How soon should you pick your major?
I'm a freshman who is majoring in Political Science, but not quite positive that it is the major I want for good. #college-admissions #college-majors
6 answers
Matthew’s Answer
Katherine, thanks for posting this question; it's definitely important to consider as you move forward in your time at college. In terms of when you should pick your major, it tends to vary from school to school. What I mean is, some colleges may require students to declare a major but the end of their freshmen year while other students may be required to declare at the end of their sophomore year. In order to graduate in four years with all of your required courses, it's best to select something you enjoy early and explore it, and should you decide to change your mind, you still have time to switch majors. It's very common for students to switch majors several times before finally arriving at the best major for them in terms of interest and career opportunities. Only you know what that is, and if you're not sure now, that's OK. You'll discover this soon. I'd encourage you to consider contacting your academic advisor for more assistance and help in terms of selecting the best major for you, as well as talking to others you know (friends on campus or students in majors you're interested in) for more insight.
Best of luck!
Matt
John’s Answer
Political Science is a good major, but there are lots of good majors! You can change your major at any time and probably will change it at least once. As you take classes, when you like a particular class, I would recommend taking more classes like that.
My only warning is if you switch too much, it will become difficult to complete the requirements for ANY major which will push out your graduation date. However, don't feel stuck. The most important thing is to get A degree.
Whitney’s Answer
Jorie’s Answer
Rachael’s Answer
I would suggest declaring sooner rather than later so you can taking the intro and intermediate courses early to determine if that is what you want to do. In my college experience, all freshman took the general introductory courses to all majors (i.e. everyone took an ACCT 101, FIN101, MGMT 101, ECON 101, etc.) however only majors, minors, or associated major/minors would take the additional courses (201, 302, ect.). You may discover during some of those other introductory courses you discover something you are more passionate about. I found the intermediate and upper level courses were really where students were weeded out of my major. So my advice would be to take your political science courses as early as possible. I also double majored because I was very passionate about another major which was associated with what I declared - could be a possibility for you in the event you discover another one but still want to stick with political science. Something like economics, communications, history might pair well depending on what area interests you. You could also discuss your reservation with your professor who could have you sit in on an upper level course so you could get an idea of what it's like. Shadowing a professional in the field can give you a glimpse of what a career in it could lead to too!
Best of luck,
Rachael
