Is It That Time Yet? Declaring A College Major
DALLAS (CBSDFW) - Declaring a major in college can sometimes be difficult. Some students may not know what to major in while others major in things that don't quite fit their personality description. A simple way to find your major do what you love and perform what your good in.
For me, the decision was not so simple. It took research, patience, hands-on learning and strategic thinking to find my major, making time management a valuable and important factor during my search. I first evaluated all classes I completed, built a relationship with professors, students, researched and stayed focused on my goal by keeping a solid and confident position. I took on my journey to find and declare my major.
Starting my college career I was undecided. No idea what I wanted to do. I was undoubtedly indecisive, and I wanted to do everything. Seriously, I played each role. But the outcome was not well. I chose political science.
1. Make sure you keep track of the various classes that you have taken either in high school or within the first year(s) of college. Upon declaring or even entering college you should be able to understand and acknowledge classes that you have taken, and found interest in. Write them down.
I took a few classes the first semester, participated in school function/productions, I attended job fairs and took a career placement class to determine which major best fit. I thought psychology class was pretty neat, biology was cool, but I'm a Thespian.
2. Narrow down your findings. See what fits you best. Ask yourself which classes you like best and why did you like it? Build understanding and personal benefits. While applying knowledge, open your imagination and begin to eliminate classes that didn't grab your attention.
I thought I had an idea so I ran towards Business marketing, consumer science and merchandising. But there was a problem, "I don't hate math, math hates me." I told my mother. Wrong turn!
I was determined to find my major and the job of a lifetime.
3. Get to know other students/professors that can offer additional information about the major. Students probably had the same problem as you, it's not a big deal. I began asking prone questions, "What do you major in? What jobs do you expect to get? What else can you do with your degree?" Majoring in a specific subject limits your chances. Keep an open mind and don't get too detailed, most employers want a person who is versatile and knows 'A little bit of everything.'
I received the phone call. I got the internship! Well, since I didn't know what to major in I decided to take an educational, fun and extreme turn to the most magical place in the world, WALT DISNEY WORLD INTERNSHIP PROGRAM. Here I met people from all over the world and I networked, a lot! I talked with Business professionals, employees, directors even park guests. I took a few classes, giving a strict dedication to my searching. There is when I retained valuable information. My professor at Disney University led me to the great major Public Relation specialist. It was awesome, but I was still not satisfied.
I wanted more details about the major.
4. Do your Research. Students seem to run towards the 'Money making' major. WRONG IDEA! Strategically get information regarding your major, find what jobs you can bid with your degree and major. Make sure to keep those imaginary caps on, and expand the thoughts of jobs, and return to the major that best fits.
So I knew I was the communicator. Public relations was great I speak well, I'm not afraid of the camera and I work well with others and if there was a message that needed to be put together I was the best at it. I express myself freely and I'm not afraid of a challenge. But why do I have to limit PR to just speaking? I took a look at my journal and it came to me; I love to write. I had to think bigger and broader. Everything had to fit in one. The light bulb brightened-Broadcast Journalism.
5. Don't get side-tracked. The Major description is specified and already having requirements to meet in your university's handbook. This is where imaginative minds come alive. Being versatile is one of the most major high points while in college and in careers. Stick with your major and see how it applies to other goals you plan to achieve. If deciding to minor make sure to keep an open mind to other subjects that cater to your major but not necessarily the same degree. Grab more attention to the creative/versatile side. Stay focused!
Excited about Journalism opinions still lingered "That career is very competitive." "Will you be guaranteed a job?" "You have to write, read, and travel a lot" "odd hours!" I was nervous, but my inner feeling was telling me to go, full force. I found this is what I enjoy doing, it's the front door that leads me to every goal I plan to succeed. My counselor knew my potential and encouraged me to go with my heart, having no doubts of my success. I declared. Broadcast Journalism with a minor Theatre/performing Arts. I needed something that related to the Arts and also made an income to support myself. If it were up to me I would have strictly stuck to The Arts or fashion. But now I could write about fashion and with the help of broadcast be a television anchor/ news reporter where I can exercise my theatre skills. I used my imagination cap to find my major and trust me I couldn't be happier.
Still unsure? well.. here is another option
Are you the person who goes from computer engineering to playing in the NFL? There is also a degree that may fit (Not literally, but figuratively), a liberal arts degree is an option. A liberal arts degree is to produce a virtuous, knowledgeable and articulate person including mathematics, geometry, music, astronomy and history. Students sometimes veer away from what they love to get a bigger paycheck and usually do not succeed in specific majors. This makes the process of graduating with a profitable degree minimal. Liberal Arts gives you flexibility with guidance to concentrate in one field of study but mainly liberal. Most importantly major in a subject you can successfully complete.
The journey I took to find my major was not a simple one. My choices were broad and it became very frustrating at times. But I did it, and if so happens I never use my major, just the satisfaction of knowing it was my decision is all I need. I continued my education grasping math and received my associates degree in Business. So, Put on your imaginative caps, network and pick a major.
Sierra Williams is a Summer Intern for CBSDFW.COM
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