Choosing a Major | Student Guide | BYU-Idaho

# Choosing a Major

Selecting the right college major based on your strengths, interests, values, and goals can help shape your college experience and prepare you for the future.

## What is a Major?

****A major is a subject area that students specialize in while working toward a degree.****Choosing a major doesn't mean it's what you will do for the rest of your life. It's more about deciding on a field of study that interests you and providing your commitment, attention, and mastery to a subject. Some majors lead to specific careers while others offer you many other options. About one-third to one-half of the courses you take in college are related to your major.

## How to Know if Your Major is Right for You

How do you know if a major is the right one for you? If you're not sure, you're not alone. About 75 percent of undergraduates change their majors at least once. 
 
Choosing a major begins by asking the right questions:

What courses do I excel in?

Do you have a knack for math, a passion for drama, a thing for history, or an interest in science? Notice what classes you do well in and are excited about.

What extracurricular activities do I enjoy?

Do you love to sing, write, be in nature, or create artwork? What you love to do in your spare time can help you in selecting a major.

Am I uniquely talented in a particular area?

Everyone has something they are good at. What are your talents? Determining your natural gifts can guide you as you explore options.

What do I enjoy learning about?

What sparks your interest every day? Is there something that you find interesting and love learning more about?

## Ways to Explore Majors

Your major should match your interests, talents, and skills. If you like what you're learning about, you'll work harder, you'll earn better grades, and find more rewarding opportunities.

Explore what BYU-Idaho Offers

With over 90 options to choose from, BYU-Idaho has a major that's just right for you. 
 
Explore BYU-Idaho Majors

Learn About Yourself

Take an assessment to discover which BYU-Idaho majors best match with your strengths. 
 
Self-discovery

Consider Careers

Narrow your search by exploring career options. Learn more about careers that interest you. 
 
How to Find a Career

## Tips to Explore Majors

There are many opportunities to explore majors and interests in college. Here are some suggestions.

Job Shadowing

Learn about the day-to-day activities of a particular career that interests you. Talk to professionals to find out how to be successful in a career. Ask them about their choice of major.

Prepare for Employment

Enhance your skills through internships, part-time jobs, volunteering, and involvement in academic societies and activities.

Change Your Major

You might find that you need to change your major to meet your goals. That's great! Learn how to change your major.

Try on a Major

Take a few elective courses to see if a major or subject is a good fit for you. Introductory classes are a great way to learn about majors and subjects that interest you.

## Myths About Choosing a Major

Myth #1

There must be a direct link between a major and a job or career. 
 
****FACT**** 
Some careers, like nursing and engineering, require specific majors, but many majors allow you to work in a variety of fields.

Myth #2

There is only one right major or career for you. 
 
****Fact**** 
Most people end up in careers that are not directly related to their major, so start by choosing a major that seems interesting to you. Some students take elective classes or introductory classes to learn more about which subjects interest them the most.

Myth #3

There is a quick and easy way to choose a major. 
 
****Fact**** 
Choosing a major or career takes time, energy, and research. Don't feel discouraged if it takes some time to find a major you love.

Myth #4

Once I decide on a major, I don't have to think about my future goals until I graduate. 
 
****Fact**** 
Choosing a major is a great first step but planning to reach your career goals will open doors to your future.

> Even if you're not sure about your interests, the best way to find a major is to make your best guess and try it on. If you reflect regularly about whether your major is a good fit for you, testing your interests and relative abilities in it, you'll soon get a feeling about whether it's right or wrong.

President Henry J. Eyring

## Get Help

Meet with an advisor who can assist with your specific interests and needs.

Meet With An Advisor

Meet with an advisor by scheduling an appointment through I-Plan. 
 
Book Appointment Now

Call Advising Office

Call the Advising Office with questions or schedule an appointment at (208) 496-1411. 
 
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