by Cicely Richard

Created on: August 04, 2009   Last Updated: August 08, 2009

A momentous decision every college student makes is choosing a college major. Many college students know exactly what they want to do once they complete college and have their major chosen before the first day of class. Other students struggle with finding a college major and constantly change their major, often delaying their graduation or not graduating at all. Even nontraditional students, who are supposed to be mature, have a hard time picking their college degrees. There are numerous strategies used to choose a college degree.

Many college students choose a college major based on their interests and subjects they excel in. for example, many people student major in English or science-related subjects because those are the classes they've done well in during their primary and secondary education classes. They want to learn more about these subjects and find careers based on these interests.

Some students decide what to major on by shadowing someone in that field or doing internships. After they see the day to day life of a person in that field, they decide whether or not to major in that field. Almost any major can use this approach to finding a major, but students who want to be doctors, lawyers, journalists, or teachers often shadow or do internships to see if they can deal with the challenges associated with these careers.

Freshmen often want to make their own decisions but talking to parents helps students choose a major. Parents will be straightforward about their children's strengths and weaknesses. If students are entering a field that other family members already do, they will be realistic about the level of studying needed to complete the coursework. Students who pick a college major after talking to their parents should not be surprised by the amount of work they will have to do.

Talking to a guidance counselor or college advisor helps students choose a college major. Counselor and advisors go through students transcripts with them and helps prepare a game plan. High school guidance counselors help students according to the college they plan to attend in case students need to take particular classes to meet enrollment and department criteria. College advisors tell students what general education and electives they need to take. Advisors will inform students of the GPA needed for different majors.

People who have a hard time narrowing it down to one major can choose to double major in subjects they enjoy or pick a major in one field and minor in another. Some universities offer interdisciplinary degrees in which students pick three or four minors, equaling one major. These options are good for people with multiple interests.

Many college students have difficult times choosing a college major. It takes planning, examining their interests, and talking to mature individuals who can help them find the field of study right for them. Choosing the right major helps students graduate on time and avoid wasting time and money.

Learn more about this author, Cicely Richard.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.