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What do I do if I dont know what to major in, in the future?
What might be things I can consider/do to help me decide?
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14 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
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Paul’s Answer
Some colleges have a major in General Studies, where the courses include a variety of subjects from the humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, electives, and other areas within the general education curriculum. This might be something to consider.
It basically is an education program for people who are considered to be "Generalists" in their endeavors. And as Sports Illustrated writer, David Epstein stated, the "Generalists are the ones who will dominate the world."
It basically is an education program for people who are considered to be "Generalists" in their endeavors. And as Sports Illustrated writer, David Epstein stated, the "Generalists are the ones who will dominate the world."
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Shiya’s Answer
Hello Juan!
I encourage you to step into your academic journey with an open mind, without settling on a major right away. You have approximately two years to explore and make that crucial decision. Use this time to attend a diverse range of classes that pique your curiosity or align with your interests. This strategy will broaden your horizons, enabling you to discover subjects that ignite your passion and captivate your interest.
Here's wishing you all the best on this exciting educational adventure!
I encourage you to step into your academic journey with an open mind, without settling on a major right away. You have approximately two years to explore and make that crucial decision. Use this time to attend a diverse range of classes that pique your curiosity or align with your interests. This strategy will broaden your horizons, enabling you to discover subjects that ignite your passion and captivate your interest.
Here's wishing you all the best on this exciting educational adventure!
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Yumi’s Answer
There's no rush to settle on a major right away. Begin by exploring general education courses and delve into subjects that spark your curiosity. As you discover your passions, you can then make a more informed decision about your major.
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Deborah’s Answer
If you're unsure about what to major in, consider exploring various subjects, internships, and talking to professionals in different fields to gain insight and clarity.
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Lyndsey’s Answer
Hi Juan!
I am not sure where you are in your college journey, but you don't have to declare a major until well into your college career, so if you are not yet in college, I would not worry too much. If you are already in college, I would think about what you enjoy and what you are good at as well as what career options exist in that area.
I think many college students go in thinking one thing and come out of college with a different degree and for many careers your field of study is not a huge deal. I know a lot of people (myself included) that are in career fields that are way outside their college major. While it is a significant decision, you have time to decide and it will not be the end all be all if you choose a major and decide to pursue a different career path. Hope this helps!
I am not sure where you are in your college journey, but you don't have to declare a major until well into your college career, so if you are not yet in college, I would not worry too much. If you are already in college, I would think about what you enjoy and what you are good at as well as what career options exist in that area.
I think many college students go in thinking one thing and come out of college with a different degree and for many careers your field of study is not a huge deal. I know a lot of people (myself included) that are in career fields that are way outside their college major. While it is a significant decision, you have time to decide and it will not be the end all be all if you choose a major and decide to pursue a different career path. Hope this helps!
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akshika’s Answer
Hi Juan,
Try everything that might interest you in college that includes the courses you might have to take or not. Starting at a undecided major or general studies is totally fine when pursuing one's degree. Deciding on a major can be a significant decision, and it's common to feel uncertain about it.
Think about what your interests, hobbies, and passions are. What subjects do you enjoy learning about in your free time/in school? How do you want your life to look like in 5 years from now? Networking is also a big thing. If you have social media or if you search up people that you can email, i feel like asking someone from the same interest or fields you want to shadow is a great way to build up on knowing what to do or asking how one's day to day is like to someone in that specific job? Connecting with professionals, alumni, and peers can open up new perspectives and opportunities. Another resource is taking and using the O*net assessment online which is a tool for career exploration and job analysis. It's okay not to have all the answers immediately. Deciding on a major is a process that can take time, and it's normal to explore different options before settling on a choice.
Try everything that might interest you in college that includes the courses you might have to take or not. Starting at a undecided major or general studies is totally fine when pursuing one's degree. Deciding on a major can be a significant decision, and it's common to feel uncertain about it.
Think about what your interests, hobbies, and passions are. What subjects do you enjoy learning about in your free time/in school? How do you want your life to look like in 5 years from now? Networking is also a big thing. If you have social media or if you search up people that you can email, i feel like asking someone from the same interest or fields you want to shadow is a great way to build up on knowing what to do or asking how one's day to day is like to someone in that specific job? Connecting with professionals, alumni, and peers can open up new perspectives and opportunities. Another resource is taking and using the O*net assessment online which is a tool for career exploration and job analysis. It's okay not to have all the answers immediately. Deciding on a major is a process that can take time, and it's normal to explore different options before settling on a choice.
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Song’s Answer
Don't worry if you're unsure about what you want to do yet. It's perfectly alright! Use this time to delve into your hobbies and consider what you excel in. Sometimes, it's hard to choose a path when you're good at many things. Starting your college journey with general courses is a great idea. This way, you'll likely stumble upon something that sparks your interest. Remember, continuous learning is key. So, try to avoid taking a gap year right after high school. Keep learning, keep growing, and you'll find your way!
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Andrew’s Answer
Hello Juan,
I would highly advise you to explore a diverse range of courses during the initial stages of your college journey. Don't hesitate to enroll in classes that may seem out of your comfort zone. This strategy could potentially lead you to discover a major that truly ignites your passion.
Additionally, when it comes to choosing a major, it's crucial to conduct thorough research about potential careers related to that field. This will provide you with a clear picture of what your future might look like after graduation, including your career trajectory, potential earnings, and the balance between work and personal life.
I would highly advise you to explore a diverse range of courses during the initial stages of your college journey. Don't hesitate to enroll in classes that may seem out of your comfort zone. This strategy could potentially lead you to discover a major that truly ignites your passion.
Additionally, when it comes to choosing a major, it's crucial to conduct thorough research about potential careers related to that field. This will provide you with a clear picture of what your future might look like after graduation, including your career trajectory, potential earnings, and the balance between work and personal life.
Updated
Audriene’s Answer
Hi Juan, this is a terrific question. Many students struggle with picking a major. I would suggest starting with foundational courses, or those that all/most majors would need to graduate. Thinking about your passions and what truly drives you can provide valuable insights into potential majors. If you cannot yet identify any passions, consider your strengths, skills, and experiences outside of academics. What activities do you enjoy outside of school? What subjects come naturally to you? I'm sure you will find a fit that is right for you!
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Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Firstly you have to find out what careers you have interest. The relevant subjects are the major and minor you can focus.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you like maths, would you you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker , financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects will be the major and you can explore.
5. Explore the college review in these subjects and find the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you like maths, would you you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker , financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects will be the major and you can explore.
5. Explore the college review in these subjects and find the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Updated
Tara’s Answer
Hi Juan!
Great question! I second Paul's answer about possibly becoming a "Generalist." I got a liberal arts degree and majored in theater, but all of those general education courses helped me so much when I was looking for a job. People like the fact that I'm a "jack-of-all-trades." Of course, if you're in school and find your passion about halfway through, you can always change your major and focus on that. It is harder to switch from trying to be a doctor to trying to be a lawyer so I would be wary of committing to either of those paths unless you were really serious about it.
Anyway, there's nothing wrong with having a general base of knowledge and pursuing a career in the Humanities. A liberal arts degree gives you the tools that you need to deal with people and navigate life. In corporate speak: soft skills.
Best of luck to you!
Great question! I second Paul's answer about possibly becoming a "Generalist." I got a liberal arts degree and majored in theater, but all of those general education courses helped me so much when I was looking for a job. People like the fact that I'm a "jack-of-all-trades." Of course, if you're in school and find your passion about halfway through, you can always change your major and focus on that. It is harder to switch from trying to be a doctor to trying to be a lawyer so I would be wary of committing to either of those paths unless you were really serious about it.
Anyway, there's nothing wrong with having a general base of knowledge and pursuing a career in the Humanities. A liberal arts degree gives you the tools that you need to deal with people and navigate life. In corporate speak: soft skills.
Best of luck to you!
Updated
Manny’s Answer
Delving into various hobbies or fields of interest is crucial because it helps you pinpoint what you enjoy and what you don't. I suggest embracing your educational journey with a receptive mindset. Engage with individuals from diverse disciplines to gain insights into their viewpoints and the motivations behind their choice of majors.
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Benjamin’s Answer
There's a whole world of exciting majors to explore in college, each one opening the door to a variety of potential careers. A great starting point could be having a friendly chat with people who are a bit older and wiser, asking them about their jobs. This could help you pinpoint a major that might lead you to a career you'd find truly fascinating. These folks will have the inside scoop on the future trends of their industries and can guide you towards the majors that could open up the most captivating career paths down the line. Don't forget to make good use of online resources too! Checking out testimonials from people in the fields you're considering can give you a real sense of whether their career could be your cup of tea. And finally, don't be shy about getting some hands-on experience in areas that pique your interest based on your research!
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JOANNA’s Answer
Hey Juan,
Joanna here. I hope you are doing well. I understand that it can sometimes be overwhelming and confusing to not know what to do about your future or when you hear your peers express their opinion about their future goals. I've been there before but it is actually a great place to be in as you are mentally open to a lot of option. I would suggest that you spend sometime with yourself and ask yourself where your interest lies and what would you like to become. You will eventually find the answer with time. It is completely okay to not have all the answers now but eventually you will. Hope this helps.
Joanna here. I hope you are doing well. I understand that it can sometimes be overwhelming and confusing to not know what to do about your future or when you hear your peers express their opinion about their future goals. I've been there before but it is actually a great place to be in as you are mentally open to a lot of option. I would suggest that you spend sometime with yourself and ask yourself where your interest lies and what would you like to become. You will eventually find the answer with time. It is completely okay to not have all the answers now but eventually you will. Hope this helps.