When it comes to college, you hear the question all the time: “What’s your major?” And if you don’t have a clear answer yet, it can feel stressful. But don’t worry — you’re not alone. Lots of Marshall freshmen start out undecided, and there’s plenty of time to explore and figure out what’s right for you.
Here are some tips to help you find your ideal major:
- Think about what excites you: Which classes did you enjoy in high school? What topics do you like reading or watching videos on? Even a hobby you’re passionate about could point you toward a potential major.
- Consider your strengths: Are you great at math, critical thinking, writing or working with others? Some majors might closely align with these skills, helping you enjoy your classes and succeed in your future career.
- Explore career paths: Some majors, such as nursing or engineering, are tied directly to specific jobs. Other majors, such as psychology, English and communications, are more flexible and offer a wide variety of career paths.
- Check job outlooks: While job stability isn’t everything, it’s helpful to know what opportunities are out there and whether any in-demand fields align with your interests.
- Try introductory classes: Gen-eds and electives are a great way to explore different areas before committing to a major.
- Talk to people: Professors, academic advisors, current students and alumni can give you a real sense of what a major is actually like.
- Reach out to professionals: Have you heard of informational interviews? They’re a low-stakes way to connect with someone in a field you’re interested in and learn how they got there.
- Don’t stress about getting it “right”: Many students change their majors, and the truth is that your choice now doesn’t lock in your future forever.
Looking for expert advice about majors? The Office of Undergraduate Admissions can help you explore the many programs and majors Marshall has to offer.