Feeling pressured to decide on a college major?

I'm a high school junior and everyone keeps asking me what I want to major in. I'm so unsure and the pressure is getting to me. Is it okay to not have a clear plan yet, and how do I deal with this pressure?

It's okay to be unsure about your major during your junior year of high school. Many students don't decide on a major until some time in college, and it's common to change your major at least once during your college career. In fact, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 30% of undergraduates in associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs change their major at least once within their first three years.

To deal with the pressure, try focusing on areas that interest you and consider potential career paths they may lead to. If you aren't sure what interests you, try taking electives in different areas. You could also chat with people who are working in fields that interest you. Knowing professionals in various fields can help you get a sense of what it would be like to work in those areas.

Rather than focusing specifically on the question of what you're "going to do," consider the broader question of what kind of problems you want to solve or what type of impact you want to have on the world. This can open up multiple pathways for you, rather than boxing yourself into a specific profession or major.

Additionally, it might be helpful to remind those who are asking about your major that you're still exploring your options and considering multiple paths. It's perfectly normal to not have your life fully planned out in high school, and it's important to take the time to discover what truly excites you without rushing into a premature decision.