First One to College

TIPS FOR CHOOSING A MAJOR

1. Do a Thorough Self-Assessment
What are your interests, skills and strengths?
What areas do you excel in academically?
What areas do you need to improve in?
What types of activities or projects bring you satisfaction?
What type of work environment are you most comfortable with?
Do you like working with others or do you prefer working independently?
Are you more comfortable supervising others or do you prefer to follow directions?
What types of situations do you find stressful?
Do you perform best under deadlines or do you prefer a less structured environment?
Are you a morning person or do you prefer working at night?

2. Look at What is Important to You
What are your values?
What kind of lifestyle do you hope to have?
What are your dreams for the future? Where do you see yourself in ten years, twenty years?
What are your top priorities: family, money, fame, stability, making a difference, travel. etc?
Do you have preferences on where you plan to live (specific states, regions, city, rural, suburban)?
Are you willing to earn a graduate or advanced degree?
What type of co-workers do you hope to have?
It is important to have variety in your work?
Is it important to have opportunities for career advancement?
How many hours a week are you comfortable working?
How do you define success?

3. Investigate Career Options
Research careers and job trends in the Career Center or on the internet. Look at:
    Job responsibilities and typical job settings
    Education and training requirements for specific jobs
    Skills necessary for the field
    Salary ranges
    Short term and long term job outlook
    Advancement opportunities
    Pros and cons of each job/field
    What you need to do in college to increase your job options at graduation
Talk to people actually working in the field
Talk to faculty and learn about degree requirements
Take elective courses to test out majors
Complete volunteer work in fields you may be interested in
Consider a major and minor or a double major
Get involved in clubs, organizations, sports, etc. to develop new skills and explore interests
Complete an internship in your junior year to gain experience and help you choose future options
Work closely with the Career Planning & Placement Office

4. Make an Informed Decision and Set Goals
Is this career field a good fit, if not, continue exploring options
Remember there is seldom one "right" job but lots of related options
Develop an action plan and set realistic goals