It’s almost the end of the school year, and we can all agree that everyone is anxiously trying to figure out what they want to pursue as a future major for the next couple of years and which college they should choose. Nevertheless, they shouldn't decide that whilst having little knowledge and experience. Lucky for you, this guide is here to help you.

Choosing Your Major

It is quite understandable when students panic about settling down with one major for the rest of their lives. I mean one day you’re taking your usual high school classes and then the next you’re expected to have your next chapter in life figured out. It indeed is overwhelming, but rest assured that no one knows you better than your own self so take a deep breath and have faith in what you can offer!

First Tactic:

When figuring out what you want to choose as a major, things can often get a bit confusing. First of all, you have to figure out which classes in high school you catch yourself looking forward to the most. For example, you can often find yourself going to your history class a tad bit earlier than usual, and that can say a lot because let’s face it, showing up to class enthusiastically early is a rare case!

Second Tactic:

If you feel like no classes excite you, then don’t worry, that still doesn’t mean that you don’t have specific interests! Nevertheless, showing up to your classes does not always necessarily mean that you’re interested, people often prefer showing up to any occasion on time.
Another way you can use to figure out your academic interests is the way you react to specific classes. There must be a certain subject that catches your attention or at least has you stop whatever you’re doing and think for a second. In addition, look for subjects that you actually look forward to studying for plus assignments you always try to submit on time. I would like to emphasize on the assignment part because the last few years have been definitely tough on students all around the world due to the pandemic and other global issues. 

Third Tactic:

If you have trouble figuring out your personal interests or seem to have found more than one leaving you more confused, then do not worry! There are more ways to settle down with your major. Hypothetically speaking, let’s say that you currently have a list of subjects you could possibly see yourself studying more in depth. Consequently, you are left lost because you have to choose one of them. You can see what subject you score highest in even if you haven’t acquired any interest in that subject whatsoever. Therefore, one’s performance has a huge impact on taking a liking to a certain field. 

Side note: making lists and ranking majors from most to least interesting is very effective. Pros and cons diagrams are a cherry on top.

Fourth Tactic:

Some students prefer being rational and strategic when making decisions. They tend to choose their field based on research and facts which tend to benefit them in the long run. You can take your interests aside and aspire to choose a major you think you would be good at whilst being sure that it can easily secure you a decent career. In other words, you can look for careers that are highly demanded in the work sector whether nationally or internationally, and then search for majors that are necessary to pursue such jobs. Many students have used this criteria and are now thriving. Using this tactic is valid because we can all agree that deep down everyone aspires to be successful and financially stable. And who knows? Maybe going with that tactic can actually make you realize that the major you chose for the sake of success is actually the one most fit for you!

Searching For The Right College

Searching for colleges to apply for is definitely stressful and sometimes overwhelming, and that is very valid! I mean you’re obliged to pick a place and/or community you shall call your home for the next couple of years therefore you should choose wisely.
First of all, your college hunting should start as early as possible.  You need to discuss with your legal guardians whether you will be studying in the country or outside. After figuring out what your whereabouts will be, college research starts. You set a budget for how much you can afford as college tuition, there are also scholarships, however, setting a budget as a backup plan is a very safe choice in case one doesn’t get into a program. 

Choosing your college should depend on the major and faculty you want to get in because some colleges stand out for certain programs they offer. Researching and making lists of colleges that catch your attention is very effective. 

If you would like to get a visual representation of what it’s like being a full-time student in a certain college you want to look further into, you can always get in contact with the college and request a campus tour where you can check out the campus, faculties, dormitories, and classes. Such tours can be really helpful in trying to imagine yourself as part of the community. And at some point, you will immediately feel like this is where you belong.

I would also like to repeat and emphasize deadlines, the earlier you are to figure out your university path, the better. Some colleges give extra care and attention to those who apply early. Nevertheless, it’s better to apply early instead of doing it at the last minute and adding more stress in addition to school stress.  

Usually, college admission applications tend to be simple. So you do not have to worry about the process, it is really smooth. All you need to have ready is your school transcript, your SAT or ACT scores - or whatever English Proficiency test your chosen college requests - and your ID card. Admission applications usually open between November and January, and the deadline is usually between March and June. 

Overall, it is definitely overwhelming making such huge decisions and reaching a point where you have to figure out how you want to build your ideal life. However, it is exciting because on the bright side, you get to create the kind of life YOU want, you can take matters into your own hands and be the kind of person you want to be, and there is nothing holding you back because you are your own person!

Best of luck, fellow reader!
Also, check out our other article about SAT and ACT for assistance!
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