Why it's OK to be undecided

Maybe you're already sick of the question: "So, what's your major?" It's a natural question to ask college students, but keep this in mind: Most students ask you this question because it's a common denominator, it's something you all have in common, and thereby becomes a great conversation starter.

Other interested people ask you this question for pretty much the same reason. What else do you ask someone who is in college? Just because EVERYONE seems to ask you this question, it doesn't mean that it's the most pressing and important issue at hand. It just gets interpreted that way.

If you want to know the REAL TRUTH, here it is: the choice of your major does not dictate your career path. True, it's an important decision, but it's only one step in the whole career planning process. It's not even the most important step! So how do you decide?

In the meantime, it's just fine to reply: "I have so many options available to me, I'm taking a little bit of time to explore and make a sound decision."

Keep the following in mind:

• Only a few UW-Madison majors require you to get started your freshman year so you can finish on time. Generally, these are in education, engineering, and Bachelor of Music (BM) majors. Others, like Biology majors, or following a Pre-med curriculum, Physical science majors, those interested in business, would do well to get started as early as possible. Most of the time you can wait until your junior year to actually declare your major. Spending time now exploring a variety of majors is a valuable investment, and a good use of your time.
  
• Many college students, some would quote over 75%, change their minds and/or their majors at least once. Don't feel discouraged if you discover your first choice isn't right for you. The smart person changes their mind as necessary. Check with your advisor to discuss how changing your mind/major affects your graduation date and your schedule. An informed decision is a good decision.
  
• Become knowledgeable about the choices available and what they require. Use the catalog, and campus websites. Talk to students and faculty in departments you are considering. In addition, visit the Exploration Center (room. 6 Ingraham Hall) to explore what personal traits you most identify with and enjoy, and find out how this connects with your academic choices. 
  
• Be aware of the fact that there are very few careers that require a specific major. Nursing, engineering, education are a few examples. For most other things, you have a lot of flexibility in choosing a major, so why not pick one you prefer? The number of directions you can go is only limited by what your interests and skills are. A student who majors in English can become a bank manager. A student in philosophy can become a Technical Writer. The most important factor in finding a job after graduation is experience and self-knowledge.
  
• Choose a subject you love, and you increase your level of engagement and motivation.
  
• Focus on developing essential skills and competencies and find ways to gain experience rather than choosing the "right" major. The Career Advisors in the Exploration Center can help you understand the "big picture" and career possibilities