Monday, September 15, 2014

The Right Steps When Choosing A Major

By Jody Leach


The decision you make about college now will determine your happiness and satisfaction in future. Choosing a major is a decision you cannot postpone forever. However, it does not have to scare you. The process is simplified by following a simple formula.

Personal interest- friends and family members are likely to push you into areas where you appear to fit. It is your passion that should lead you instead. The suggestion that you can become a lawyer yet your interest is in fine art should not change your mind. It is upon you to identify the areas where you perform best and pursue them with vigor.

Earning potential- while passions and interest are important, your earning potential plays a major role in career satisfaction. The choice of subjects you make should give you good returns in future beyond offering opportunities to experience life to the fullest. This calls for evaluation of the performance and lifestyles of your role models in your chosen field.

The school offering the major- beyond the course you wish to pursue, it should be offered in your university of choice. The geographical location should support your ideal learning environment. Uncommon courses are sometimes expensive and attract a lot of competition. This knowledge helps you to search for alternatives.

Cost- the expenses involved include relocation and sustenance. Different cities and towns provide diverse living conditions and quality of life that should be of interest. The possibility of studying while working should be thought-out. Some courses require extensive reading and engagement that might not allow you to work. This means that you have to use much of your savings.

Natural talent verses interest- your interest in a science oriented course might be compromised by failure to understand the core subjects. It is important to match the natural ability with academic performance. Career guidance and participation in a placement program makes such decisions easier to make.

Who pays- different majors attract scholarship opportunities and financial aid in varying scales. Instead of missing out on a course for lack of financial means, you may want to consider a course that is funded wholly or partially. The aid given for different courses depends on the state or institution. You should exhaust all options in your area of interest before looking for an alternative.

Work load- this is especially important if you have to work alongside attending classes. The workload may be eased by your natural abilities and the amount of practical work required. It is necessary to consult career guidance and counseling professional to identify the package that suits your situation.

Role models- role models in any career point at how your life will be if you follow a similar path. Evaluate their lifestyle and income level to gauge whether it will be satisfactory for you. All diplomas and degrees are not competitive in the same manner when you hit the job market. Other fields are becoming obsolete while others are getting more competitive.

Career satisfaction begins when you choose the right course. It requires long term thinking to avoid disappointments and waste of time. A rewarding career should give you the lifestyle you have always desired.




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