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What tips would you give to a highschool senior struggling to figure out what to major in?
Senior in hs
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15 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
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Paul’s Answer
Something that holds your attention and focus.
Something that you love to read about, even when you are outside the classroom.
I have seen people major in things that can make them a lot of money, but they refuse to have anything to do with it outside of work or the classroom.
I have observed students, who major in subjects like psychology, sitting in the library and reading magazines like Psychology Today, and books and journals about psychology. And these activities were not even related to class assignments.
They just really loved what they were doing and what they were majoring in.
Something that you love to read about, even when you are outside the classroom.
I have seen people major in things that can make them a lot of money, but they refuse to have anything to do with it outside of work or the classroom.
I have observed students, who major in subjects like psychology, sitting in the library and reading magazines like Psychology Today, and books and journals about psychology. And these activities were not even related to class assignments.
They just really loved what they were doing and what they were majoring in.
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PwC’s Answer
Look for majors that have specific classes with class topics that interest you. There will be a job out there that aligns with your interests and the classes you took.
Know that this is your chance to study what you want and still make progress don’t focus on career prospects as much as genuine, academic interests.
Keep an open mind and ask as many people as possible about the creators and melody like it and what the pros and cons are of what they do talk to as many people as you can from different areas of focus.
Know that this is your chance to study what you want and still make progress don’t focus on career prospects as much as genuine, academic interests.
Keep an open mind and ask as many people as possible about the creators and melody like it and what the pros and cons are of what they do talk to as many people as you can from different areas of focus.
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Liana’s Answer
Hi Evelyn,
That's exciting that you're a senior in High School! It depends on what you're looking for. I would encourage you to take some electives that you feel most interested in. For example, you can try taking computer science, engineering, science, psychology, arts, graphic design, photography, music, etc. Once you find a class you're passionate about, you can major in it, and apply for a University or attend a local Community College. If you don't like you're major or find it too complicated, then I will advise you to change major during your senior year in High School, freshman, or sophomore year in College. You can keep exploring and hopefully, you will find a major that works best for you. I wish you the best of luck!
That's exciting that you're a senior in High School! It depends on what you're looking for. I would encourage you to take some electives that you feel most interested in. For example, you can try taking computer science, engineering, science, psychology, arts, graphic design, photography, music, etc. Once you find a class you're passionate about, you can major in it, and apply for a University or attend a local Community College. If you don't like you're major or find it too complicated, then I will advise you to change major during your senior year in High School, freshman, or sophomore year in College. You can keep exploring and hopefully, you will find a major that works best for you. I wish you the best of luck!
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Christina’s Answer
I would suggest volunteering. There are a lot of amazing opportunities out there and volunteering in different areas helps broaden your scope of what is available in your community. And you're giving back which is always rewarding!
Find an area that already interests you and look at a local website and see if they have volunteer programs.
Seek out something new that you've been curious about to give yourself an even greater amount of fields to work in.
Christina recommends the following next steps:
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Melisa’s Answer
Kudos on reaching your senior year! This is indeed a thrilling period in your life. I recommend having a chat with your school counselor. They usually have evaluations at their disposal that can assist you in honing your objectives. Remember, there's no rush to pick an official major. You have the option to focus on general studies during your initial college years. Also, engaging in extracurricular activities that pique your interest is a fantastic strategy. This will help you identify your preferences and areas of interest.
Here's to a successful journey ahead!
Melisa
Here's to a successful journey ahead!
Melisa
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Sean’s Answer
Congratulations on heading into your Senior year...Best of Luck!
If you are planning to make the jump to college after graduation that is fantastic! Entering college can be somewhat overwhelming with the thought that you may need to figure out what your entire life career needs to be decided before you go. You can go into college and get started by taking general study classes to get some credits. Take an intro class into a major that you may have some interest in. If the classes go well you have your path planned!
If you are planning to make the jump to college after graduation that is fantastic! Entering college can be somewhat overwhelming with the thought that you may need to figure out what your entire life career needs to be decided before you go. You can go into college and get started by taking general study classes to get some credits. Take an intro class into a major that you may have some interest in. If the classes go well you have your path planned!
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Jacob’s Answer
Choosing a college major is a significant decision, and it's perfectly normal to feel uncertain as a high school senior. Here are some tips to help you navigate this important choice:
1. **Self-Reflection:** Take time to reflect on your interests, passions, and strengths. Consider the subjects and activities that genuinely excite you or where you excel. Think about what you enjoy doing in your free time.
2. **Explore Your Options:** Research a wide range of majors and careers. Don't limit yourself to what you know; explore new fields and industries. Look into the courses and career paths associated with different majors.
3. **Talk to Advisors and Mentors:** Seek guidance from your high school counselor, teachers, and other trusted adults. They can provide insights into your strengths and interests and help you explore potential majors.
4. **Consider Your Values:** Think about your values and what matters most to you in a career. Are you motivated by helping others, financial stability, creativity, or making a social impact? Your values can guide your choice.
5. **Internships and Job Shadowing:** If possible, try to gain real-world experience through internships or job shadowing. This can provide firsthand insights into different professions and help you determine if they align with your interests.
6. **College Visits:** Visit college campuses and speak with faculty members and students in different departments. This can give you a feel for the academic environment and the culture of each department.
7. **Online Resources:** Utilize online career assessment tools, personality tests, and websites that provide information about various majors and career options. These resources can offer valuable insights.
8. **Consider Long-Term Goals:** Think about your long-term career goals. What kind of lifestyle do you envision? Are there specific industries or roles that align with those goals?
9. **Flexibility:** Keep in mind that many students change their majors during college, and that's okay. Your major doesn't necessarily dictate your entire career path, so don't feel pressured to have everything figured out right away.
10. **Follow Your Passions:** Choose a major that genuinely interests you and that you're excited to study. Passion often leads to success and satisfaction in your academic journey and future career.
11. **Financial Considerations:** Be aware of the potential earning prospects and job opportunities associated with your chosen major. While passion is important, it's also practical to consider the financial aspects.
12. **Seek Advice from College Admissions:** Reach out to the admissions departments of the colleges you're interested in. They can provide information about the majors they offer and their application requirements.
Remember, it's okay to be uncertain, and many students enter college as "undecided." College is a time for exploration and self-discovery. The key is to keep an open mind, stay curious, and be willing to adapt your plans as you learn more about yourself and your interests. Your choice of major is a significant step, but it doesn't have to define your entire career path.
1. **Self-Reflection:** Take time to reflect on your interests, passions, and strengths. Consider the subjects and activities that genuinely excite you or where you excel. Think about what you enjoy doing in your free time.
2. **Explore Your Options:** Research a wide range of majors and careers. Don't limit yourself to what you know; explore new fields and industries. Look into the courses and career paths associated with different majors.
3. **Talk to Advisors and Mentors:** Seek guidance from your high school counselor, teachers, and other trusted adults. They can provide insights into your strengths and interests and help you explore potential majors.
4. **Consider Your Values:** Think about your values and what matters most to you in a career. Are you motivated by helping others, financial stability, creativity, or making a social impact? Your values can guide your choice.
5. **Internships and Job Shadowing:** If possible, try to gain real-world experience through internships or job shadowing. This can provide firsthand insights into different professions and help you determine if they align with your interests.
6. **College Visits:** Visit college campuses and speak with faculty members and students in different departments. This can give you a feel for the academic environment and the culture of each department.
7. **Online Resources:** Utilize online career assessment tools, personality tests, and websites that provide information about various majors and career options. These resources can offer valuable insights.
8. **Consider Long-Term Goals:** Think about your long-term career goals. What kind of lifestyle do you envision? Are there specific industries or roles that align with those goals?
9. **Flexibility:** Keep in mind that many students change their majors during college, and that's okay. Your major doesn't necessarily dictate your entire career path, so don't feel pressured to have everything figured out right away.
10. **Follow Your Passions:** Choose a major that genuinely interests you and that you're excited to study. Passion often leads to success and satisfaction in your academic journey and future career.
11. **Financial Considerations:** Be aware of the potential earning prospects and job opportunities associated with your chosen major. While passion is important, it's also practical to consider the financial aspects.
12. **Seek Advice from College Admissions:** Reach out to the admissions departments of the colleges you're interested in. They can provide information about the majors they offer and their application requirements.
Remember, it's okay to be uncertain, and many students enter college as "undecided." College is a time for exploration and self-discovery. The key is to keep an open mind, stay curious, and be willing to adapt your plans as you learn more about yourself and your interests. Your choice of major is a significant step, but it doesn't have to define your entire career path.
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PwC’s Answer
You can always start by taking a great personality quiz. There are lots of free ones online. Go with your gut you can always change your mind. When deciding on a major, don’t look at it as a be-all-end-all because you can still follow your passion and still end up going into a field that’s different than that.
Take your time.
Take your time.
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PwC’s Answer
Don’t be afraid to try new things networking can help a lot, too.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to high school online on LinkedIn or use cold emails. If there’s no direct family or friends in a field that interests you the worst they can do is not respond. Also, don’t stress you’ve lots of time to figure it out.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to high school online on LinkedIn or use cold emails. If there’s no direct family or friends in a field that interests you the worst they can do is not respond. Also, don’t stress you’ve lots of time to figure it out.
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PwC’s Answer
Everything is meant to be, and it will work out. Think about your strengths and don’t be afraid to switch midway. There are no wrong decisions don’t stress and find what makes you happy.
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PwC’s Answer
You don’t need to know what exactly you want. You can be undecided once you are in college. Try a lot of things and figure it out. You might not know until you try it. Think about careers that align with your hobbies and strengths. Don’t stress about choosing a major yet. Take classes that you think you enjoy until you figure it out. Everyone’s timeline is different. Don’t compare yourself to others.
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PwC’s Answer
Don’t stress you have time to figure out what you like and what interests you sometimes the career path finds you, so just take it one step at a time :-). Participate in everything that comes your way. Find the one that best suits you you will eventually find something that is worthwhile.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3824
Answers
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James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Evelyn,
Here are some straightforward tips for high school seniors who are finding it tough to decide on a college major:
1. Reflect on What You Love and Excel At: Spend some time pondering what you love doing and what you're naturally good at. Think about your hobbies, passions, and talents. Which subjects do you find most engaging? What do you love doing in your spare time? These hints can guide you towards potential majors that match your interests and strengths.
2. Research Possible Careers: Investigate various careers that match your interests and strengths. Look at job descriptions, potential earnings, and advancement opportunities. This can help you whittle down your list of possible majors and select one that will set you up for a satisfying career.
3. Get Guidance from Reliable Sources: Discuss your worries with your parents, teachers, guidance counselors, or other trusted adults. They may have useful advice or suggestions based on their own experiences.
4. Think About Your Personality and How You Learn: Consider how you learn best and what kind of learning environment suits you. For instance, if you're a hands-on learner, you might want to think about majors that involve practical work, like engineering or nursing.
5. It's Okay to Change Your Mind: Many students switch their majors during college. In fact, a study by the National Center for Education Statistics found that 80% of college students switch their majors at least once before they graduate. So, don't stress about picking the "perfect" major immediately. Take your time, explore your options, and stay open to new experiences.
To back up these tips, here are three authoritative reference books:
1. "The College Majors Handbook" by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) gives detailed information on college majors, including job prospects, potential earnings, and necessary courses.
2. "Choosing a Major: A Guide for Students" by the American Council on Education (ACE) provides practical advice on picking a major that matches your interests, abilities, and career aspirations.
3. "The Majors and Careers Handbook" by the University of California, Berkeley's Career Center gives in-depth information on various majors and careers, including job descriptions, potential earnings, and necessary skills.
Remember, picking a major is a big decision, but it's not set in stone. Keep an open mind, explore your options, and don't be scared to change your mind as you journey through college.
God Bless Your Efforts,
JAMES.
Here are some straightforward tips for high school seniors who are finding it tough to decide on a college major:
1. Reflect on What You Love and Excel At: Spend some time pondering what you love doing and what you're naturally good at. Think about your hobbies, passions, and talents. Which subjects do you find most engaging? What do you love doing in your spare time? These hints can guide you towards potential majors that match your interests and strengths.
2. Research Possible Careers: Investigate various careers that match your interests and strengths. Look at job descriptions, potential earnings, and advancement opportunities. This can help you whittle down your list of possible majors and select one that will set you up for a satisfying career.
3. Get Guidance from Reliable Sources: Discuss your worries with your parents, teachers, guidance counselors, or other trusted adults. They may have useful advice or suggestions based on their own experiences.
4. Think About Your Personality and How You Learn: Consider how you learn best and what kind of learning environment suits you. For instance, if you're a hands-on learner, you might want to think about majors that involve practical work, like engineering or nursing.
5. It's Okay to Change Your Mind: Many students switch their majors during college. In fact, a study by the National Center for Education Statistics found that 80% of college students switch their majors at least once before they graduate. So, don't stress about picking the "perfect" major immediately. Take your time, explore your options, and stay open to new experiences.
To back up these tips, here are three authoritative reference books:
1. "The College Majors Handbook" by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) gives detailed information on college majors, including job prospects, potential earnings, and necessary courses.
2. "Choosing a Major: A Guide for Students" by the American Council on Education (ACE) provides practical advice on picking a major that matches your interests, abilities, and career aspirations.
3. "The Majors and Careers Handbook" by the University of California, Berkeley's Career Center gives in-depth information on various majors and careers, including job descriptions, potential earnings, and necessary skills.
Remember, picking a major is a big decision, but it's not set in stone. Keep an open mind, explore your options, and don't be scared to change your mind as you journey through college.
God Bless Your Efforts,
JAMES.
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PwC’s Answer
Here’s something for you to reflect on: is there something in school that is a fun challenge for you? I chose economics as my college major because I noticed that I was always intrigued by the problems in class. It was challenging enough, but not too challenging that I didn’t enjoy myself.