Major Misconceptions
Misconception #1: You should declare a major in your first year or you’re wasting your time.
Fact: The truth is that it’s alright to start out with an undeclared major. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that in 2003-4, more than a fifth of college students were enrolled with an undeclared major. But was their time in school wasted? Not at all! They took advantage of the benefits of a post-secondary education, expanding their knowledge, and building critical skills.
However, many schools expect students to declare a major before they complete their sophomore year. Have a talk with your advisor or visit your school’s advisement office to see how you can you lock into a more focused direction and get prepared for the workforce after you graduate.
Misconception #2: You should stick with your major or your graduation will be delayed.
Fact: It’s alright to change your major. Most schools establish a core of general education requirements. Your first year can be well spent in accumulating credits, building academic skills, exploring college resources, and getting exposed to what other people are doing. Shop around for major ideas and you’ll be better able to choose your perfect major.
Be aware, though, that while it’s fine to change your major, be realistic. Switching too many times could delay your graduation, making your education more expensive if you tack on another semester or two – or three or four. Not that there’s anything wrong with this – unless your education budget is an issue.
Misconception #3: Your major should be directly connected to your career goals and determined by the current job market.
Fact: Technological and economic shifts are transforming our world so rapidly that the job you get after graduation may not even exist yet. The “hot jobs” of today may not be available or desirable once you graduate. The Bureau of Labor Statistics concludes that people, on average, change careers at least three times.
While enrollments in applied occupational fields – like education, health, the social sciences, and business – continue to rise, our multi-tasking generation is likely to find job satisfaction as they cross the boundaries of disciplines. For example, a study conducted by AT&T found that employees with liberal arts degrees had greater chances for promotions and were better skill at management than those with technical or business degrees!