Contemplating changing your major is a thought that comes across most students’ mind in their college career.  Though most people think about it, whether it be that they are unhappy with their classes or they discover a new passion they have, not everyone commits to changing courses during school.

Why is that? Here are some viewpoints as to why you may or may not want to switch majors.

 

Cons of Changing Majors-

May Take Longer to Graduate

If you change majors after spending four or more semesters on your past major’s classes, you may need more time to finish your new classes. This transition can cause extra stress, but if you enjoy your new major more. An option can be to extend your studies for an additional year to meet your new major’s class requirements.

 

May Cost More Money

If you change your major so late that you need to spend more time in college, additional semesters and units can cost more than the price you initially anticipated for school. However, there are scholarships, loans, and work study programs that can help out with potential expenses.

 

Pros of Changing Majors-

A Degree is What Matters

Not all jobs are tied to a certain degree. If you are worried that changing your major may affect how future employers see you, just remember it’s not the only aspect they look at. Most employers just want to see that you have a Bachelor’s degree, that you have job experience, and that you are someone they could work with. What’s important is that employers see that you studied something you care about and completed a program.

 

You May Still Be Able to Finish on Time

If you change your major before your junior year, you are more likely to finish your new major’s requirements in four years. And if that’s the case, you don’t have anything to lose. Some people come into college undeclared and do not have to pick a major until junior year, so there is a grace period for students who decide to change theirs.

 

Could Be a Better Fit

If you are struggling to understand concepts in many of your classes,  there could be a  better major for you. When you can understand the key ideas from your classes, you’ll be able to enjoy them more.  Mark Twain once said, “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” This can apply to majors too. Of course your new classes will have hard work, but you could be happier while doing it!

 

Conclusion

Overall, if there’s a major that’s more enjoyable for you, you should consider going for it.

You get to pick what you learn about for four years, and you’re paying for it, so you might as well pick a major that brings you joy.

Author Bio

Eric M. Earle is the founder of Tutor Portland. While math used to be his worse subject, revisiting it as a college major taught him how to coach others to success!

 

 

 

 

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October 29, 2020