Can you see yourself still loving your major 10 years from now? Do you think you will be able to use it as a means of jumpstarting your career? Do you love going to class and participating in discussions that deal directly with your field? If you’re not sure if you’re on the right path, maybe it’s time you reassess your future.

Think about your hobbies…

What do you enjoy doing in your down time? Really think about what you find to be both fun and interesting and try finding a major that accommodates that hobby. For example, if you love to doodle or paint, art history may be a great option. Love to watch CNN? Politics or sociology might be the best match for you.

Check out other departments…

Try taking a class from a department other than your current major. If you fear that you might not do well because the material is totally foreign, start within the same discipline and then work outward. For example, if you are a political science major, stay within the social sciences and try taking an anthropology course. Many schools offer fun interdepartmental courses that combine the best of both worlds; they allow you to use what you are familiar with in order to gain experience with something new.

Interview your friends…

If you’re thinking about switching majors don’t be afraid to ask your friends about what they love (or hate!) about theirs. Dig deep and find out which courses have been their favorites, plus the pros and cons of their particular program. Though their experiences will most likely be different than yours, the requirements and course load may be similar.

Check our career services…

Many career centers at undergraduate schools have specialists who are trained to help students choose the best major based on their planned career. Even if you’re not sure which career is in your future, drop in and ask a counselor for help.

Meet with an advisor from a department you are interested in…

Advisors can most likely fill you in on all the necessary requirements, the types of research the department conducts (if applicable), and the special events, honor societies, and publications that are available to them. Getting the facts may help you better understand what each major entails before jumping in feet first.

– By Stephanie Vacchio, Union College