Degree Planning

"What can I do with this major?" is a commonly asked question. Selecting a major should not become a frustrating chore. You should select a major based on your interests and talents; not because you heard that you could get a high paying job. Following that path usually does not lead to academic success. If your interests and skills are not appropriate for the major, you may find yourself, in academic jeopardy.

By consulting with your Undergraduate Major Advisor and the Career Center, you will gain valuable information about how the academic major can prepare you for your career. The two more well-known assessment tests, Strong Inventory and Meyer-Briggs, are excellent resources administered through the Career Center (Melville Library W-0550). Based on responses to the questions on these assessments, students gain valuable information about areas of interest to them.

Some occupations do require a career specific major. Those who are seeking employment or a career in operating a small business should seek a degree in business. Those seeking careers in scientific research must major in the appropriate science. Most employers are not as concerned about the undergraduate major as they are about an applicant's qualifications for the position being offered. It is imperative to work on developing and enhancing "human skills," these include: communication skills, written and verbal reasoning, analysis and cognitive skills. You should also explore internships, research opportunities (creative and scientific), and part-time jobs to gain valuable experience before you graduate. By seeking assistance it is possible to begin to assess your strengths and work towards your career goal.

Selecting the appropriate major is the first step in attaining your goal. The following information is from Your College Experience by John Gardner and A. Jerome Jewler:
TIME FOR ACTION: In selecting a major, ask yourself these questions:

• Am I interested in learning about the field?
• Do I have the necessary skills for success?
• Am I gaining skills, information, and perspectives that will be helpful in my career choices?

After choosing a major, begin to learn about other academic opportunities within the academic department. Talk with your Undergraduate Major Advisor about minors, internships, independent study, study abroad, exchange programs, and other options that might broaden your academic experience. Every academic major has provided an academic template to provide a good basic framework when to take major and general education courses. The On-line 2007-2009 Undergraduate Bulletin is an excellent resource for academic planning.