The MAJOR Question: How to Choose Krystal Stanley, M.Ed. Counseling Graduate Assistant Career Services

Today’s Topics Selecting a Major Assessing Career Interests Connecting the Two Career Services Resources Academic College Resources

POP QUIZ! (True or False?) Most students declare a major in their first year. Once a major is declared it is unwise to change it. If a student’s career goals are unsure then a major cannot be selected. Each major dictates certain career choices. Family and friends know which major is the best for a student. The choice of a major should be put off as long as possible to avoid a narrow education.

First things first… What makes a “bad” major?? When students don’t like the coursework When students can’t do the coursework What makes a “good” major?? The course work suits you You meet like-minded people You gain competence in a certain field of thought

Therefore… Selecting a major begins with SELF KNOWLEDGE Consider: What you like and dislike Your strengths and weaknesses Your skills and abilities Your values

Assessing Interests HOW do you like to work with …? WHAT TYPE of … do you like to work with? WHERE do you like to work with …?

May I see the menu, please? What majors are offered by which colleges? What about minors -- how do they figure into the picture? Are concentrations in certain areas possible? Is a certificate necessary? Can an individualized program be designed?

Career Services Resources Drop-In Counseling Individual Career Counseling Career Library Interest Assessments Personality Assessments Lion Link Workshops/ Panel discussions

Academic College Resources Advising centers Introductory courses Special events

Other ways to learn about majors… Join a club Work for a professor in the major Internships

Questions?? Career Services Center 10 Perkins Student Center 610-396-6019