I'm a first-gen student, and trying to find my footing in the college scene feels a bit overwhelming. Just wanted to ask, are there specific college majors where first-generation students are frequently enrolled? It might be comforting to have some peers who're in the same boat as I am.
First-generation students can be found in every major, but some programs tend to enroll more first-generation students than others.
Data shows that certain majors like Business Administration, Health Professions, Social Sciences, and Education regularly attract a significant number of first-generation college students. Some reasons could be the direct career paths associated with these majors and the fact that they often don't require extensive resources or outside experiences that may be harder for first-gen students to access.
Business Administration and Management, in particular, is popular due to its practical nature and variety of job opportunities after graduation. Health professions, too, are often chosen as they offer clear, structured pathways to solid careers, such as nursing or healthcare administration.
Moreover, majors in Education and Social Sciences may attract first-gen students because of the opportunities to drive change and make their communities better, which is a common motivator among this group of aspirants.
Remember though, it's essential to choose a major that truly interests you and aligns with your career goals. While it can be comforting to have peers who understand your experiences, in the end, the major you choose should be one you're passionate about and can see yourself doing in the future. Having fellow first-gen students around can be a support system, but don't let it be the sole factor in major selection. Seek out other supports, like first-gen student clubs or offices, mentors, and college-transition programs.
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