I would like to get your opinions on whether students should declare their majors as soon as they start college. As a high school student, I dreamed of being a sports writer. When I arrived on campus at Spring Hill College, I immediately declared my major in Communications, only to regret that decision two years later. With that said, I had multiple friends and fellow classmates that declared immediately and went on to enjoy their decisions.
Should college freshman declare their majors before they take their first classes if they believe that is what they want to do? Or should they take core classes for a semester or two and then make a decision?
I believe commitment is crucial in college although I do think there should be a probationary period. Maybe the first semester or year have a pending commitment and then finalize the commitment after taking at least one course towards the major. I entered undergraduate studies without a major, took one year of core classes and a few electives that I found interesting. I enjoyed my nutrition class so much that I went to me advisor and asked about possible majors and job opportunities in a nutrition major. I then declared my major. While I now do not work in a field where my major is relevant, I do feel that I have a passion for nutrition after studying it for four years.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Katie, commitment is essential to a successful college experience. That being said, I think it is different for everyone. Some people have no idea what they want to do with their lives. These people need to take their basics and explore their career options for a year or two. On the other hand, some people have already decided on their career path. I've known since I was a little girl that I wanted to be a teacher. I used to play school with my baby dolls and use my VHS tapes as books. There was never a doubt in my mind that I was going to be a teacher. I think declaring a major should be on a case by case basis, no two people are alike.
ReplyDeleteGreat question, Matt! I know more people than not who have changed there major at least once throughout college. Although it seems necessary to declare a major upon entering (to avoid taking extra classes that won't build towards your degree), I think it's hard to believe that the majority of freshman actually know what they want to do when they begin school. I wanted to be a French teacher, then I wanted to be a journalist, but I graduated as a communications student, and here I am now wanting to be a teacher! I think it's a good idea to wait a semester or so before declaring a major. Students can get a feel for college and their interests and strengths.
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