Major Decisions
Considering Indiana University offers a multitude of degrees; how is one to choose? Most students begin college with some idea of what they want to study, but it is not uncommon for them to change majors. My own children; I have two; both changed majors at least once….so far. My eldest daughter was sure to follow in my tracks as a nurse only to find that after taking a few science classes, a major change to the business school was in order. I used to envy those students who knew exactly what they wanted to do with their lives and stuck with it, but then I learned to appreciate the opportunity to explore and possibly find something new that lands us just where we need to be.
Choosing and changing a major isn’t always easy. There are several ways you can support your student as they are trying to decide or consider changing a major. One of the main reasons students reconsider or hesitate to declare a major is because they do not understand the career options associated with it. Encourage your student to visit the Career Center website where they will find multiple resources to help them.
Students at IU are encouraged to choose a major upon admission, but there is also an option to choose Exploratory as a major, which allows students to take a variety of classes and declare during sophomore year. This allows students to literally explore their interests. Students interested in this option can visit the Walter Center for Career Achievement located in Ernie Pyle Hall, second floor. The center is currently open for virtual services only on weekdays from 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. or visit virtual services or call (812) 856-4278 for assistance. Make the most of any interests and skills while taking all those required general education courses and use that time to uncover avenues that may lead to a new study and career choices.
Another way you can support your students is by encouraging them to Get Involved on campus or in the community. Student organizations, part-time jobs, or volunteer roles are all good ways for students to investigate career options and network with professionals. There are a great many clubs and organizations at IU that students can get involved in. Job shadowing is another great way to explore. IU launched the IU Shadow Program to assist students in finding potential job shadowing opportunities. Family friends are also a great resource and can often allow a more open conversation about specific careers due to an existing relationship.
If a student is interested in entering a college from Univerity Division or another IU school, either way, check out even more information. There are so many classes out there that may change their lives, but they won’t know until they take them. Spending a little time surveying, investigating, and exploring can lead to some eye-opening adventures and life-changing discovery. Now is the time to do it.
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