Exploring Majors and Careers

• Self Assessment. Spend time assessing your interests, values, strengths, dislikes, abilities, personal qualities, talents, experiences and skills.
• Explore. Visit the career center, go to the library, and use the Internet to explore majors and careers.
• Experience General Education. Take introductory or general education classes to meet college requirements and to explore your interests and aptitude in various areas.
• Talk with Instructors and Department Chairs. Find out which classes relate to certain majors and careers.
• Gain Work Experience. Working at a variety of jobs will help you decide the job conditions that best fit your needs and personality. Also work experience is very important for getting a job. Explore internships and volunteer opportunities.
• Talk with Professionals. Obtain a realistic view of certain jobs and occupations. Ask professionals in certain fields for pros and cons about their jobs and what classes they would suggest you take.
• Join Clubs and Activities. Gain leadership qualities and learn about different majors and careers.
• Network. It is never too soon to start building a network system. Build relationships with instructors, advisors, staff, and other students.
• Explore Creative Options. Some colleges have Interdisciplinary Majors or Liberal Studies Majors. Some programs have a variety of options that students can choose.
• Set Goals and Deadlines. At one point, you need to make a decision and work to make it successful. Choose a major that best fits your needs at this time and realize that you can change your mind later. Some students earn a certificate from a career school and then put themselves through college with their skills. Don't drop out of college because you're indecisive. Complete a general degree and then gain job experience.