How do you decide what to study in college?

Choosing a college major seems really stressful! For those who know what to study when they get in, how'd you figure it out? Were there specific interests, or did something else guide your decision? I'm looking for tips to help plan my next steps.

Several factors can influence your choice of a college major. For some students, natural inclinations play a big role. If you have a favorite subject or hobby, that's a good place to start. Think about the activities or topics you tend to gravitate toward in your free time. If you get really excited about chemistry experiments, a STEM field like Chemistry or Biochemistry might be a good fit. If you can't stop reading novels, maybe you'd enjoy majoring in English or Literature.

However, interest isn't the only factor. Career aspirations can also significantly influence your choice. If you have a specific job or professional field in mind, like law or medicine, consider majors that align with or prepare you for that goal. For instance, Biology or Health Sciences often pave the way for medical school, while Political Science can be a good precursor to law school. Keep in mind that this isn't a strict rule: there's no one "correct" pathway to any career, and diverse areas of study can bring unique perspectives to a profession.

Practical considerations like job availability and potential income also come into play for many students. Resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provide lots of information on the job outlook for different fields, which can help you determine if your desired major is likely to lead to solid job opportunities after graduation.

Lastly, don't feel pressured to have everything figured out right away. It's okay to start college as an undecided major. Many colleges offer exploratory programs or general education requirements that can expose you to a wide variety of subjects. Through taking these courses, you might discover new interests or rediscover old ones, which can lead you to your ideal major. Good luck with planning your next steps, and remember, it's okay to take your time and explore your options!