As a high school senior preparing to apply to the University of Texas at Austin, you may find yourself grappling with the decision of selecting a first-choice major. Feeling uncertain about your academic future at this stage in your life is normal, and you're not alone in this experience. Many 17-year-olds are still deciding what they want to study in college. The good news is that there are strategies you can employ to navigate this situation and make an informed decision.

If you find yourself torn between majors in similar fields of study, exploring the full range of options is essential. UT Austin offers a diverse array of majors beyond the ones that immediately come to mind. For instance, if you're interested in pursuing a pre-health track, you might automatically consider a Biology major. However, UT Austin provides various pre-health options that you may need to know. To understand the possibilities comprehensively, utilize the Wayfinder tool, which lists different career fields and suggests the corresponding majors. This tool allows you to create a unique academic program tailored to your strengths and goals.

Once you've explored your options, look closer at your resume and evaluate which major aligns best with your experiences. Consider the courses you've excelled in, the extracurricular activities you've been involved in, and the skills you've acquired. Reflecting on these aspects can help you identify a major that complements your background and sets you up for success.

On the other hand, if your interests span different fields, an interdisciplinary major might be your ideal choice. UT Austin offers several interdisciplinary majors that provide education in interrelated areas of study. These hidden gem majors, such as Health and Society or Arts and Entertainment Technologies, allow you to explore diverse subjects and gain a broader perspective. They enable you to bridge the gaps between different fields of study and pursue a well-rounded education that aligns with your varied interests.

Alternatively, you can customize your degree to make it interdisciplinary. Many undergraduate students at UT Austin choose to add a minor or certificate in a related area to support their career goals. For example, if you're passionate about Dance but aspire to open your teaching studio someday, consider adding a certificate in Business Foundations to enhance your entrepreneurial skills. By combining different areas of study, you can create a unique degree that caters to your specific interests and long-term aspirations.

Note: These services and programs are in no way related to the University of Texas. The University does not endorse the program or College MatchPoint’s services.