How to Choose My Major?
Hi everyone! I’m currently facing some challenges in deciding on a major. I’m nearing the completion of my Associates in Arts degree (just a few elective credits to go), and as a senior graduating soon, I’m starting to feel anxious about my future.
I’ve been part of an early college program since my freshman year of high school, but despite my progress, I still don’t have a clear career path in mind. I have a passion for the arts, but my parents are not supportive of that direction. I also enjoy science, though I can’t stand chemistry, which rules that out. Civil engineering once piqued my interest, but my mom discouraged me, claiming it’s a “man’s world.”
Sadly, I’m finding it difficult to connect with most of the majors I’ve explored. I’ve tried various assessments suggesting careers but none of them resonate with me. Should I just accept a more practical career to avoid financial struggles, or is there a way to discover what truly fits my interests?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated! ♡
TL;DR: I’m having a tough time picking a major that resonates with me. Any tips on how to narrow it down?
It sounds like you’re in a pretty tough spot, and it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed when trying to choose a major, especially with so many pressures and expectations coming from different directions. Here are a few tips that might help you navigate this decision:
Explore Your Interests Further: You mentioned a love for the arts and science, so consider ways to combine those interests. Fields like architecture, design, or environmental science can have strong artistic components while still being practical and career-oriented.
Talk to Professionals: Reach out to people who work in fields you find intriguing, even if you haven’t considered them seriously yet. Informational interviews can give you insight into different careers and help narrow down what you might enjoy.
Take Introductory Courses: If possible, consider taking introductory courses in subjects that pique your interest, even if they aren’t traditionally seen as “safe” bets. This could include subjects in the arts, communication, or even non-chemistry-based sciences.
Consider Your Values: Think about what’s really important to you in a career. Is it creativity, stability, helping others, or working on challenging problems? Identifying your core values can often guide you to a major that aligns with them, rather than just what seems pragmatic right now.
Talk to a Career Counselor: Many colleges offer career counseling services that can help students explore their options more effectively. They might provide assessments or resources that resonate with you.
Volunteer or Intern: Gaining some practical experience through volunteering or internships can give you a clearer picture of what you do and don’t enjoy in a work setting, which might influence your choice of major.
Don’t Rush: Remember that it’s okay to take your time with this decision. Many students change their majors or take a few semesters to explore before committing to a specific career path.
Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends, mentors, or family members who understand your struggles. They can provide encouragement as you navigate this decision.
At the end of the day, it’s important to choose a path that feels right for you, even if it doesn’t conform to traditional expectations. There’s no single “right” major, and it’s perfectly okay to pursue what truly interests you! Good luck! ♡