Factors To Consider When Choosing A Major

By Jocelyn Davidson


It is a great achievement to pass and get admitted in a college. Regardless, it also presents challenges for most students since this is the period of choosing a major. The importance of majors lies in the determination of the career to take. They also guide one in choosing what to further their knowledge in.

For instance, students specializing in history are more interested in the subject not the career. They will acquire skills and can work in other careers that are not being an historian. Majors which are focused on specific careers include business, education, medicine and engineering. These prepare the student for that specific career. There are several factors to consider when picking an area of specialization.

Several things have to be considered in order to pick the right area to specialize in. The interest of the student is the first factor. The student needs to be passionate about what they want to specialize in. Sometimes, this is identified by people around them. For example, a student who loves to help others with class work may opt to specialize in education.

Another way to determine what to specialize is through talks with seniors, friends and career masters. Friends matter because they are aware of things about you which you may not necessarily know. They may not be straight forward in giving you options but general pointers will be given. Career masters and guides have information regarding the type of careers available and they are able to match them with your strengths or weaknesses.

Seniors who have already declared their majors are also important channels for counsel. Having passed this stage, they are more knowledgeable than anyone else about how to choose an area of specialization. Professionals in the subject of interest are already practicing and therefore would be able to provide great insight of what to expect after college.

Check the syllabus of the subject you think would interest you. Look at assignments, books and course content. If the material is compelling enough it is natural to want to know more about that particular academic discipline. If you find it difficult or boring it may not be the best for you. The location of the college where it is offered is also important.

Many students trivialize the matters of job and salary expectations when it comes to choosing a particular major. However, these are important aspects that need to be considered. On the other hand, one should not sacrifice their passion for the money. The best option is where interest meets good working opportunity, just a little bit of both really. How to finance the subject of specialization and its affordability are other factors that students need to consider.

In conclusion, selecting a major should not be a matter of life and death. Just choose a discipline you are interested in and which has some resemblance to what you would like to do after college. Consider skills, passion and ability. If it does not work, you can always change the career or get back to school.




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