Dear Gracelyn
I’m looking into changing my major. The classes I’m taking now are not really interesting to me, and I don’t really like the subject matter covered in them. I’m just not really sure if changing my major is a good idea at this point in my education. It took me a long time to decide on my major now and I’m not sure what to do if I don’t like the major I end up switching to! I’m in a rough spot.
-Indecisive
Dear Indecisive,
You do sound like you’re in a rough spot! It’s a good thing that you have already spoken to your advisor about this matter, but it’s even better that you have come to me asking for advice. I have never had to change my major before, but I do know several people who have. My advice is to never ever change your major, even if you detest it. Yes, you may be stuck in classes that you don’t like and don’t understand, but changing your major is simply not worth it. Remember, most people don’t even get a job in their field of study anyway! Make sure that you do not speak with professors outside of your field. They will try to convince you to major in their fields of study and will make changing majors seem tempting. This is detrimental to your studies and focus as a student.
If you simply must change your major, be sure to think it over critically and carefully. The only thing that should be a deciding factor in changing your major is your projected income. Making money is not everything, I know, but it’s really important that you set yourself up for future success. If the major you are switching to does not have a higher average income than the major you are studying now, don’t even think about making the switch. Just because you enjoy the subject matter of a particular major and excel at it does not mean that the major is a good choice.
The fact that deciding on your current major consumed so much of your time is an indication that you should not even pursue changing majors. At this point, it is just a waste of time! Furthermore, it’s a large waste of energy that could be better spent working on the homework for your current major. I hope that you will follow my advice and choose to be content rather than confused!
–Gracelyn
Struggling to find the perfect microwave-safe double-chocolate brownie recipe? Can’t keep up with Aaron Crabtree’s ever-changing hairstyle? Roommate sings too loudly in the shower? Gracelyn has all the answers to your most pressing life questions. Ask them at [email protected]
