Switching your major is a big decision, but one that many college students make every year. Sometimes the switch in your declared major is drastic, while other times it just changes a little. Whether you’re a biology major and want to switch to an economics major, or you’re a business major who wants to switch to an education major, it is possible! But when should you switch your major? And when should you not? These are questions that every student asks themselves when changing majors is on their mind. Here’s a guide to making an informed decision and how to know if you should switch majors.
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When You Should Switch Your Major
1. You’re Not Interested in Pursuing a Career With Your Major
Your career options and ideal career path are important to consider when wanting to switch your current major. When you first came to college, you may have wanted to become a pharmacist, but after shadowing a pharmacist and working in a pharmacy you’ve changed your mind. It might be too stressful or you’re not interested in it enough to keep going. This would be an appropriate time to change your major. We’re not saying you should switch every time you’re no longer interested in something, but you have to remember that you’re going to school to pursue a career afterward. If you can’t think of yourself in that career long-term, it might not be the right one for you.
2. You’re Not Doing Well in Your Major Classes
A big indication of needing to switch your college major is when you’re not doing well in the classes that are centered around your major. If you’re a finance major but you’ve failed every accounting test you’ve taken and the average is passing, it might be time to talk to an advisor or your professor. We know some classes are more difficult than others, but if you’re constantly getting poor grades in multiple major courses, then you should change your major. It will help save your GPA, letting you keep your scholarships. You can ask to switch to something similar or change your major completely.
3. You Chose Your Major for Money
Money is a huge factor when choosing a career and we understand why. But if you’re picking your major based solely on the amount of money you are going to make when you graduate, it may not be the best idea. Yes, software engineers make a lot of money, but if you’re not interested in it at all and are not getting good grades, then you should change your major to something else. Your new major could open doors that your original major could not. There is a lot of potential to make money on other career paths besides the one you chose.
When You Shouldn’t Switch Your Major
1. Your Classes are Difficult
Not every class is going to be a breeze in college. Just because you’re taking a class that requires a lot more effort from you doesn’t mean you should switch your major. For every particular major, there are a few difficult classes that are known to notoriously stress you out for the entire semester. Stick it out and be resilient – it’ll be worth it!
2. You Have No Close Friends
Yes, you’re in college to get an education and further your academic career, but the social aspect is important too. If you aren’t making friends in your classes and are starting to feel like a lone wolf, it’s tempting to want to change your major. But who says changing your major will even make you any more friends? If friends are what you’re looking for, then join a club at your school! The environment is much more relaxed and you’ll be able to meet so many different people.
3. You Have a Mean Professor
Every school has those few professors that are known for their sternness, harsh grading, and strict rules. But they’re also there to give you an education. Just because you have a mean professor doesn’t mean you should change your major. If it’s really starting to take a toll on your grades, speak with them directly or the head of the department to see what options you have.
How to Know You Should Switch Majors
Changing your major is a big deal and one that you should not take lightly. Knowing when you should or shouldn’t switch your major is important. There are other things like your graduation date, college scholarships, and certain prerequisites to consider when you decide to leave your chosen major. Set up a meeting with your academic advisor to see your options and figure out if switching majors is the right decision for you. Whether you’re a sophomore, junior, or college senior, you should know all your options before making a decision.
Are you thinking of switching majors but not sure what to major in? Browse our majors database to see what might be a good fit for you.
