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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This web page was last updated May 2005