by Nicole Long

Created on: March 16, 2009

So, you've decided where you're going to college and for a while all seems well. You have probably been thinking about what major you will pursue. It's at this point where the road for some is easy and for others it takes many twists and turns. Some students know early on what their major will be. They grew up wanting to be a doctor, so assuming their intelligence affords them that chance, case closed. For many other students this is a very stressful and important decision. The decision you make about your major will affect many aspects of your life. This will shape your future.

The first thing to do is to remain calm and try to enjoy the process. Start by eliminating those majors that aren't a possibility or an interest. For example, if you don't understand nor ever will understand physics, you can probably rule that out as an option. Once you have done that, you will feel less overwhelmed. This should still leave a pretty good list of majors to choose from.

The next step is to choose up to five majors that you are really interested in. You may really love finance, economics, and accounting. You may also like photography and art history. If you can't choose between them try to choose a more general major at first. For instance, subjects like finance, economics, and accounting can all be found under a Business Degree with different focuses. If you start out taking general business classes you most likely have to take a mix of these majors anyway. After you are done with your freshman year it should be more clear what major suits you best.

Go with your gut. If you really love business, then go with it. If you really love art, then go that direction. The most important thing is to decide what you are good at and will excel at. Trust your instincts. You can certainly change majors, though this may add to the length of your education, at any time. Try to pay attention to the outlook for the profession you choose. This shouldn't be a major influence in your decision unless you have a certain kind of lifestyle in mind. Plenty of people make good money going to a job they hate. If you can do that then choose a major that has a historically high salary rate. I for one would rather by happy and get a lower salary, but won't judge those who wish to pursue the almighty dollar.

In the end know that you can always change your mind. This is about you and your future. Don't let family and friends sway your decision. If after narrowing down your choices and looking them over you still can't make a decision, then don't. Enter your freshman year undecided and take your basic classes while making a more informed decision. Talk to the academic counselors at your college. Go to faculty members within the majors you are deciding between and talk to them about concerns you have. With more time and a little less pressure the decision will seem clear to you.

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