the job function and industry that you are applying to. Along with taking some different classes, it would be best if you did some research before you begin college.
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
Jennifer,
When you first finish college, they might show an interest in what you took. As time goes on, they show less of an interest. The exception might be jobs like law enforcement or federal gov't jobs. I have filled out some applications where they want to know how many hours you have in each area. Some job announcements will specify things like "Must have at least 15 hrs of accounting." Everyone in college takes some coursework outside their major. I would not be too concerned, unless they are really controversial subjects. College is designed to give you a well-rounded education!
Kim
Totally agree with Kim. Take courses that interest you, and don't worry too much about future recruiters scrutinizing your class load. I'd like to emphasize that, after about 5 years in the 'real world,' the classes that made up your degree won't matter nearly as much as the fact that you have one. I'd rather hire somebody that pursues their passions and has a broader view of the world/ is interested in more than one, specialized field. Good luck!
Tally Keller
Monica Thomas
Monica’s Answer
Monica recommends the following next steps: