The end of another school year is just beyond the horizon. We can hardly see it, but we know it's coming. With papers, projects and exams, the end of the school year seems like such a far off place. College sophomores have one other issue to deal with as they finish off their second year: declaring a major. Some students know what they want to study as soon as they enter college, and they commit to it. Some students have an idea of what they want to do, take a few classes and pick a major from there. Both situations are easier said then done. To the students who grow more anxious each day about what they want to major in, I want to tell you that you will figure it out. You will come to a decision.
Maybe you're one of those people where everything sounds interesting, and that's great! Then maybe a broader major like communications or business will suit you. A double major is also a viable option, as long as you think you can accomplish it. (I have faith in you!)
Maybe you're part of a five year program and having second thoughts, and to that I say you've already made it here so far. You've beaten the infamous Sophomore Slump (or Sophomore Sobs), and you have become stronger both academically and mentally. Remember the reasons why you wanted to be a part of the program.
Maybe you've been hopping from one major to another, trying to find one that peaks your interest. It's hard to log on to Facebook and see your friends posting about their major, job or internship. It's especially tempting to compare yourself to those friends. They seem to have it together, so why don't you? What's wrong with you?
First of all, nothing is wrong with you. Different people need different amounts of time to make decisions. Second, log off of Facebook. I'm assuming you use Facebook as either a distraction or an excuse to get away from homework (or post Odyssey articles, I don't know). Either way, the path to deciding on a college major is paved for you, by you. Don't major in something because it will give you a well paying job. Don't major in something because your family or friends tell you to. Find a major that makes all the hard work you do seem worthwhile. Maybe you like the process that goes into writing a research paper or the time it takes to finish an engineering project. Maybe, even though you complain to your friends about it, you really enjoy partaking in labs. What I am trying to get at here is to find a major that will allow you to develop skills that can be utilized in a potential dream job.
You know you have chosen the right major when you look back on your work and feel proud of the progress you have made. Your triumphs should override your troubles.
To all of the college sophomores who are eager or anxious (or maybe a combination of the two) about declaring a major, remember that this is a choice for you, by you. This is a choice you will not regret.
