If you’re like most students, choosing a major while applying to college is intimidating to say the least. After taking general high school classes, you’re suddenly expected to know what specifically you want to do for the rest of your life. Undoubtedly, choosing a major can be stressful and daunting, but there’s really no need to put more unneeded pressure on yourself (I’m sure your parents have already got that covered).
The good news for you is that, you’re here, at UVM—a University with incredible opportunities, resources, faculty and students. Instead of simply telling you not to worry or giving you some abstract advice on “pursuing your passion”, I am going to give you some concrete options and advice for choosing a major.
Job Shadowing: The UVM Job Shadowing program is an opportunity to shadow a UVM alumni in a career field of your interest for a day over winter break. This is a great opportunity to expose yourself to what “a day in the life” would actually be like.
Explore Catamount Job Link: This database houses hundreds of jobs in a large variety of career fields. Log in and select career fields you may be interested in, read the descriptions, and determine whether you would actually be excited about applying for the job in a few years! If you’re a specific major and none of those positions excite you, it might be time to explore more options.
Take a variety of courses: You never know which course or Professor is going to uncover your passion.
Set up a meeting with a Career Counselor or Advisor: The Career Center has numerous resources that will help you choose a career path and Advisor’s can help you understand what the educational path to that career looks like.
Go to the Major’s Fair: Faculty at this event are more than happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the field of study. This event is November 1st from 2-4pm in the Grand Maple Ballroom!
My last piece of advice is to keep an open mind. Just because you’re majoring in a science field doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck in a lab your entire life. You could work for a scientific journal or help contribute to public health policy. There are so many career options for every major so just relax, explore and enjoy uncovering your passion!
–Mehanna Borostyan, UVM Career and Experience Hub