CHOOSING A MAJOR
Deciding Students Should Know…
Students change their major an average of 3 times before graduation. Choosing a major doesn't limit you to one career. Most majors give you the education that can enable you to enter a variety of careers. Here are the most effective steps in choosing a major/career:
Step 1: Begin with Self Assessment
What are you...- Interests
- Skills
- Values
- Goals
- Personality Traits / Preferences
- Career Interests
- Preferred Work Environment
Step 2: Gather Career Information
- What Can I Do With A Major In
- Occupational Outlook Handbook
- O*NET
- UNCW Undergraduate Catalog and Academics website
- Consider Major course requirements
Step 3: Discuss Your Options
- Talk to professionals in your field, UNCW Alumni, faculty, advisors, and current students to get the inside scoop.
- UNCW Student Organizations
- What Can I Do With A Major In
- Handshake (job/internship/employer database)
- CareerShift (job/contacts/company search engine)
- Meet with a Career Counselor
Step 4: Test Drive Your Careers
- Job Shadowing
- Volunteering
- Internships
- Related Part-Time Job
- Study Abroad
- Undergraduate Research
- Join a Student Club/Organization
- Take Exploratory Courses
