For years the only goal of a prospective college student and his/her parents is to get into a college or a university. Based solely on the blood, sweat, and tears that were involved with that quest, the youngsters in that scenario will be surprised at how quickly the adults get over their intense relief, massive pride, and welling tear drops and move right on in to the “What are you planning to major in?” line of incessant questioning.

This makes the almost-adults want to scream “Oh for the love of all things holy! Will you people just shut the hell UP?!!!” Additionally, this is how the parental units make dead certain sure that junior will do everything in his/her power to never ever have to live back at home. Everyone’s a winner!

While there is something to be said for just picking something to ward off parents, teachers, extended family and the guy at the post office, in the end it’s helpful to have put some thought into the final decision. To help the soon-to-be-college-students out with this process, Professors Lynn F. Jacobs and Jeremy S. Hyman made a list of the 10 Questions to Ask Before Picking a Major.

Short Version:

1. Why do I want this major?
2. Do I know enough about this major?
3. What are the requirements for this major?
4. Is my college strong in this major?
5. What are the career opportunities for this major?
6. Is this the right–and only—major for my career path?
7. Have I talked to someone in this major?
8. Am I good at this major?
9. Do I want to pick a traditional major at all?
10. Is it the right time to declare a major?

Further Reading:

College Major Decisions
Special Forces or Law School
The Education of Steve Bugucki
Taking Your Personality Into Account When Making Major Decisions
Words of Wisdom
Top Ten College Majors That Lead to High Salaries

Posted by Alexa Harrington

(image source*)