Myth: You have to know what you want to do for the rest of your life
Reality: You do not have to pick a career or know "what you want to do for the rest of your life" before choosing a major. Below are some other interesting facts:
- 20% to 50% of students entering college are undecided about academic or career goals.
- About 75% of students will change their major at least once, some several times, before graduation.
- According to research, males and females are equally undecided.
Myth: Certain majors offer greater advantages
Reality: Success in the job market often has more to do with motivation than with a particular major and future employment should not be the only criteria when selecting a major. Generally we recommend that students major in what they like and in which they have the skills to succeed. If you like the area of study you have chosen, you’ll be motivated to work harder, your grades will be higher, and you will have greater opportunities.
Myth: There has to be a direct link between major and job/career
Reality: Many careers do not require a specific major. You can work in business fields such as management, marketing, or human resources with liberal arts degrees in English, history, communication, or philosophy, etc. In many cases the degree is the start of the career. Most employers look for employees with certain skills:
- Communication — writing, speaking and listening
- Technology proficiencies
- Organizational, management, teamwork and leadership abilities
- Adaptability (changing with the times and a willingness to keep learning)
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving.