Photography for Merrimack College.

How to Choose a Major

Not sure what you want to study? Don’t worry! Feeling unsure is totally normal, but many students rush into picking a major because they feel like they have to. 

It is okay to apply to—and attend—college as an undeclared major! In the meantime, here are some resources that might help:

O*NET: This database allows you to search for potential career paths based on skills, interests, abilities, work styles and more. So, even if you don’t know what you want to study, you can find something based on your individual strengths and characteristics. 

What Can I Do With This Major: This tool helps you explore all the potential career paths and opportunities for a major—including some you probably never even thought of! 

Occupational Outlook Handbook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has tons of great insights on what your major could look like as a future career. Simply choose a career cluster and major to see average salaries, or explore careers based on new job growth, highest paying and more. 

Most careers don’t require a single major and people can land in fields from a variety of different backgrounds and pathways. The secret is to take the skills you learn (data management, project coordination and public speaking to name a few!) and apply them to real life situations. 

Remember: your major is one small piece of the puzzle and it does not define your future or put you in a career “box” that you’re stuck in forever. Adults change careers just as often as students change majors!  

DID YOU KNOW?

An estimated 20–50% of students enter college undecided, while an estimated 75% report having changed their major at least once!

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