How to major and minor in college?

Hi there! College is coming up super fast and I still have some questions. I was wondering if someone could explain how to choose a major and minor in college? Like, what's the process and when do I need to declare them?

Hello! I'm happy to help you with your questions about choosing a major and minor in college. The process can slightly vary depending on the college you attend, but generally, it follows these steps:

1. Exploration: During your freshman and possibly sophomore year, you'll likely take general education courses and explore different subjects through your electives. Use this time for exploration to identify your interests and potential major/minor options. Attend major/minor fairs, talk to professors, and consult with your academic advisor to gather more information about the departments you’re considering.

2. Declare your major: Most colleges require students to declare their major by the end of their sophomore year. However, students can usually declare earlier if they already have a clear idea of their desired major. To declare your major, you'll typically need to complete a major declaration form and submit it to the relevant academic department or advising office.

3. Choose a minor (if desired): Minors are optional, but can complement your major or showcase additional expertise in another area of interest. You can usually declare a minor at any time, so long as you’ll still be able to complete the required courses. You may even realize partway through your senior year that you’ve incidentally almost achieved a particular minor, and likely would still be able to declare at that point. However, some minors are more course intensive than others, so if you have something you know for sure you want to minor in, make sure to check the requirements early on.

4. Complete the major/minor requirements: To earn a degree with a major and potentially minor, you'll need to fulfill your college's specific course requirements for both. These usually include a mix of core classes and electives, and sometimes a capstone project or thesis. Collaborate with your academic advisor to plan your course schedule and ensure you're on track to fulfill all requirements.

5. Monitor your progress: Regularly check in with your academic advisor and track your own progress towards completing your major and minor requirements. If you find that your interests change or you struggle in your chosen major/minor, it's possible to switch, although you'll need to keep credit and timeline considerations in mind.

Lastly, remember that flexibility is important. Your college journey is a time to learn, grow, and evolve. It's okay if your interests change, and you decide to change majors or minors. Just be sure to communicate with your advisor to navigate the process efficiently. Best of luck with your academic pursuits!