I just got an e-mail from a student who is worried about choosing the wrong major, and I thought this topic deserved a little attention. Truth is, a good percentage of incoming freshman enter college without declaring a field of study.  Statistics estimate that 75% of students change their major at least once in their educational career. This can be very time consuming and costly. Fortunately, there are a few ways to experience a field of study without committing hours of study time and thousands in tuition bills.

Job Shadows and Internships are great ways to gain experience in a particular field that you may have interest in. Essentially, you are test driving a career. If you find a profession you feel passionate about, pursue a major in that area. Continue to shop around if you don’t see yourself in that profession a few years down the road. Learning your dislikes and weaknesses is just as important as learning your strengths and areas of interest. Don’t feel discouraged if you strike out a few times, statistics suggest that the average person changes careers, not jobs, anywhere from 3 to 7 times.

Experiencing different careers is not the only benefit job shadows and internships provide. They also allow students to build relationships with local professionals. Between 60%-80% of all jobs are landed through networking. Sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know, that can play the biggest role in the hiring process. Who knows…if your performance is impressive enough some internships may even lead to job offers.

My advice….don’t spend your summer break on the couch. Get out there and experience something new. You may discover a field you are truly passionate about and you will never work a day in your life.

Enough from me, let’s hear from you guys. In your experiences, what has helped you decide on a college major or career?

Learn from expereince,
Tom