Majors. It may seem it's all everyone ever talks about - especially if you're a college student. What are you studying? What do you plan on pursuing in college? What is your major? Your minor? What is your plan for the rest of your life?
If these questions result in an anxious feeling, a knot in your stomach, a strange pressure in your chest, you're not alone. In fact, I used to stay up until early mornings researching certain majors and minors, certain fields of interest, jobs associated with these fields, average salaries, projected industry growth - you get the point. I pretty much drove myself insane with creating a plan for my life - to discover what I was going to study and then be successful in the field. But as it turns out, it may not actually matter so much. Here are some myths I'd like to discuss and share my opinion about.
1. It's not worth going into college 'Undecided'
I came in as an Exploratory Major at Ithaca. I am still in the program. It allows me the opportunity to explore fields of interest in depth, sign up for classes first, and go to all sorts of events to meet amazing people who have stories just like mine. I have truly been able to explore my options in college, both through opportunities presented to me and through my class Exploring The Options. In the class, we discuss our work values, the value of a major, and compare and contrast different areas of interest. And that has been very, very helpful. Now, I have been able to confidently decide on what I want to major in, as well as double minor in, and make sure I can still study abroad!
2. Employers focus a lot on what you major in
Based on research presented, and reading I've done on my own, I think it is safe to say that this is not always the case. Of course, your employer may look at your major and ask about what you gained from your studies. However, depending on what field you are going into, employers do not necessarily care about the content matter of your major as much as how well you can effectively communicate, lead, and manage your time, for example.
3. You need to major in the field you're headed into
First of all, how in the world are you supposed to know what you want to do for the rest of your life at eighteen years old? If you do, that's great! But for the rest of us, life is a journey - not something you can plan out and then just ride the ride. College is an opportunity to explore these different options, and find what you love - what you can not live without doing. It provides direction for life after school. It is a privilege to go to college, but remember - it's not the end all be all experience of life. It's a continuation of living life, and finding your way.
4. But you pay so much money to get a degree and eventually get a job
It's not actually that straight-forward. No degree guarantees a job. Sure, some fields have greater projected growth in the future than others, such as the Health Industry. And yes, if you're planning on becoming a doctor, you probably want to think long and hard and commit to Med School before investing potentially millions in your education. However, no major guarantees a job. But - the skills you develop from your time at college and in school provide you with a better advantage and skill set than those you are competing against for that job or internship.
5. Major in something that will make money
First off, a degree does not necessarily ensure vast amounts of money. Also - you can make millions and be miserable. What is the point in living if you hate life? Okay, you have money, but where does that get you? If you have a passion, something you can not live without doing, why not pursue it? You will find a way to get by if it is truly so important to you. Also, you have ONE life! Just go for it - and if it does not work out, remember: There are multiple paths to achieve the same goal.
So Basically...
If you're a senior in high-school, trust me. Just chillax a little. I wish someone had given me that advice. If you decide to declare your major going into college, you should know that you will most likely end up switching. And that is okay. Part of going to college is learning about how to enjoy the ride, and go along with all the unexpected things that will happen to you. Learn to be okay with uncertainty. And trust me - it's definitely easier said than done. Just know that others are feeling the same way. Have confidence that everything will turn out just fine as long as you work hard and stay motivated. You've got this!
