A Few Myths and Realities about Major Selection

Myth: You have to know what you want to do for the rest of your life

Reality

• About 75% of students will change their major area of study at least once; about 50% of those students will change majors two or more times.
• According to research, both women and men are equally undecided.
• The average adult doesn’t settle on a career until sometime in their 30’s.
• Interests, abilities and aspirations may be different at ages 20, 30, 40 and beyond.
• A majority of adults born since 1950 have had -/+ 8 career changes.

Myth: Selecting my major is the same as choosing my career.

Reality

• Most studies show that less than 50% of graduating college seniors report accepting a job directly related to their major.
• Whatever area of study you select, you will develop competencies and skills that are transferable to the job market.

Myth: Certain majors offer greater advantages

Reality

• Although many students believe that some majors offer more advantages in the job market than others, career success often has more to do with motivation and well-rounded experiences than specific majors. 
• It is true that degree programs lend themselves to particular careers (nursing, accounting, etc.), but the majority of majors have a wide variety of opportunities.

Myth: There has to be a direct link between a major and a career

Reality

• Many careers do not require a specific major.
• You can work in business fields such as management, marketing and human resources with liberal arts degrees such as English, history or philosophy. Most journalists, for example, do not have journalism degrees.

Myth: Students should study the job market and select a major based on the careers that show rapid growth.

Reality:

• The job market today may be very different when the degree is finished.
• Choose a major that genuinely interests you.
• If you follow your passion, success will follow you.

Myth: In order to prepare adequately for graduate and professional schools, a certain major must be pursued.

Reality:

• Most professional schools do not require a specific major for entrance.
• In recent years, liberal arts majors have had a greater acceptance into medical schools than biology majors.