The Maverick Muse

There comes a time for many college students when they find themselves dissatisfied with their primary course of study. Though they were very sure about it upon initially selecting their college option and major, later they determined it might not be the best path.

Before losing all enthusiasm for studies, people in this situation should consider changing their major. Having previously declared a college major, this is not a decision that should be made lightly, and therefore merits thoughtful evaluation of core issues.

* Is it really your major that is the problem?

The college experience can be stressful for even the best students. Turmoil with relationships and friends, in addition to a new level of academic expectations, can cause many problems, especially for freshman.

Before considering a change of your major, examine every aspect of your new life carefully and be sure you are making a switch is the right thing. Consult an advisor at your college; they are often trained and willing to talk about more than only academics.

Consider whether there are just a few classes giving you trouble, not the entire major. Lastly, allow a bit more time to go by, just to make sure your decision is firm.

* Select a new major carefully.

When changing your major, try to avoid whatever it was that made you determined to drop the last one. Unless you are absolutely certain, don’t pick a new major that is completely different from your last one or from the areas of study that you know well.

Weigh the pros and cons of each major, and remember that college is supposed to prepare you for a career. Can you see yourself doing this for decades or even the rest of your life?

* Verify you can meet the requirements and finish on time.

Several majors have varying requirements and prerequisites that you may not be able to satisfy. Sometimes you must fill an application, much like your original college application, to enter a new major.

Your grades will almost definitely be a factor here, so don’t let your current grades slip just because you are thinking about changing since they still impact your GPA.

Also, shifting your major may extend the time you need to complete your college career. If a new major has several required classes that don’t include most of those you have already completed, then you may need to take a couple extra semesters to catch up. If you need to do so, make sure you can afford the extra college time and expense, or even investigate an online college option.

College is a significant time of learning and change. Few students truly come in knowing exactly what they want, and it is your right as a student to change your mind. As long as you take careful consideration and make good decisions, your change of majors will likely turn out to be for the better.

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