Time to narrow down the college plan. I still cannot believe I have a high school graduate this year. The Class of 2017, mind blown......This is one of the most exciting and stressful time for young adults (and their parent/parents).
There are a few questions that should have been answered by now but one question that according to studies does not need to be answered by this point is what will your college-bound senior major in. Guess what? An estimated 80% of high school students entering college have no officially declared major. They are heading into college with an undecided major. That seems insane, right? How will they pick a college, apply to college, and start a degree with no idea what they are majoring in but on the flip side of this, an estimated 50% of students who actually have a declared major end up switching majors as many as three times during their college journey. What?
It is very important that high school students be given opportunities to grow and develop so they are able to make good life decision which includes their college major. Homeschooling has provided my kiddos with a myriad of opportunities, and they know they are the lucky ones. They have not been stifled sitting in a cold, brick building with fluorescent lighting for eight hours a day with 30 other kids all the same age year after year after year (YAWN). They have been on the outside moving and shaking.
I have learned a few tips on choosing a major.
Picking a major is really about beginning your future.
Be flexible but also pick a major that is realistic for you and your situation.
Take a career/personality test. Links below.
Follow your passion, otherwise, you are not going to be happy at the end of the day. What inspires you? Usually people do a better job if it is something they love doing. Getting paid for it is also a good thing, a necessary thing unless you plan to live off your parents for the rest of their lives. HA! I know a few of those.
Know as much as possible about your career choice. You may have this career for the next 20, 30, or even 40 years. Is that doable?
During your high school years, take at least one public speaking class or something similar so you will be more comfortable with an audience.
If you are able to shadow someone in your chosen field, go for it! This is a great way to get a firsthand look into what the day-to-day will look like.
It is not generally a good idea to major in a field because another family member or members have that job. If your mother is an attorney, it does not mean you should also be an attorney. Makes sense to me unless being an attorney is your passion. If not following in a parent's footstep causes disappointment, then they need to learn to live with it. You have to live your life independently from theirs. It is your life.
My final tips is if you can give back to your community through your career, everyone wins!
Good luck college-bound graduates and anyone else reading this.
Majors Career Quiz.
12th graders college checklist.
More Aptitude tests.
One more link for an Aptitude test.
Student's guide to choosing a major.
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