Choosing your major before university is a significant decision, one that can feel overwhelming. But here’s the twist—this process doesn’t have to be daunting if approached creatively. Rather than focusing solely on traditional advice like job prospects or peer influence, think differently. Let’s explore some innovative ways to discover the major that truly suits you
1. Visualize Your Future Self
Imagine it’s 10 years after graduation. Close your eyes and picture where you are—what are you doing? Are you in a lab making groundbreaking discoveries? Or perhaps managing a team in a tech startup? Maybe you're in a studio creating art. This simple act of visualization can offer deep insights into what drives you, pulling you toward a major that aligns with your ideal future self
2. Combine Your Passions
Who says you have to stick to one thing? What if you could combine your interests? If you love technology but also have a passion for business, majors like Information Systems or Digital Marketing could be perfect. Blend your talents—art and psychology, science and writing, or economics and environmental studies. Thinking of majors in pairs rather than silos opens up exciting possibilities
3. Use the “Three Things Test
Identify three things that energize you. Not just what you like, but what makes you feel alive. These could be anything—writing stories, solving puzzles, helping others. Once you have those three things, look for majors that allow you to do them every day. Your excitement should be a compass guiding your choices
4. Take Personality and Aptitude Tests (But Creatively !
Instead of relying solely on standard career assessments, spice it up. Use tools like StrengthsFinder or 16 Personalities but take your results and reinterpret them creatively. Let’s say the test suggests "communication" as a strength—how could that play out in fields you never thought of, like diplomacy or tech consulting ?
5. Experiment Before Deciding
University isn’t the first place to explore your major—it’s where you refine it. If you’re interested in multiple fields, test them out now! Take online courses, volunteer, or join a summer internship. If you can’t decide between biology and journalism, shadow a biologist and try writing for a school magazine. Experience helps clarify what excites you most
6. Look Beyond Money
Yes, financial security is important. But choosing a major purely based on its earning potential might lead to dissatisfaction. Ask yourself, “Would I do this even if I didn’t get paid for it?” Your answer can reveal whether you’re choosing the major for the right reasons. Passion-driven decisions often lead to success and financial rewards down the road
7. Identify Problems You Want to Solve
Instead of thinking about majors in isolation, think about problems that you’re passionate about solving. Climate change? Poverty? Mental health? Choose a major that empowers you to tackle those issues. If you're inspired by solving environmental issues, environmental engineering or sustainable business could be your calling
8. Talk to People with Jobs You Admire
Sometimes the best advice comes from people already living the life you're imagining. Reach out to professionals on LinkedIn or through family contacts. How did they choose their major? What do they like about their career? You’ll get real-world insights and perhaps even learn about majors you hadn’t considered
9. Follow Curiosity, Not Expectations
Family and societal expectations can cloud your judgment. Instead, follow your curiosity. If there’s a subject or field that pulls you in, don’t be afraid to chase it, even if it’s unconventional. Unconventional paths often lead to the most fulfilling careers
10. Trust Your Gut
This one’s simple. Sometimes, despite all the advice, your gut tells you something different. And that’s okay. Why? Because your instincts can see further than logic sometimes. If you’re naturally drawn to a major, chances are there’s something valuable there for you—trust yourself
Final Thoughts : Creativity Over Convention
Choosing a major is personal, and there's no single path to the right decision. The creative approaches above will help you think outside the box and find a major that fits your personality, passions, and future goals. After all, your future is yours to create. What will you make of it ?
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