Helping Yourself to a 'Major' Decision
Making decisions can often times be stressful, especially when you are considering choosing your major. The best decisions are made when you have full information, you support your decision-making process and you use the resources on campus. Following is a list of "things to consider" while making your decision.
What Information Should You Gather?
"I have no idea what I want to major in..."
- Concentrate on understanding core and general graduation requirements.
- Enroll in coursework compatible with past success and interest, plus one or two introductory courses in unexplored areas.
"I like these (several) subject areas..."
- Concentrate on core that may be prerequisite for programs of interest.
- Determine skill areas and values common to areas of study (e.g. writing, data analysis, "people", etc.); choose compatible courses.
"I can't decide between Major A and Major B..."
- Carefully review the catalog requirements for interest areas.
- Choose requirements most compatible with the more structured program
How should you support yourself?
"I have no idea what I want to major in..."
- Remember that BSU graduation requirements support a period of exploration
- Trust your own informal self-assessment (thoughts/ feelings)
"I like these (several) subject areas..."
- Reinforce your already developed decision-making skills
- Talk with others about your interests - get feedback from those you trust
"I can't decide between Major A and Major B..."
- Consider declaring your major, knowing that later you can change your mind
- Review the information you have gathered; consider your "personal fit" with your chosen area
Where should you go for help?
"I have no idea what I want to major in..."
- Career Center (Discover)
- Student Activities (SU) - for information about clubs/organizations
- Talk to other students
"I like these (several) subject areas..."
- Academic Departments - for information about programs and careers
- Academic Departments - to find out about extra-curricular experiences that reinforce your interests
"I can't decide between Major A and Major B..."
- Academic Departments - for specific career information
- Career Center (job search and employment information)
- Academic Departments - to find out about extra-curricular experiences that that reinforce your decision
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