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How do I figure out what I should major in When should I have my major figured out by?

I'm not sure what I'm interested in yet. I'm a junior in high school, and I don't know what to major in. I know the topics that I don't want to major in, but I don't know what I want.

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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Mai,

Guidelines to Determine Your Ideal Major

Selecting a major can seem like an overwhelming task, particularly if you're unsure about your interests. Here are some actionable steps to assist you in determining your ideal major:

1. Discover your hobbies and passions: Reflect on the subjects you find engaging and the activities you enjoy during your leisure time. This could help you pinpoint potential areas of interest that might correlate with a major.

2. Utilize career assessments: Numerous online tools and career evaluations can assist you in understanding your strengths, skills, and potential career trajectories. These evaluations can offer insights into which majors could align with your interests and abilities.

3. Investigate various majors: Delve into the different majors your school or university offers. Learn about the courses, prerequisites, and potential career trajectories for each major. This can assist you in narrowing down your choices and identifying which fields might intrigue you.

4. Consult advisors and professors: Solicit advice from your school's academic advisors or professors in the fields you're contemplating. They can offer valuable insights into the majors and help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of each choice.

5. Experience a related field: If feasible, attempt to shadow someone in a field that piques your interest or secure an internship. This can provide you with a deeper understanding of what a career in that field entails and help you decide if it's the right fit for you.

6. Contemplate practical factors: Consider factors like job prospects, potential earnings, and the overall job market for various majors. This can assist you in making an informed decision about which major to pursue based on pragmatic considerations.

When is the Ideal Time to Decide on a Major?

The timeline for deciding on a major can fluctuate based on the individual and the educational institution. However, here are some general timelines:

High school students: As a high school junior, you may not need to have your major decided yet. Focus on discovering your interests and passions, enrolling in relevant courses, and contemplating your career aspirations. Many students alter their majors during their college years, so don't feel pressured to decide too soon.

College freshmen: By the conclusion of your freshman year, you should have a clearer idea of your preferred major. Use this time to enroll in introductory courses in various fields, engage in extracurricular activities, and seek advice from professors and advisors.

College sophomores and juniors: By your sophomore or junior year, you should have a definite idea of your major. This will enable you to concentrate on enrolling in required courses, pursuing internships, and preparing for your future career.

Keep in mind, it's crucial to remain open-minded and adaptable throughout the process. Your interests and goals may evolve over time, and that's perfectly fine. The most crucial aspect is to make a decision that aligns with your passions and career objectives.

Authoritative Reference Titles
CareerOneStop - Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, this website offers resources and tools for career exploration, including career assessments and information on various industries and occupations. It can assist you in identifying potential majors based on your interests and skills.

BigFuture by College Board - Provided by the College Board, BigFuture is a comprehensive college planning platform that includes resources for selecting a major, exploring careers, and understanding the college application process. It can be a valuable resource for high school students and their families.

NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers) - NACE is a professional association for career services and talent acquisition professionals. Their website offers resources and research on various topics related to career development, including major selection and job market trends. This can assist you in making informed decisions about your academic and career path.

GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
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Muruhanantham’s Answer

Discover what sparks your curiosity, for instance, you might be fascinated by computers, or perhaps maths is more your thing, and so forth.
Moreover, reflect on your past academic journey to identify your strengths. This self-awareness can aid you in choosing the right major.
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Reetika’s Answer

Identify the top five career paths that you feel are achievable, instead of focusing solely on one major stream. Spend some time exploring each path by watching 4-5 YouTube sessions related to each. As you watch, jot down your thoughts and feelings about each session, noting how well it aligns with your career aspirations. Once you've completed this process for all paths, review your notes. This reflection should guide you towards the right direction in your career journey. Remember, every step you take is a step closer to finding your true calling. Keep exploring, keep learning, and you'll find the path that resonates with you the most.
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Brittany’s Answer

The first year or two of college can be used to find out who you are what you are passionate about. Many of the classes in the first two years are general classes that can count towards most majors. During this time keep your mind open and pay attention to what lights you up! Over next few years try to get real life experience in the fields that spark your interests through internships and volunteering. Reach out to professionals in that industry on LinkedIn and request a short meeting to ask them questions about their career path. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself as you go through this process and know that you can change your major throughout your college career if you need to. Also know that many people work in jobs and industries that are not 100% aligned to their college major. Life is the greatest teacher, and you will find your way!
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Laquitta’s Answer

I was unsure for awhile. So pay attention to the classes AND electives you take. Whichever classes that come natural to you and you love it, consider that as a major. Then read this book for find out all the things you can do with that major: https://parachutebook.com/
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Aisha’s Answer

Unearth what truly ignites your interest. It could be anything from computers to mathematics, or anything else that piques your interest. Reflect on your past educational experiences to recognize your strong suits. This understanding of self can guide you in selecting the most suitable major.

Make a list of the top five careers that seem attainable to you, rather than focusing solely on one specific field and research each career, take notes.

Once you've done this for all the career paths, take some time to review your notes. This introspection should steer you in the right direction for your career journey. Always remember, every step you take brings you closer to discovering your true passion. Continue to explore and learn, and you'll find the path that truly resonates with you.
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