Choosing a major in college can be almost as challenging as choosing a school to attend. And with media outlets constantly reporting on the national student debt crisis, it can be even more anxiety-inducing to determine whether you’ll be able to pay for your college.
If you’re currently trying to decide whether or not a specific degree program is a good fit for you, consider the following three tips as you weigh your decision.
Consider your career goals
Ultimately, it doesn’t matter where you go to school. However, your degree can have a major impact on how easily you can find a job in the career field you pursue after graduation.
If you want to be a teacher, you’ll need to take specific licensing exams, and classes in early childhood education can prepare you for those. Similarly, if you want to work as an auto mechanic, looking at automotive and diesel repair programs is a great way to set you up for success.
People interested in law school know that they will need to attend a graduate program, but it still makes sense to choose an undergraduate major that dovetails into your studies in law, such as political science. While it can be hard to determine what sort of field you’re interested in pursuing after you graduate, speaking with a career advisor or counselor can be worthwhile.
Determine what kind of program fits your life
Once you’ve determined what kind of program fits your interests, it’s time to consider what approach to schooling makes the most sense for your current circumstances. If you’re fresh out of high school, it may make sense to attend a four-year university.
However, depending on the field you’re interested in, it may also make sense to knock out your general education requirements at a more cost-effective community college. These credits will transfer and can save you money while you consider what you’d like to pursue in school.
Online classes can also be a great way to find an education that fits your schedule. If you’re currently working part-time or full time, the flexibility afforded to you in an online degree program can help you continue to fund your education without taking out massive amounts of student loans.
If you’re unsure whether or not an online program is something you can handle, many universities offer an online learning self-assessment that can assist you in determining whether or not you have the technological literacy to complete an online course.
Talk to others in the program
One final way to determine whether or not a degree program at a certain school fits your goals is to speak with students who are currently enrolled in a specific program. Oftentimes, arranging a conversation with current students is as simple as reaching out to the advisor of a program and asking for a few students whose brains you can pick about their field of study.
Depending on whether or not you’re local, you may even be able to meet them for coffee, where you can really get a feel for how the program fits your needs. It also never hurts to see about reaching out to recent graduates about their experiences after attending a school. This can give you an idea of how the program has benefited them in their career journey post-graduation.
Choosing a program of study in college is certainly a weighty decision, but it doesn’t have to stress you out. And keep in mind that it’s never too late to switch your major or career. With some planning and research, you can make a much more informed decision and set yourself up for success in school and after graduation.
