So, you’ve finished high school, and college is next. The problem, though, is that you must decide on something to study. A major. All your friends have this figured out. You wonder why you’re the only one who is undecided. The anxiety is paralyzing and instead of feeling inspired about your future, you’re feeling inadequate.
Perspective is important. Read on:
Being undecided about your college major is common
Your best friend might have wanted to be a vet since she was eight and is majoring in animal science. Another friend is majoring in accounting since his parents are both accountants. Everyone has a plan.
Yes, some people may have a major picked. But not everyone. At the University of Michigan-Dearborn, for example, 20% of incoming freshman and 10% of transfer students are undecided.*
Moreover, changing majors in college is also common
Your best friend may discover an animal science major is way too much science and switch to non-profit management in hopes of working for an animal-related charity. The other friend might realize the accounting students are just not his people. He changes to political science where he feels a more natural fit.
Yes, some people will start and finish in the same major, but not everyone. For instance, 72% of Michigan State University graduates changed their major at least once, and 50% changed it more than once.*
You will need to eventually choose a major. But believing you are the “only one” who is undecided or that there is something wrong with you will only deflate you and sabotage your innate curiosity and problem-solving abilities. There are strategies and resources for identifying a major, but an accurate perspective and a healthy mindset are critical.
If you or someone you know is struggling with academic or career decisions, anxiety, low self-esteem, or other stressors during the transition to college, talking to a counselor can help.
* https://umdearborn.edu/academics/undergraduate-studies/undecided-students-exploring-their-options
* https://undergrad.msu.edu/news/2023/12-undecided-underdecided-overdecided
