5 answers
Christian
Student
Manvel, Texas
2
Questions
Asked
899 views
How to manage a double major, specifically in ecology and neurobiology?
As a senior high school student, I have two years of experience in ecology research. Having applied to 15 universities, I have targeted schools with cutting-edge research in ecology and neurobiology and flexible degree plans. I would like a personal perspective on co-managing two majors.
#ecology #neurobiology #neuroscience #medicine #neurology #neurosurgery
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5 answers
Angelique Kimble
Academic advisor/Adjunct faculty
2
Answers
Davenport, Iowa
Updated
Angelique’s Answer
There will be some common degree requirements for the two majors early on (gen eds). You may also want to determine how the two majors compliment each other so you can choose electives that co-mingle topics. Finding these common grounds will keep you from spending too much time going in different directions. I also encourage job shadowing in both areas early on to ensure a double major for both is beneficial.
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I would add to also complete the ONet interests inventory to affirm two things: that these careers align with your interests and the jobs offered with those degrees. It is terrible when folks graduate and don’t gain employment in the field they graduated in.
Michelle Williams, M.Ed.
Mona Gaballa
1
Answer
New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Mona’s Answer
Hello Christian, excellent question. While I was an undergraduate student I acquired three major concentrations which was difficult to manage. The biggest skill you need to have to achieve a harder work load is time management. Every decision you make regarding your time and how you spend it can equally empower you or disempower you. Make sure that you select classes that interest you (outside of required/specified courses) and check to see if any of the course you need for both majors overlap. Remember you can always change your majors and minors so also consider beginning with one major and one minor and advancing to two majors if your schedule and workload allow it.
Dr. LaToya Gathers
Instructor
3
Answers
Greensboro, North Carolina
Updated
Dr. LaToya’s Answer
Since the second major is also in the College of Arts and Sciences(CAS), it is relatively simple to double major because the CAS requirements apply to both majors. However, some majors require many credits so you'll need to plan early.
Ceasar Castro
Academic Adviser
3
Answers
Fair Lawn, New Jersey
Updated
Ceasar’s Answer
First, I would like to congratulate you for looking into these two very promising concentrations. Let me begin my advice by first emphasizing the importance of time management. At the collegiate level, there's a great deal for self discipline & goal orientation to keep you focus. This includes specific hours & days during the week where you will only dedicate time to get your work done. Secondly, developing a relationship & partnership with your Biology department & key personnel like your instructors & academic adviser. They are incredible resources to acquire information & knowledge on the subject to help you navigate the courses accordingly. Since both are different subjects but housed under Biology, I suspect an approach to recommendations will be taken to meet the requirements of both subjects. Third, if you find yourself needing academic assistance i.e. tutoring, those are resources you can always count on if you meet an obstacle along the way. Finally, patience is important in maintaining a realistic & manageable outlook on the subjects that need more time adjusting & spending a great deal of assistance.
Shania Draggin
Student Assistant
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Shania’s Answer
I don’t know much about those two majors but I do know they are both time consuming. If you choose to double major in both of them at the same time just know that it will take a lot of hard work and sacrifice. You want to make sure that your time management is great especially with the work load your receiving from both. Since your double majoring there are going to be specific required courses you will have to take for each, all I can say is focus on your major required courses and try your hardest to knock those required courses out before your electives. At least then you should know what your struggling with and what you enjoy and it’ll give you some insight if you really want to continue this major or even reconsider In making one a minor instead. For extra help definitely ask your professors questions, go to their office hours it will become very useful and if not your college should have a tutoring service on site for extra help. But making sure you find a great balance in working on assignments on both these majors that is the key. No procrastinating!Hope this helps!