Choosing majors and minors is one of the first steps in your college journey. It feels like it should be easy – but with so many options out there, many new students don’t know where to begin. It’s not uncommon to start off “undecided” – and that’s ok! Even if you have a general idea of the industry you want to work in, pairing that interest with the right degrees can be a challenge.
The good news is there’s no shortage of resources to help! From video guides on major and minor options to chatting with an admissions counselor, these tips can help you choose the path that’s right for you – and even uncover unique opportunities that will give your professional readiness the leg-up!
Tip #1: Start with your interests and career ambitions
While you might not know how your passions can translate into a career, you’ll be surprised once you dig in! It all starts with the “why” behind how you choose your major: your interests, goals, where you could make an impact, and what types of careers feel right for the long term.
If you don’t know where to start, consider taking a career assessment test to help guide your search and learn about career paths you might not have known existed. Additionally, some universities like UW-Green Bay partner with Candid Career+ and offer video features that provide even more insight into the career opportunities for the road ahead.
Tip #2: Learn about the limit (or no limit!) on multiple majors and minors
Can you have more than one major and minor? Often, yes! But how many depends on the school and its program opportunities. Having more academic freedom allows you to choose majors and minors that either complement each other or diversify your skillset – giving you the opportunity to personalize your studies to fit interests and career goals.
At UW-Green Bay, there is no limit to the number of majors and minors you can enroll in! With nearly 100 options available, you can take advantage of that flexibility to create a unique educational path that aligns with your ambitions.
Tip #3: Uncover unique learning opportunities
Each school’s learning environment is different, and many degrees offer unique learning opportunities, hands-on training and community and business partnerships that can enhance your experience and career preparedness. Additionally, clubs and learning communities on campus work to surround themselves with like-minded, ambitious peers who support each other’s rise.
For example, if you’ve got an entrepreneurial spirit and want a “real world” classroom setting, a place like the Charles Schwab Center for Financial Wellness can offer one-of-a-kind experiences that accelerate your growth and prepare you for your own start-up success.
Tip #4: Career and academic services are here to help!
Once you’re enrolled, career and academic services are invaluable resources at your disposal. Advisors are trained experts at providing guidance and insight to people at this juncture in their college journey, helping students find a pathway to achieve their passions and ambitions.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to specialize, they know the degree options inside and out and will help you feel confident about your decision.
Choosing a major and minor is an important step in your educational journey and career preparation. But, if you take advantage of the abundance of resources and support at your disposal, you can navigate this process with confidence.
Remember, college is a time of exploration, and it’s perfectly okay to change your majors and minors as your interests evolve. While it’s common to be unsure about which majors and minors are right for you, following these tips can help you get on the right track from day one. If you’d like to learn more about your perfect degree path at UW-Green Bay, start your rise today!