Ah, to be undeclared as a major in college. So many questions that are unanswered, so many things to discover. Being undeclared is almost a stigma on any college campus - everyone around you seems to have already chosen their life path, whereas you have trouble choosing what you want for lunch that day. Despite the eager go-getter attitude that most declared students seem to have about their majors, about 80 percent of college students change their majors. Being the daughter of a veteran career counselor, I have too long known the struggle of not really knowing what to do with my life, and hoping and praying that I am not asked too many questions about my future from people on my campus. That being said, here are some commonly asked questions that myself and fellow undeclared students receive, and often do not look forward to answering.
1. What is your major?
The big whammo. Every time you meet someone new on a college campus, this is almost always the first question you are asked. Often times when I make an acquaintance with someone I try to veer the conversation to some other topic, but it gets brought up eventually. Students are often so passionate about their majors that they want to hear the passions that their friends share, but undeclared students do not know where to put their passion yet. It's somewhat embarrassing for me to admit that I do not have a major, because the fruit of my college experience is not quite ripe yet. Which brings me to the next question...
2. Well, if you don't have a major, do you have any ideas on what you might want to major in?
This question can have multiple responses from undeclared students. Some have too many interests and have a hard time picking just one, some have a general idea of what they want to do but still aren't sure or cannot pick a study to specialize in, and some have literally no idea. It is a question that can often cause the person asking you the question to give you advice on what they think you should do, or personal experiences they have. The unique experiences of an undeclared student lead them to be much more open to options than declared ones, but it can be difficult when everyone around you is giving you an idea. And such...
3. Why don't you major in (this area)?
This is often in response to an undeclared student talking about an area of interest they have. Again, this could be the result of the undeclared student wanting that interest to simply stay an interest, or fearing to not be skilled enough in the area. Additionally, many declared students or faculty/staff will suggest a major for an undeclared student not by their interests, but from personal experience or rumors. Such as "You should major in bio with me because I think bio is awesome"! Or, "Why don't you major in engineering? There are many jobs available for engineers". Often, teachers will jokingly tell the undeclared student to major in the field that the teacher specializes in. Which goes along with this...
4. Why are you taking this class?
All college students get answered this question. Some would reply with: General Education, an interest in the subject material, or a major requirement, etc. But for undeclared students, it's different. Though many are indeed Gen Ed requirements, often times an undeclared student will pick a class for the subject matter, which can be a double-edged sword. For some undeclared students, picking a class they have interest in may help them find the Holy Grail, the one major they have been searching for. But for others, it could add to the list of multiple potential majors, further increasing the dilemma. Some may hate the class afterwards and eliminate it from the list. It is quite a tricky process.
5. Why did you pick this school if you don't have a major?
College students often pick their school because of the program offered for their major. But for undeclared students, a program does not exist. Thus, answering this question from an undeclared perspective may come with a wide range of responses. "This school offered me a great scholarship", or "It's the right amount of distance from my home". When an undeclared student may pick their major, it may not have as good as a program at their current school, and they may have to transfer, leading to more anxious feelings. It is a never ending circle.
Being undeclared is certainly not uncommon, but it can be very difficult to be so when your world is constantly moving at a fast pace. Not everyone will understand why you are having trouble making these decisions, and the pressure can often be felt. But, by focusing on your college career, you can discover the great majors that are out there for you, and one by one, you can piece together what you wish to do with your options. You can always be sure to visit your school's career center. They deal with this on a regular basis, and may be able to answer the question that has been wracking your brain. So go forth, and don't be scared of the monster that is college!
