A student's major choice can impact much of what happens in the following four years and possibly for the rest of their lives. That's why it's so important to choose thoughtfully: students need to think about it from all angles to be sure that their major will serve them well both during college and after they graduate. To get started, here are three ways you can help your student explore their interests and ultimately decide on a college major. 

DISCUSS YOUR STUDENTS CURRENT ACTIVITIES, INTERESTS, AND APTITUDES

A student's college major is a huge part of their lives, both during college and beyond. And that's why it's crucial that students base their major pick on who they are: mentally, intellectually, and emotionally. 

Students should think about their interests. Do they enjoy tinkering and fixing things? Maybe they should consider Engineering. Do they love learning about the people who came before them and how they shaped the world as it is today? History or Sociology might be good choices. 

But it's not that simple: beyond interest and involvement, students should consider their aptitude for a subject. It's great for a student to challenge themselves with their coursework, but if they're going to devote four years—and a future career—to a subject, they should feel confident in their ability to understand it, enjoy it, and dig deep into it. 

CONNECT WITH YOUR PROFESSIONAL NETWORK FOR INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS

A college major isn't just about the classes a student will take. What they study in school will likely influence what they spend their career doing, so it's important for students to explore experiences outside of school to give them a sense of what it would be like to have a career in a given field. Hands-on learning opportunities can help prospective students understand which majors might be a good match for them. 

Informational Interviews are a terrific way for students to begin understanding how their college major can impact career options and provide professional perspectives on careers in specific fields. In addition to vetting your professional network, encourage your student to reach out to trusted adults for opportunities (coaches, counselors, teachers, etc.). Not only will your student begin the valuable step of networking, but by talking to adults about professional opportunities and exposure, the confidence gained will be invaluable. See our guide on Informational Interviews here. 

Visiting Academic Departments during College Tours

Visiting college campuses is a vital component of the admissions journey. To make the most of your campus visit, see our guide to Campus Tours. In addition to stopping by the admissions office, it’s important to consider the campus opportunities and facilities within your students' intended field of study. If your student plans to study English, be sure to swing by the University Writing Center; if Chemistry is your student’s calling, ask to tour labs and research facilities.

if time and safety protocols permit, ask the department registrar if you can sit in on a course or seminar. It’s common for students to worry that their presence might be “annoying” to faculty, but in fact, they’re often more than welcome and encouraged to participate!  Academic Departments are also a good resource to confirm degree requirements, which often vary from school to school.   

It’s easy to brush off the college major as something a student only has to consider during college. But your student’s major choice will affect the before and after, too: their high school years, the college application journey, and their post-college career. That’s why it’s important to give the major exploration and decision process the attention it deserves. For more information on college majors, see the MatchPoint Guide to Choosing Your Major.