With the month of March imminent, many other things are on the student’s minds on the UA campus. Things like what bathing suit to wear for Spring Break, the record of our dominating men’s basketball team. Unfortunately, a breeze of reality is about to blow in, because the registration for fall semester classes is approaching much faster then any of us would like (end of March). This strikes an unnerving chord due to the rapid pace of college years flying by, but it is even more stressful for those of us who remain in the undecided realm. The endless list of possible classes is daunting, especially for those who are generally indecisive about what they want to do, let alone what classes they need to take. It is something that I personally try to put off until the last minute as an undeclared freshman. But have no fear, with a semester under my belt I have acquired some knowledge and confidence regarding my current undecided state, and I’m happy to share what I have discovered.
1. Remember you are not the only one who is undecided. There is a sea of students who are undeclared, and there is an even bigger ocean of students who have declared their major and changed it, or who want to change it. Caeli Barker, an undecided freshman said, “I thought I knew what I wanted to do, but after my first semester I was totally back to square one.” So calm down, deep breathe. You’re not alone.
2. Get out there. Join clubs that interest you. It’s a great way to meet people, and to expand your horizons. This method worked for Emilie Williamson, physiology sophomore, who said “joining a club and taking a variety of classes really helped me finalize my decision.” It is likely that you will meet someone who has been in your shoes, or who has the one career-path you haven’t heard of. Sometimes a random meeting can spark a little interest and provide you with that needed push to try something new.
3. If you think you know what you want, then go for it! It may not be fun to change your major, but it’s pretty harmless and can be done easily, especially in your first year. So, if you have an inclination of what you want to do, then try it. What do you have to lose? (Wait, don’t answer that).
4. Talk to your counselor. They know what they are doing and can give some helpful tips on how to select the right classes for your interests. My counselor pointed me in the direction of an online “major exploration” class that has been useful to me so far.
5. Think. It sounds fairly simple, but contemplate what you want out of your future career, and what major can get you there. Undecided freshman Madeline Keenan said, “all I really had to do was consider my options and what I truly wanted in the long run, and the decision was easy.” Ask yourself some necessary questions as to what job/major fits your personality and lifestyle. With a few weeks, maybe days, of introspection you might be able to see clearly what has been in front of you this whole time.
It is easy to be intimidated by fellow classmates who have their four-year plan already, with the list of classes they need to take, and summer internships lined up. Don’t fret, you probably have a good idea of the field you are interested in. In the remaining weeks until registration try at least one of the tips listed above. They may provide you with the confidence to declare a major perfect for you.