How to support your student in choosing or changing a major
If your student is choosing a major or thinking about changing their current one, you can help by listening, asking questions and encouraging them to explore their interests, goals and academic options.Ìý
It’s common for students to feel unsure about their major or discover new interests once they start college. Choosing or changing a major can take time, and ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ offers advising, career exploration tools and other resources to help students make an informed decision.Ìý
Here are ways you can support your student as they explore their options.Ìý
Start by listening and asking questionsÌý
You may be tempted to help your student find an answer, especially if they’re feeling uncertain. Instead, start by asking questions that can help them reflect on what they’ve learned about themselves.Ìý
You might ask:Ìý
- What classes or topics have you enjoyed most?Ìý
- What kinds of problems or questions do you like working on?Ìý
- Which classes or experiences have felt most meaningful?Ìý
- Are there subjects you’ve enjoyed even when they were challenging?Ìý
- What skills would you like to develop?Ìý
- What matters to you when you think about your future work or life?Ìý
Listen for what seems to interest or motivate your student. Sharing your perspective can be helpful, too, while giving them room to make the final decision.Ìý
Your student can also try the , a free tool that can help them identify what matters most to them in their future career.Ìý
Give them room to explore their optionsÌý
Students may discover majors they didn’t know existed or find that their interests connect to several academic programs. Encourage your student to explore multiple possibilities rather than feeling pressure to identify one perfect choice right away.Ìý
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ offers tools that can help:Ìý
- Majors Card Sort: Students can explore ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ majors that align with their interests and goals.Ìý
- Programs from a Different Lens: Students can find programs with similar features and compare course topics, learning outcomes and how classes are taught.Ìý
- I want to ...: The Program in Exploratory Studies offers another way to explore academic programs based on what students are interested in doing or learning.Ìý
If your student has time to explore, they might also consider taking a course in an area that interests them. An academic advisor can help them understand how that course may fit into their degree plan.Ìý
Keep career possibilities in perspectiveÌý
A student's major can influence their career path, but a major and a career don't always have a one-to-one relationship. Some careers require specific academic preparation, while many others draw on skills that can be developed through a variety of majors.Ìý
Encourage your student to explore both what they can do with majors that interest them and the different academic paths that could lead toward careers they're considering.Ìý
These resources can help:Ìý
- What Can I Do with This Major?: Students can explore common majors, related career areas and types of employers.Ìý
- Informational interviews: Talking with professionals can help students learn about different careers and the paths people took to get there. They can also talk with other Buffs about their experiences in majors they’re considering.Ìý
Encourage them to understand the academic impactÌý
If your student is considering changing majors, encourage them to learn how the change could affect their academic plan before making a decision. Depending on the programs involved, they may need to consider required courses, prerequisites, how completed credits will apply and their expected graduation timeline.Ìý
A few resources can help them understand their options:Ìý
- Degree audits: Students can review degree requirements and see how their completed and planned courses apply. Department websites and the university catalog can provide additional program information.Ìý
- Academic advising: An advisor can help your student compare programs, understand requirements and think through how choosing or changing a major could affect their academic plan.Ìý
- Ralphie’s Advising Help Lab: This supplemental resource offers quick help with general advising and enrollment questions, including questions about switching majors.Ìý
Understanding these details doesn't mean your student shouldn’t make a change. It can help them know what to expect and make a decision with more information.Ìý
Support the decision without making it for themÌý
Families can be an important source of encouragement during this process. Try to stay curious about what your student is learning and give them space to weigh their options.Ìý
If they're feeling stuck, encourage them to talk with people who can offer additional perspectives. Academic advisors can help with degree planning and program requirements, while Career Services can help students explore how their interests, skills and values connect with majors and career possibilities.Ìý
Your student can also learn more about finding a major and use Career Services throughout their time at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ as their interests and goals continue to develop.Ìý