Undecided About Your Major? You’re Not Alone

Luther’s Career Center hosts workshops, classroom presentations, and individualized coaching sessions using the CliftonStrengths Assessment.

Before starting college, you might have a clear idea of what you want to major in—or you might have no clue. Maybe you are undecided because you are interested in so many subjects, or maybe you are waiting to discover what sparks your curiosity. 

Choosing a college major can feel overwhelming. But, it’s completely normal not to have it figured out. Many students begin college unsure of their path. Even after classes begin, it’s common to be exploring your options.

“I finished high school without having an idea of what I wanted to study in college,” said Melany Ruiz Torres ’22. “My first piece of advice is: don’t stress, you will figure it out.” 

In the meantime, here are four simple things you can do to tackle the stress that comes with choosing a major.

Check when your college/university requires you to declare a major

Most colleges require students to officially declare a major by their sophomore year. In other words, there’s plenty of time to explore your options. Whether you’re completely unsure of what you want to study or torn between multiple interests, this period is a valuable opportunity to dive into different subjects, discover what excites you, and gain clarity about your passions before making a decision.

Assess your interests and meet with your advisor

Many colleges provide assessment tools, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and the Strong Interest Inventory, to help you better understand your interests and preferences. Luther offers the CliftonStrengths Assessment. These can be a great starting point when exploring potential majors. 

After completing an assessment, you can meet with your academic advisor to review the results and discuss which courses align best with your strengths and goals.

Learn what you love outside of the classroom

Learning from other students’ experiences and connecting with faculty can be a valuable way to explore potential majors. Most colleges offer a wide range of student organizations and clubs focused on different interests and fields. By attending meetings and participating in various events, you can gain insight into what excites you. 

Additionally, many schools provide diverse work-study opportunities, which can be a great way to explore different career paths while gaining hands-on experience.

Don’t fixate on a major

It’s perfectly normal to realize that a subject you were once interested in isn’t the right fit after all. In fact, changing majors is more common than you might think. College is a time of growth and new experiences, and it’s natural for your interests to shift as you’re exposed to new ideas and opportunities. You may even discover a passion for something you had never considered before. 

Remember, learning doesn’t only happen in the classroom—there are countless experiences outside of it that can help guide your academic and career path. You’re in college to explore, so give yourself the space and time to figure out what truly excites you.

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