The first step to
choosing a major is figuring out what you’re genuinely passionate about. What subjects do you enjoy most? What topics could you talk about for hours?
Your interests are vital in narrowing down your options. Take a moment to reflect on what you like doing in your free time—whether it’s reading, problem-solving, or creating things. These personal interests often translate well into potential majors.
For example, if you’ve always been interested in how things work, a major like Engineering, Physics, or Environmental Science could be a good fit. If you enjoy writing or storytelling, you might be drawn to English, Journalism, or Communications.
How to Pick a College Major
Don’t just think about what you “should” study—focus on what excites you because that’s what will
keep you motivated throughout your college years.
Assess Your Strengths
Your strengths matter just as much as your interests. Are you good with numbers, creative projects, or working with people? Taking stock of your strengths will help you pick a major where you can excel.
If math or logic come naturally to you, consider majors like Computer Science, Economics, or Engineering. On the other hand, if you have a strong creative side, majoring in design, marketing, or the arts might be more your speed.
Think back to high school or
extracurricular activities — were you a natural at organizing events, solving math problems, or leading a team? These are clues that will help guide you. Understanding where your skills lie can help you pick a major that both challenges and plays to your strengths.
Explore Career Possibilities
While it's essential to choose something you're passionate about, you also want to consider your future job prospects. Some fields, like Business, Computer Science, and Healthcare, have clear career paths and strong job markets. Other fields, such as History, Philosophy, or the Arts,
may require additional schooling or a more flexible career approach.
It’s a good idea to research what kinds of jobs are available in the fields you’re considering. For example, suppose you’re looking into something like Psychology or Sociology. In that case, you may want to know what entry-level roles exist with just a bachelor’s degree and which ones may require further study (like a Master’s or PhD).
A
career in STEM fields like Medicine, Engineering, or Data Science, often leads to more defined roles in the job market. At the same time, humanities or social science degrees may offer more variety in job options. Still, they could require more adaptability in your career path.
You also want to consider earning potential. Some majors can open doors to
high-paying jobs right after graduation (think Engineering, Finance, or Computer Science), while others may require longer career paths or extra credentials to reach a similar income level. It’s essential to think about whether the lifestyle and potential earnings match what you envision for your future.
Take a Career Aptitude Test
If you’re still not sure what to pursue, a career aptitude test can offer some direction. These tests help match your personality and interests with potential fields of study.
Some schools provide these tests through their career centers, or you can find
online versions like those offered by CollegeBoard. These assessments won’t tell you exactly what to study, but they can highlight areas where you might thrive.
For instance, if you score high in problem-solving, an aptitude test might suggest majors in fields like Computer Science or Engineering. If you score high in interpersonal skills and creativity, you may get suggestions for Marketing, Psychology, or Education.
These tests can provide helpful guidance as you explore different majors but don’t rely on them alone — use them as a tool, not a decision-maker.
Talk to People in the Field
Sometimes, the best way to really understand a major is to talk to someone who’s already in that field. Whether it’s professors, professionals, or even fellow students, getting insights from those who have been through it can be invaluable. Ask them what they enjoy about their major, what challenges they face, and what career opportunities it has opened up for them.
You can
attend career fairs, informational interviews, or job shadowing events, to learn more about the day-to-day realities of specific fields. Many college campuses also offer mentorship programs where you can connect with alums who have experience in your areas of interest. These conversations can help you make a more informed decision about which major aligns with your goals.
Consider a Double Major or Minor
If you’re torn between two areas of interest, consider a double major or
picking up a minor. Many students combine majors to get the best of both worlds.
For example, if you’re interested in both Business and Computer Science, you could major in one and minor in the other. This can be especially helpful if you want to have a broader skill set and increase your employability after graduation.
While double majors can be time-consuming, they allow you to specialize in two different areas, which could open more job opportunities. Suppose you’re passionate about two subjects but don’t want the extra workload of a double major. In that case, a minor can be a great way to gain additional expertise in another area without the total commitment.
Stay Flexible
Your major doesn’t have to be set in stone. Many students
change their minds about their major once they’ve spent time in college. You may discover new interests or realize that your original choice doesn’t align with your goals.
It’s perfectly okay to switch tracks, and in fact, many students do. College is about exploration, and you don’t have to have everything figured out right away.
In fact, some students start in one area and end up pursuing a completely different field once they’ve taken more classes and gotten more experience. Keep an open mind and be willing to adjust as you learn more about yourself and the world around you.
You Can Choose a Major
Picking a major doesn’t have to be an overwhelming decision. By taking the time to
explore your interests, assess your strengths, research potential career paths, and talk to people in the field, you can make a more informed choice. And if you’re still unsure, career aptitude tests or double majors are great ways to explore different options.
Remember, your major is just the starting point. It’s okay if your path changes along the way. What’s most important is that you find a field that excites you and aligns with your future goals. College is about growth and exploration, and your major should be a reflection of your passions and your potential. Whatever you decide, trust that you’ll make the right choice for you.
