D.J. Parson, an Appalachian State University sophomore, stated, When I first arrived, I didn t have any idea how to get started choosing a major, not to mention what I was going to do with that major when I finished school. D.J. is not alone in his dilemma. As a career counselor, I encounter numerous students who are confused about how to go about making effective career decisions. Many are paralyzed by the mere thought they have to make decisions themselves for the first time. Their parents or someone else has always performed this role and now it s their turn.
Students are generally all over the map when it comes to decision-making.
Some students want to do it all, while others aren t sure they want to do anything. They haven t found their passion. One thing to realize is that figuring out who you are and what you want takes time and a lot of effort on your part. Through examining what you ve enjoyed doing, what things come easily or naturally to you, what gives you motivation, what peaks your interests etc. Bit by bit you will see a pattern developing.