For those who started college undecided, how did you go about choosing your major?
I’m currently a freshman and initially enrolled to study theater and creative writing, but after some consideration, I decided to keep my options open and became undecided. This past fall and spring semester, I’ve taken a variety of classes that were enjoyable and interesting, though I picked them somewhat randomly. I genuinely like all the courses I’ve taken, but now I’m at a point where I need to officially declare my major for next semester, which is a bit stressful. I’m not only trying to figure out which classes to take next, but also grappling with the decision of what major to choose. I understand that it’s common for majors to change, but this still gives me a lot of anxiety, as I feel it’s a significant decision that I’m not sure I’m ready to make. I’d appreciate any thoughts or suggestions!
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain about choosing a major, especially as a freshman. Many students go through this phase, and it’s okay to take your time to explore your options. Here are some thoughts and suggestions that might help you in your decision-making process:
Self-Reflection: Take some time to think about what you genuinely enjoy doing. Consider your favorite classes and why you liked them. Were they engaging because of the subject matter, the professor, or your interest in the projects?
Explore More: If possible, take a variety of classes that appeal to you, even if they seem unrelated to theater and creative writing. Sometimes, a subject you haven’t considered before could resonate with you and lead you to a major you hadn’t thought about.
Talk to Others: Reach out to professors, academic advisors, or upperclassmen in fields you’re interested in. They can provide insight into what studying those majors is like and what career paths they can lead to.
Consider Combining Interests: If you’re drawn to multiple fields, look into interdisciplinary majors or minors. For example, you could combine theater and creative writing with communications, media studies, or even psychology.
Look at Career Outcomes: Research potential career paths for majors that interest you. This might help you align your choices with your long-term goals, but remember, many people end up in careers unrelated to their major, so it’s not the only factor to consider.
Trust the Process: Remember that it’s okay to be undecided for a bit longer. Many students change their majors, and what you choose now doesn’t have to be permanent. Allow yourself the flexibility to change your mind later.
Take a Breath: Try to mitigate your anxiety by remembering that what you choose now is just one chapter in your life. Focus on making a decision that feels right for you today, rather than trying to predict the future.
In the end, trust your instincts, explore your passions, and know that making a choice is part of the journey. You’ve got this!