By: Cortlyn Rusch
An estimated 15% of students come to UWSP unsure of what they want to study. It is more common than you think. If you are entering UWSP weary of your major, we have some valuable resources that can help you discover your passion!
First of all, don’t be afraid to start your college career even if you are unsure of what you want to study. You can begin taking classes at UWSP that will count towards your general education requirements. UWSP has a general education program to ensure that students receive a well-rounded education. Also, it gives you a chance to take classes that interest you and could possibly lead you on your path to picking a major.
Another helpful way to discover your passion is to get involved on campus. UWSP’s CASE (Campus Activities and Student Engagement) is your place to learn about what is happening on campus. Here you can find information about student organizations, campus events, and ways to get involved in the community. Attending these events or student organization meetings are a great way to engage in your interests and meet new people.
Attending a career fair is a great way to find out what jobs are available in a field that you are interested in. Career fairs are held frequently at UWSP and are full of friendly and helpful business professionals. Attending the career fair is a good opportunity to ask employers questions and learn more about careers that interest you. This year’s All-Major Career and Internship Fair is on Thursday, September 18 in the Skyward Fieldhouse.
The most helpful resource available to you when you are trying to decide a major is your academic advisor! They are the most knowledgeable people on campus about majors, minors, program requirements, etc. You are able to set up an appointment with your advisor or you can visit them during their office hours.
Your advisor is a part of the Academic and Career Advising Center (ACAC) on campus which offers a handful of resources that can help you decide your major. If you want a student perspective on declaring a major, you can set up a peer advising session with a UWSP student!
If you just read all of this and are completely overwhelmed, don’t worry. Sometimes, picking a major is something that takes time. If you have no idea where to start, try taking UWSP’s Discover Your Purpose quiz!
These are just a few helpful tips to guide you towards declaring a major. Never forget, you are not the only one going through this process and there are many people and resources available to help you.
