Choosing a Major: The Lowdown
“I went to school with my major all decided. I was pretty stubborn and although I didn’t like the coursework, it was what I thought I wanted. Now, college is over with, and if I could do it again, I’d choose a different major.”
Have you met anyone like that? If so, you’re not alone.
Most students see some kind of major in their future. But after taking college classes in the subject matter, they decide that the major is not worth the hassle. If that’s you, that’s okay! Students do it all the time. I have a friend who wanted to be a doctor after taking a bunch of biology classes and chemistry classes. He was really excited! Then, he spent the summer at a medical school doing a lot more pre-med stuff and got tired of it. He ended up choosing a business major and spending an extra 2 years in school. He then decided he wanted to be a lawyer and started law school. Into his first semester, he dropped out. He’s now doing something along the lines of medical school but not for an MD — and this is over the course of 8 years. Yes, it happens, and no, it’s not abnormal. Here are things to consider when you’re thinking about your major:
Don’t give in to pressure. Don’t choose your major for the wrong reasons. Do you want to become a lawyer just because “the money is good” but be miserable for the rest of your life? If that’s not your cup of tea, don’t force it. I don’t care if your whole family is comprised of mathematicians; you may be the first humanities major in your family if math and science is not for you. Don’t go with a major because it “runs in the family.” It’s always good to be different. (Personally, I like having a wide variety of relatives to count on when it comes to their areas of expertise. If everyone in the family is a doctor and you need accounting advice, you’ll actually have to hire someone.)
Follow your passion. By this point in your life, you know (for the most part) what you like. Did you do particularly better in history than in biology? Did it make you feel good? Does learning about computer circuits interest you? Whatever it is that you like, there’s definitely some major for you. Take a look at what you do best (computer networking, building, writing, etc.) and see what kind of academic discipline applies to it. A good idea would be to write down what you like and brainstorm. Then look at what kind of professions you can envision yourself using to apply your hobbies. Take 30 minutes and write down anything, everything, and for now, don’t discount silly ideas because they can still work for you. Only when the 30 minutes is done should you start grouping these ideas together and finding out what works best for you. Check your academic course guide and see what offerings are available to you.
Commitment. Remember, that 4 year computer science degree may translate to 40 years of employment in an area you’re really not too keen on working in. You should be committed to the area of study because it may be your career. (Then again, keep in mind that a lot of people also don’t take a career in their major, so if you’re just looking to pursue what interests you, go for it!)
Money. Money may influence what you’re looking for when you’re choosing a major. Your computer science degree may not require graduate school and still can offer high-paying jobs. Your law and medical degrees are extra years added on top of college (and loans to pay off). Just remember, though, that money doesn’t have to be the means to the end, at least when it comes to choosing a major. If you’re really good at what you do, the cash will follow, so follow your passion and don’t let the money stand in the way if it doesn’t have to.
Four years is something, but it’s only the beginning. Follow your passion, commit to the task, and let money guide you (only slightly if at all) and you’ll be a lot happier in college than my friends were.
