College Minors: What Are They Good For?

“So, what's your minor?” 
This line doesn't crop up too often and in fact sounds—if possible—cheesier than being asked what your major is. You know that your major is important: it gives you the skills for your future career, and it's what employers look at. But what is the real value in having a minor? Can it hurt you if you don't have one? We found out.

What can declaring a minor do for you?
Depending on your college and chosen major, you may be required to choose a minor. If your school doesn’t explicitly call for you to have a minor (some programs may want you to just have a certain number of credits outside your major, or choose some other alternative), it may still be right for you. Luckily, if you choose wisely you can make your minor work for you!

Explore something new!
“My minor in school was photography, and I chose to do it simply because I always loved taking pictures and wanted to learn more,” said HC Style Editor Elyssa Goodman, Carnegie Mellon ‘10. “I discovered while I was taking classes that I really loved it!”

If you have a subject you'd LOVE to explore, college is the perfect time to take a few music or literature classes, learn about pop culture or fashion, or anything else! A minor can be a great way to do this. Rather than just having a few classes under your belt, you can officially “declare” and have your minor added onto your degree when you graduate. Gary Miller, from university career services at UNC - Chapel Hill, said he believes that enjoyment of the subject is the #1 reason to choose a specific minor.

“I think minors are great because they allow you to explore a subject that might otherwise just be an interest. Minors also give you additional options to explore in case you end up hating your major/career path and want to pursue a different passion after college,” said HC co-founder Annie Wang.