Steps in Choosing a Major
Step 1: Understand My Need to Make a Choice
• Generate a list of reasons as to why you need to choose a major.
• Review Fredonia's policy with your academic advisor.
• Schedule an advising appointment to discuss all your options.
Step 2: Learn more about Myself
• Explore your interests, abilities, and values. Go to the RESOURCES page for a variety of exploration activities.
• Discuss these areas with your academic advisor and/or the Career Development Office.
• Take the personality and exploration "tests" the CDO has to offer (Examples: Myers-Briggs & FOCUS2)
Step 3: Generate Options/Alternatives
• Become aware of all of your options.
• Review Fredonia's Catalog for majors/minors of interest.
• Search the departmental webpage for majors you’re considering.
• Research courses required for majors of interest.
• Take an introductory course when possible (not every discipline has a course appropriate to this purpose).
• Review the major options offered, and develop a list of at least 3 possible majors then rank them in order of interest.
Step 4: Understand Careers/Majors
• Research academic requirements and course information for a variety of majors and careers.
• Consider conducting informational interviews with upper-class students, faculty members, and career professionals.
• Watch videos HERE of careers you might be interested in
• See what you can do with the majors you're interested in HERE
• Explore internship possibilities—contact the CDO and/or the major's department.
Step 5: Narrow Options
• Compare and contrast the information you have gathered.
• Meet with your academic advisor for guidance when narrowing your options.
Step 6: Develop Plan
• Plan your course outline for future semesters using the "What If" option in DegreeWorks.
• Develop your 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year goals.
• Discuss your goals with your academic advisor.
Step 7: Take Action
• Join a student organization in my academic area of study.
• Stop into the Registrar's Office in the Reed Library to obtain the forms necessary for declaring a major.
Step 8: Feel Confident about My Choice
• Feel confident about your choice and follow through on your action plan.
• Be proud of yourself for making a tough, yet important decision, but remember it's okay to change your mind!