How to Decide on a University Major

If you are a recent high-school graduate, or even if some time has passed after the fact, you are likely contemplating what to major in during your university years. This is by no means an easy decision to make, given that your choice will affect your job in the future.

Thus, how do you make this type of decision? It is important to spend some time reflecting and consider what you realistically see yourself doing. What are your interests? You may even want to take courses across different fields until you find something that you are happy with. Give yourself time to do this and remember that you can change your mind at any point, regardless of what your age is, and even if you have been working in a particular industry for several years now.

Determine what your interests are

It is said that 84% of young people are not pursuing their passion, and this is an alarmingly high rate of individuals who are not taking a chance on themselves or pursuing their interests.

In order for you to not fall into this category, make sure to consider what you enjoy doing, and write these interests down on paper so that it is easier to contemplate your options.

Take courses across different fields

Why not take courses across different fields, until you find something that you are happy with? If you start in a major that you realise is not interesting you anymore, you may as well broaden your horizon.

Imagine yourself working in that career

Can you visualise yourself working in the career that your courses are setting you up for? You may even want to speak to some experts who are currently working in a job that you are interested in.

For example, if you are interested in fitness and health and want to become a personal trainer, why not speak to some individuals that are already trained in this field? Moreover, once you have decided that it is something you want to pursue, keep in mind that you should find a reputable organisation for you to complete the necessary courses through. In some cases, you may not even need a university degree, as a personal trainer can become trained through a gym, and can complete the PT courses available in London (UK), or through other cities in the United Kingdom depending on where you live.

Give yourself time

At the end of the day, give yourself time to make a choice that you will enjoy. While you are at university or getting specialised training in a respective field, you should simply focus on your education, and not have to worry about the job you will receive after the fact. In other words, be sure to take this process one step at a time.

Understand you can change your mind at any time

Keep in mind that it’s never too late to switch your career path. You could even be in your 30s or 40s, and you still have the option to go back to school or take additional courses in order to upgrade within a certain field.

Choosing a university major is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life, as it will largely affect your career, and how you will spend a large chunk of your time during the day. It’s important to remember that you must choose something that you personally enjoy, and never feel trapped, at any point, in a career or major that is making you feel unhappy.

Tags: career path, university majors

Category: College and Careers