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Factors Involved with Choosing a Major

• Am I Choosing a Major or a Career
  Not all life plans have a single or specific academic major that leads directly to them.
• Understanding the World of Work:
  Sometimes just knowing what is out there and available can help.
• Self Exploration:
  Understanding who we really are is a lifelong process. Having a good picture of whom you are presently and where you want to go is a great tool in the decision making process.
• Decision Making:
  Not everybody has taken time to look at the components of decision making. By doing so you may be able to identify just where it is that you are stuck.
• Understanding Major Requirements:
  A close examination of the requirements of a degree may help you identify if a major is going to be congruent with your interests.

Choosing a Major

Deciding on a major may not be as simple as some people make it seem. Not everybody knows what they want to study. Sometimes even those who say they do may not be as sure as they think. Students begin the university experience with vast differences in life experience. Each student has had limited exposure to the world of work and therefore may or may not have had a chance to see just what options are out there. Some students have refined decision making approaches while others are still developing these skills. Other students have been so focused during their late adolescence that they have simply left the “major” decision for later.

Regardless of why a student is stuck on this decision it is not uncommon for individuals to struggle when it comes time to declare a major. In the left-hand column are a number of factors that are often part of the “major” decision-making process. Any or all may apply to you and by reviewing them you will get some information that may help you get closer to making that step.

Not all students are able to find the solutions to this dilemma by simply reviewing information on the web. If this applies to you there are a great number of resources available on campus at SUU. Advisors and counselors in Career Services, The Student Success Center and the Wellness Center are all available to assist students with this process. Career Services and University Studies also sponsor a course Career Decisions (UNIV 1020) that is a great opportunity for students to earn 2 elective credits while participating in activities that support the Major Decision-Making Process.

To start this process for yourself print the Career Decision-Making Portfolio get in touch with an advisor or counselor and get on your way.

GOOD LUCK!

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