How do you know if your major is right for you?

Hi So!

It's a difficult prospect to choose what major you want to pursue when initially applying for college. The biggest thing I would suggest is that you have flexibility. What you decided to pursue at 18 might change incredibly in a year when you have had the opportunity to try that field. This is not a bad thing at all, but instead a healthy learning experience and one that you can take a lot out of.

I initially went into school as a Aeronautical Engineer minoring in Business. I realized that while I was ok in my engineering classes, I had a huge passion for my business course work. I was more engaged and driven in that space and performed at a higher level. It was difficult for me to tell my family I wanted to change majors but they were incredibly supportive. They saw this was were my true passions lie and encouraged me to pivot.

My advice is to charge towards whatever you find exciting and can provide a comfortable lifestyle for you after graduation, however you define that. Finding something you enjoy and not have to bash you head against every day is a huge step in the right direction towards a fulfilling life.

So,

You are at the point where many of us panic - the thought of having to actually go out into the world and start working on our careers! The feeling is normal. I do not know what field you are majoring in. It may not be the "major" that you did not enjoy. Perhaps you expected more? Perhaps the professors did not live up to your expectations? Are you concerned because there is still so much you do not know, you don't feel competent to go out and start working? All of these feelings are normal too! Embarking on a career is scary. This is where you simply have to jump in the deep end and come up swimming. You will do just fine!

Now, if you really feel this field is not for you, you can look at changing majors, or getting a minor. The extra hours will of course cost more, but may be necessary, depending on what you are changing to, and what you are changing from. For example, going from biology to microbiology is not as big of a jump as is going from biology to American history. Again, depending on the field, sometimes it really does not matter what you majored in, the employers simply require that you have a degree - any degree!

People change jobs a lot more often than they used to. Once you have been in your first job for two years, start looking at how you can best advance your career. You will have developed "transferable skills" that can be used in other careers. For many occupations, staying with one employer( even if you change positions) for more than five years is now considered a sign of stagnation - it is interpreted as meaning you are afraid of change, are "playing it safe," etc. Always keep your eyes and ears open for opportunity, and never say no to anyone who expresses an interest in you working for them - always say how you appreciate their thinking of you, and you will think about it and get back to them the following day!

I hope this has been helpful - I'm interested in knowing more about your situation! Please follow up if I can be of further assistance! Kim