Ask yourself those questions before deciding your major:
Q1: Am I only choosing this because someone else wants me to?Why do you want to pursue this major? Be honest with yourself! Make sure that you don’t feel pressured by peers, family, professors, or even yourself to choose a major. |
Q2: Am I only choosing this because I don’t know what I want to do?If you are unsure of what studies you’d like to pursue, gain further information about the subject. A few good ways to do this are to explore the subject by taking electives, do research, talk with a professional in the field or intern in your desired field. This way, you will gain first-hand knowledge of the industry. |
Q3. Do I realistically understand what it takes to do this?Thoroughly look at all of the requirements and pre-requisite requirements for the majors you are considering. Then reflect back on your high school experience, even your college experience so far…do you struggle in one area? Do you shine in another? This has nothing to do with your intelligence, it has to do with how intelligence displays itself. Figure out your strengths and weaknesses and move forward from there. |
Q4. What kinds of jobs can I get in this field?You shouldn’t avoid a specific field of study just because it has fewer employment opportunities; you just need to understand that it is going to be a little harder and that you will need to do more work to be successful in that field. It’s about figuring out if you are willing and able to put the extra work in. How much does this field really mean to you? |
Q5. Am I willing to pursue graduate studies in this field?Some majors will require you to pursue further studies in a specific area of the field or to obtain a more specific skill set—these majors will require graduate work. Do your research about jobs and what requirements they have. Be honest with yourself about whether you are willing to put in the extra time and work or not. |
Q6. Are there jobs that work with the kind of lifestyle I want?Will you need flexible hours? Do you want a typical 9am-5pm day? Figure out what kind of lifestyle you are interested in so that you can understand if that works with your chosen major. |
Q7. Is this the right– and only– major for my career path?The path from your major to your career is non-linear! This means that there are many different career options for all majors. It is all about the skills and experience you obtain while in college that will help guide you to your career of choice. Don’t box yourself into a major you don’t like or struggle in thinking it is the only path to the career you want. Speak with a career counselor for more guidance. |
Q8. Does this topic bring me joy?You should study something that you truly enjoy. Look at what you really like discussing, what catches your eye? Find something that fits who you are and what you love to do. College is an amazing experience; let it be one that gives you a sense of fulfillment as well! |
Q9. Do I want a traditional major at all?If none of the traditional major options seem to be the right fit, maybe you should consider creating your own major. Old Westbury offers the option of an interdisciplinary or Ad-Hoc major. You should also consider adding a minor which can help diversify your degree while allowing you to pursue a topic of interest. Speak with an academic advisor for more information. (Psst...you also don’t have to choose just one! Maybe a double major is what you're looking for.) |