Choosing a Degree to Study in the USA

I'm trying to figure out what degree to pursue in the USA. How did you decide on your major? Any advice on balancing personal interests with job prospects?

Selecting a degree is a major decision and it often entails striking a balance between areas that you're passionate about and those that have strong job prospects.

First, take some time to reflect on your academic and personal interests. This could involve thinking about which classes you enjoyed in high school or subjects you engage with outside school hours. If you have existing hobbies or interests that align with certain fields of study, this could be a good starting point.

Next, look at job prospects for various fields. You might want to consider questions like: What are the potential job markets in the discipline? What is the average starting salary for a job in this field? What are the career progression opportunities? These factors can significantly influence your decision if financial security is a priority for you.

Also, utilize the resources at your disposal. If you are already at a school, you might utilize academic advisors or career services. If you don't have access to these services, online platforms such as CollegeVine can provide advice and insights.

Remember, your undergraduate major doesn't have to dictate your career. Many fields value a broad range of academic backgrounds. Additionally, many students change their majors once they start college and are exposed to new fields of study.

Finally, there may be flexibility to pursue multiple interests, such as double-majoring, minoring, or completing a major and a certificate program in different areas. There are also interdisciplinary majors which could encompass your range of interests. Consider these options so that you do not feel restricted to a single path.

As an example, if you're interested in both environmental science and policy, you could choose to major in Environmental Science and minor in Political Science. This would allow both your interests and job prospects to be addressed.

Ultimately, the best way to decide on a degree is to focus on what you're enthusiastic about and what will allow you to reach your long-term goals. Don't feel pressured to make the perfect choice right away. Some students don't declare their major until their second year of college after they've had a chance to explore different subjects.