College students struggle with choosing a major for many reasons. For some, it is a matter of "so many subjects, so little time." Everything is exciting and interesting, and narrowing things down to one major feels a bit like choosing just one ice cream flavor on a hot summer day. Others struggle to understand their own strengths and career goals, which makes choosing a major difficult.

The following are tips and pointers often shared by college and university professionals when helping students choose a major.

1. Use your university's general requirements to your advantage.
Many colleges have a set of course requirements that all students must take, regardless of their chosen major. These requirements are in place to help make sure that students leave the university with a broad knowledge base, and often include courses in areas such as the humanities, math, science, writing, social sciences and technology.

Many new college students feel they have to choose a major right away or risk wasting precious time and tuition money. But if carefully planned, the first few semesters can be an opportunity to test the waters in many areas while still progressing towards your degree. Read your college's catalog and work with an advisor to understand your school's general program. As you narrow down your major options, work towards completing this general program by selecting courses that interest you and meet the school's requirements.

2. Use the resources available to you.
Most colleges and universities have advising, counseling and career centers available. Visit these centers and browse through their online and printed resources. Talk with advisors and career counselors. Most centers will offer assessment tests to help students indentify their interests and strengths. Spend some time taking these assessments and talking with a counselor or advisor about your results.

3. Daydream about what you want to be when you grow up.
Whether you're fifteen or fifty, it is never to late to dream. So, you wanted to be a writer? Sure, the reality is that not all of us who are lined up for the title will get to be the next Hemingway. But paying attention to your dreams can help you narrow down your choices. If your dream is to be a novelist, chances are that even if you don't get there a career involving writing as part of your job duties will make you happier than crunching numbers all day. Choose your major accordingly.

4. Know your strengths and your passions.

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