by Leigh Goessl

Created on: July 23, 2009   Last Updated: July 27, 2009

Selecting a major is one of the biggest decisions you'll have to make in your academic career. If you are like many new students, you probably feel a little overwhelmed by the different program curricula offered at different universities. There are a lot of different directions to take and the one you choose is likely going to guide your career, so you want to be sure you get it right.

Deciding on your major is not a decision which should be rushed or made in haste. Even though for months you've probably invested a lot of time exploring web sites, talking with counselors and hours studying catalogs as you prepare to enter college, you still may not be sure.

If this is the case, that's OK as time has not been wasted. Your efforts still can help shift you in a general direction to choose a major, even if you aren't ready to declare. As you peruse your opportunities, you want to be sure to choose the one that best matches your interests and skills. The tricky part is you also want one which will land you a job at the end of the journey.

Not knowing exactly what to choose is normal for first time college students. Additionally, you are probably wondering how to choose the right one and what the time frame is that you have to decide.

Here are a few tips and thought processes you can consider as you make this important decision:

*Self-Reflection

Take some to time reflect and try to determine what subject matter interests you. To start, try creating a list of your interests and then compare them to see if any degree programs closely match these interests. As you do this exercise, keep in mind the potential kinds of jobs the degree program will lead to.

Choosing a major you're interested in is important. This may not be the biggest money earner, but as long as your interest is paired with job availability and potential growth in the field, this is a good match. If you go for the degree programs with the intent of landing the big money someday, if the subject doesn't interest you, this is a fruitless endeavor.

Students who aim for the big bucks without enjoying what they are doing usually end up changing careers and this often entails going back to school. It's better to take time to reflect and really choose something which is appealing to you; you're better off in the long term.

*Job Forecasts

While interests are a really important facet as you explore majors, you'll also want to choose a major where there will be a job waiting for you at the end of your

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