5 Benefits of Being an Undecided Major
It’s perfectly normal to be uncertain about your college major. In fact, it can be a good thing.
Many students don’t have a clear idea of what they want to do with their lives right away—and that’s okay. College is a time to explore your interests and discover your passions. Though declaring a major early does have some benefits, such as having a clear roadmap for your college career, there are many advantages to being undecided.
Here’s why choosing to be an undecided major is a great choice:
1. It provides an opportunity to explore your interests.
All students must take general core courses in their first year of college. This is an excellent opportunity to explore various subjects, experiment, and discover your interests while earning valuable credits. If you are undecided about your major, this gives you even more flexibility to choose the right path.
Many institutions, like St. John’s University, actively encourage undecided students to delve into their interests, offering them the flexibility to declare a major as late as the start of their junior year.
2. You avoid taking unnecessary classes.
Committing to a major too early can result in unnecessary courses that may not align with your academic path. In addition, changing your major later may jeopardize your ability to transfer credits, potentially forcing you to retake courses.
Opting for an undecided major can save time and effort by focusing on general education requirements and introductory courses. These courses will expose you to diverse subjects and potential areas of interest.
3. It elevates your potential for earning a higher grade point average (GPA).
You may notice fewer requirements when taking core classes, which may cover broader topics. This allows for more manageable coursework and a higher potential for securing a favorable GPA.
Declaring a major early in the semester can initially challenge your academic record and affect your GPA early on. However, if you are undecided about your major, there are still ways to boost your GPA. For example, you can focus on taking classes you are interested in and think you will do well in. You can also take advantage of academic resources on your campus, such as tutoring and writing centers.
4. It helps you develop a diverse skill set.
One of the most significant benefits of being an undecided major is that it allows you to develop a diverse skill set. By taking classes in various subjects, you learn new skills and knowledge that can be valuable in any career.
Even if you don’t pursue a career in the field you studied in college, the skills you learn will still be valuable. For example, if you take a class in accounting, you will learn how to manage your finances—which is a beneficial skill for everyone.
5. It reduces your pressure and stress.
Preparing for college can be stressful for many people, and having to declare a major during that time can make it even more stressful.
It may be tempting to declare a major to get it over with, but it is essential to remember that it is okay if it takes you some time to decide. Declaring a major is a big decision, and you must ensure you choose the right one.
Final thoughts
Being an undecided major is far from a bad choice; it’s a wise and beneficial decision for many students embarking on their college journey. Remember to explore your options, use your resources, and decide to proceed on your academic journey with the major in which you feel the most comfortable.
Need help with choosing a major? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered.
Check out our latest blog, “How to Choose a Major: 5 Steps for Success.”It offers practical guidance and valuable insights to assist you in making an informed decision.
