How to Choose a College Major: A Simple Guide for High School Students

Start With Your Interests and Strengths

When beginning the process of choosing a major, you should start by thinking about what interests you rather than focusing only on a specific career title.

Emma Greco, admissions counselor at Sacred Heart University, encourages students to reflect on the classes, activities, and subjects that spark their curiosity.

“Think about your personal interests. Start asking yourself questions,” Greco said. “Is there a class you enjoyed in high school? Is there a career you can picture yourself doing? Do I need a specific degree to pursue this career?”

Understanding your interests and strengths can help you explore academic programs that align with your goals. While some students may have a clear idea of what they want to study, others may discover their interests as they learn more about different programs.

Choosing a major also does not mean choosing one career path for the rest of your life.

“A common misconception about choosing a major is that students are determining the entire course of their career for the rest of their life based on their college major,” Greco said. “An undergraduate major may often lead to a career in that specific field, but there is so much room for exploration within your undergraduate studies.”

Students can begin exploring majors before committing to a college by attending admissions events, connecting with admissions counselors, and speaking directly with faculty and current students. These conversations provide a deeper understanding of academic programs and help students learn more about the opportunities available within each field.

Exploration is an Opportunity, Not a Setback

Many students feel pressure to know exactly what they want to study before they apply to college. However, entering college as an undecided or exploring student is more common than many students realize.

Greg Canzio, student success coordinator at Sacred Heart University, encourages students to view exploration as an opportunity rather than a limitation.

“I think the big thing is that there’s a stigma about coming in as exploring or undecided,” Canzio said. “I actually think it’s an exciting opportunity. I don’t think it’s a barrier. Usually for us it’s about getting students into our office and being able to refocus them, as this opens opportunities."

Being undecided allows students the time and space to explore different subjects, discover new interests, and connect with campus resources that can help guide their academic journey. This gives students the opportunity to make decisions based on their experiences.

“Everyone thinks a one-size-fits-all for majors and what they want to do with their careers, and a lot of times it isn’t that,” Canzio said. “There are a lot of majors where you can get to the same goals in your life.”

Students often worry that choosing the “wrong” major could limit their future opportunities. However, many careers can be reached through different academic pathways. Rather than focusing on finding one perfect major, students should consider the skills, experiences, and interests they want to develop throughout their college journey.

Find Support Throughout Your Journey

Choosing a major is not a decision students have to make alone. Academic advisers, faculty members, and peers can help students explore their options and feel confident in their decisions.

Jen McLaughlin, executive director of student advising & success at Sacred Heart University, encourages students to take advantage of the resources and people available to them throughout their college experience.

“We love working with exploring students because they’re open to lots of different possibilities,” McLaughlin said. “Other students are also a really good resource. We have our pre-fall leaders and a lot of students in and out of our office, and I hear them talking to students about their majors. They look to each other, and that can really help.”

Conversations with advisers and peers can help students reflect on their goals, learn more about their options, and connect with the resources available to support their academic journey.

"It really is a team effort, and that's what it should be, right? You’re part of a large community, and you should take advantage of the different people on campus who are there to support you," McLaughlin said.

For students who want additional guidance, Sacred Heart’s Discover You Career Exploration Program offers a step-by-step way to connect their interests and majors to future careers. Through the program, students explore career and experiential learning opportunities, learn how to connect with industry professionals, and create an action plan for their journey from campus to career. The program is open to students of all class years, including those who are still deciding on a major and those who want to explore where their current major can take them.

Navigating your academic future does not mean having every answer right away. With support from advisers, faculty, and peers, students can take the time to ask questions, explore their options, and make decisions that feel right for them.

Choosing a Major Is About Discovering Your Path

There is no single “perfect” major and no single perfect path. The right major is one that connects with your interests, challenges you to grow, and helps you develop the skills and experiences needed to reach your goals.

Every student’s academic journey looks different. Some students begin college with a clear direction, while others discover their interests through new experiences, conversations, and opportunities along the way.

Choosing a major is not always about following a predetermined path. It can be a journey of exploration, where you continue to grow academically and uncover new possibilities.

By staying curious, asking questions, and using the support available to you, you can navigate the process with confidence and find a path that feels meaningful to you.

Your major is just the beginning of your college journey.

Choosing a major is an important decision, but you don't have to make it alone. Explore Sacred Heart's academic programs, visit campus, and talk with an admissions counselor to learn more about your options. We're here to help you find a major that matches your interests, goals, and ambitions.