Imagine this: You've started your senior year of high school and still don't know what you want to do when you grow up. You know where you want to go to college but are unsure what to major in. You must be wondering, What major should I choose? Well, you’re not alone! Choosing the right major might seem like a huge decision, but it’s also a journey of self-discovery. Some opt for college major quizzes, while others follow their guidance counselors' advice. There’s no single right answer—what matters most is finding a balance between your interests, your passion, your skills, future job opportunities, and the lifestyle you envision for yourself. So, let’s get right into it.
Why Choosing the Right Major Matters
Choosing the right major can shape your future job opportunities, earning potential, and overall job satisfaction. While some careers require specific degrees, other fields offer flexibility. Understanding why this decision matters can help you make a choice that supports your personal and professional preferences.
What Major Should I Choose? How to Pick a Major in 8 Steps
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing a college major. However, following a structured approach can make the decision easier. Here are 8 steps to think about:
1. Identify Your Interests and Strengths
What subjects and activities excite you? Whether it’s solving math problems, writing, or understanding human behavior, these interests can guide what major you choose.
Identifying your strengths and weaknesses can help you pick a major that suits you. This can help you avoid majors that might not be your thing, which could lead to dissatisfaction, loss of purpose, career shifts, or even additional years of study.
- If you’re excelling in AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Statistics, you might consider a major in healthcare or clinical science.
- If you’re enjoying your AP Calculus AB class and your SAT score is above 1074, your dream major could be business, management, or marketing.
- If you love the English language and are acing AP English Literature and AP U.S. History, you might consider a major in the humanities.
2. Aligning Career and Lifestyle Goals
If you have a few majors in mind, research how they align with your lifestyle and financial goals. Consider the kind of life you want—are you comfortable with long hours, or is work-life balance a priority? Where do you see yourself living? A condo in a bustling city, a suburban home, or a rural retreat? Explore the cost of that lifestyle and the job market in those areas.
For example, a pre-med or biology degree is ideal for aspiring doctors, while finance or marketing suits those pursuing a business career. Both offer flexibility in location, but salaries vary widely depending on where you live and work. Research industry salaries to see how they align with your goals, and discuss your findings with a counselor to make an informed decision.
3. Be an Explorer
It’s absolutely normal to feel overwhelmed by the number of majors out there. Very few people have their path completely figured out in high school—and that’s okay! Consider taking introductory courses in different subjects to see what resonates with you. Attend career fairs, talk to your guidance counselor, and contact professionals in your fields of interest. You might just stumble upon something extraordinary that ignites the spark.
4. Use Online Tools and Assessments
Taking career aptitude tests and personality assessments can provide valuable insights when choosing a major. A career quiz can match your skills and interests with a potential career path. Additionally, the College Board®’s BigFuture platform offers resources to explore different majors, understand job prospects, and advise on the next steps.
5. Seek Guidance from Advisors and Mentors
Turn to a favorite teacher, academic advisor, mentor, and career counselor for advice. They can map out a realistic career path and offer valuable advice through real-world insights and experiences to guide your decision-making. They can also help you understand different majors' coursework, career paths, and potential challenges. The key is to be open to sharing your vulnerabilities and queries that you’ve had before you put the hammer down on a major.
6. Assess the Job Market
While passion is important, it’s also wise to research job prospects. In a world shaped by AI, some industries have higher demand and growth potential than others. Look into job placement rates, average salaries, and long-term career stability in your areas of interest. You can refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics or LinkedIn’s job trends for insights and narrow down your major choices accordingly. But remember—the career you’ll thrive in might not even exist yet! Staying adaptable, becoming a self-driven learner, and building transferable skills will prepare you for the evolving job market.
7. Research College Websites
Choosing a major means finding a college or university that offers top-notch credentials that will earn you the recognition you deserve after graduating. Learn their course structures, specializations, and available career services. Review the curriculum to give you a clear picture of what you’ll be taking and the skills you’ll develop. Check the prerequisites to ensure that you meet all qualifications. Many colleges provide career support to help you plan for life after graduation.
8. Be Open to Change
Many students don’t have backup options. This can mean spending more time and money in school. It’s OK if you discover that your initial major isn’t the best fit for you. 30% of undergraduates in associate and bachelor’s degrees switch majors during college. Your journey is about growth and exploration, so be open to adjusting your path as you gain new experiences.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Choosing Your College Major
From rushing into a choice to overlooking key factors, many students face challenges later in after choosing the wrong college major. Here are a few mistakes you can avoid:
- Choosing a major based on parental or peer pressure
- Basing your career path on salary alone
- Picking a major just because it's popular
- Ignoring long-term career prospects and opting for low-demand careers
Choosing a college major is a significant step, but it’s not a life sentence. Your major is just a part of your educational journey. When thinking about how to choose a major, focus on learning, gaining skills, and staying curious; the rest will follow.
References
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.). Occupational outlook handbook. U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
College Board. (n.d.). Explore careers and majors. BigFuture. Retrieved from https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/explore-careers
O*NET Online. (n.d.). Career exploration tools. U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved from https://www.onetonline.org/
U.S. News & World Report. (2024). Best colleges rankings and reviews. Retrieved from https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges
LinkedIn. (n.d.). LinkedIn economic graph: Job trends. Retrieved from https://economicgraph.linkedin.com/resources/job-trends
