Tuesday 7 October 2014

By Jocelyn Davidson





Going to college is a great achievement for anyone. However, it is also a difficult yet critical time since you are choosing a major. Majors are important as they shape the path that your career will take. For other students, they pick an area to specialize in because it is what they are interested in and would like to learn more about the subject.



For example, a student who wants to specialize in history does so out of the desire to learn more history not necessarily to pursue a career as an historian. After college they will have acquired skills that will enable them get to any other related career. Specific career majors include medicine, nursing, engineering and business. The aim of such areas is solely to prepare the student for a career in the field.



The first step is research about what it is that you want to do. Consider what you feel passionate about or a skill that you or others around you think you have. For instance, if you have always been the one helping friends with homework after school and they love coming to you because you are good at it then you may want to specialize in education.



Holding conversations with seniors, career counselors and friends is also a great way to identify the area of specialization. Friends matter because they are able to pinpoint facts about us that we are not aware of. Even if they cannot bluntly give the major to be pursued, general guidelines are welcome. Career counselors know the structure of the job market and most careers. Talking to them about your interests and strengths they may be able to match you up with a suitable area of specialization.



Seniors or upper classmen are ahead of you and have made the major decision already. There is a lot one can learn from their mistakes, success stories and experiences. Your story does not have to be like theirs but learning from their mistakes is great. Professionals in the area of specialization to pursue provide insight into the real aspect of the career.



Check the syllabus of the subject you think would interest you. Look at assignments, books and course content. If the material is compelling enough it is natural to want to know more about that particular academic discipline. If you find it difficult or boring it may not be the best for you. The location of the college where it is offered is also important.



It is easy to disregard job and salary potential when making this important decision. However, it is important that you major in something where you can easily get a job employed or self employed. However, do not go for the top paying college subjects which do not match your passion, interest, hobbies or skill. Affordability and means of financing are also important aspects to consider.



Lastly, selecting a major is not a life or death matter. It is possible to change careers and also go back to school even after college. The most important thing is choosing a subject which you love and is close to what you envisioned to do after college. It should also match your skills and ability.









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