What is your priority? Do you have a passion you want to pursue? Some students prefer majors based on benefits potentials and financial earnings, while other pursue majors that focus on fewer salaries but offer meaning and fun future career.
Many would agree that besides choosing a college or university, choosing a major is a stressful yet exciting journey for many students. A college major opens opportunities. It also paves the way to a fulfilling career and high-paying job.
I consider choosing a major as one of the major life decisions I have ever made. I did not take the selection process lightly. My major helped me position myself for my desired industry.
I understand how difficult the selection process can be if you have no idea when or how to start. So, I give you the factors to consider when choosing a major below:
Passion
The major I picked greatly influenced my entire college life. I observed that most students join clubs in relation to their majors. You have to realize that your college major can potentially impact your postgraduate life as you enter the workforce. You should pick a major that will enable you to build the skills you want and where you can pour your passion.
Future Employability
You have to consider the kind of job you will have after you had the degree during the selection process. You have to determine whether you will find a job or not, how hard the major will be, or whether the jobs are everywhere or you need to move to find a job.
When it comes to future employability, the job title is not only the focus. You also need to think about the skills you will acquire and whether these skills are in demand or not. For instance, data and data analysis-related skills become super-valuable since data became a highly critical part of the economy. Therefore, you may want to think about doing things like advanced excel training to set you apart from other candidates who are applying for the same job.
Career Interests
Do you have a specific goal like becoming a lawyer, doctor, or chemist? Some particular career goals require specific courses, activities, or majors. For instance, if your goal is to become a doctor, you may have to give tests like the UCAT Situational Judgement test and also complete the medical school prerequisites.
Having a very particular career goal will help you choose a major a lot easier. Plus, it gives you some valuable ideas about your academic path. You can then see how to craft your resume when you apply for these positions so you stand out to employers. If you need help with setting it out and planning, there are websites like https://www.arcresumes.com/ that can be a great support in putting this all together ready to be sent off.
Future Income Potential
When picking a major, you can also think of the future income potential. If your goal is to have a high salary in the future, you have to be realistic. For instance, professions like social work and teaching might pay very poorly. On the other hand, if you pick majors like engineering and computer science, you have a better chance of achieving your desired salary. Later, to increase your chances of getting a job, you can also look for professional courses (through a training company similar to hansen beck) that can assist in grabbing better career opportunities.
Colleges
If you already have ideas about what major you will choose, consider the college where the subject is taught. For instance, you need to figure out if a specific college can mint graduates to succeed in their chosen field. Of course, you have to ensure that the school you picked offers the major you have on your mind.
School’s Process
It is also critical to know about the school’s timeline and process when selecting a major. You have to know how much time is needed to make your final decision. You also need to consider how you will make it happen after the decision.
At some schools, there are different deadlines for different majors. So, ensure that you are aware of these deadlines.
Abilities
It is never a good idea to choose a major in something you are aware you are not good at. This means it is ideal to choose a major that will enable you to nourish your current skills, abilities, and knowledge. Your major should also give you the opportunity to learn new talents that can help boost your future career.
Yes, you should not take the selection process of your major lightly but do not pressure yourself too much. Ensure that you have enough time to think about it. It is also an excellent idea to ask for guidance from your parents and anyone familiar with different majors. Then, do not forget to enjoy the entire process.
