There can be a lot of pressure when coming to college to know what you want to do right away. It is important to know that it’s okay if you don’t know what major to choose right away! The Career Connections Center’s Senior Assistant Director for Career and Professional Development, Allie Simon, gives you five reasons why you shouldn’t be freaking out:

1. Your Major Does Not Equal Your Career

Employers and graduate schools look at far more than just what your degree is in when they look at your application; they look for leadership in student organizations, volunteer/work experiences, and so much more.

2. Experience Will Help You Figure Out What You Want to Study

Work with your academic advisor to find upper-level electives and general education requirements that will help you explore areas you are curious about. A lot of times those “random” classes help us find something we really are passionate about. Your academic advisor can also help you stay on track for multiple majors and/or minors you are considering.

3. Volunteering and Involvement Will Guide You

Volunteering and shadowing often allow us to “try out” a certain major or career to see if we can see ourselves in that field. It is important to have these experiences to help you figure out if this is the right or wrong path for you.

4. Talk to People Involved in the Majors You Are Considering

Professors, graduate students, current students and alumni can give us a lot of information to determine if certain majors are what we are looking for. Listen to their experiences and advice to see if a certain major matches your skillset and interest. Go to them for inspiration!

5. Think About Your Values When Selecting Your Major

What is important to you in life? How will those values be met/unmet in certain majors? When considering what major to choose think about what is important to you and how that major will foster those values.

The Career Connections Center offers multiple services to help you in the journey of finding or changing your major. Some ways you can get started are:

• Make a career planning appointment
• Explore your options with CHOMP
• Attend an Explore Lab or Gator Professional Series Workshop

By Caroline Redmond