After graduating high school, choosing a college major can be a splash of reality and your first formal introduction into the "real world." Although I run only an http://www.kasplacement.com/nyc-recruiters.php executive level sales search firm and marketing employment agency in New York, younger students always send in their resumes and call for career advice.
Most colleges have many majors from which to choose. Some will seem interesting while others will turn you off; that's just part of human nature. There are a few factors to keep in mind when choosing your college major and these should help take the weight off a little bit. I have included some advice you should consider before beginning college and choosing a major.
First, remember that you don't have to choose a major right away. I would recommend that you do not. Only a very small percentage of people know what they want to do for their careers when they are 18 years old. If you are like the rest of us, you are somewhat clueless and probably intimidated. Therefore, I recommend you take a broad and diversified course load and see what you like. Though, don't get trapped in to going into a major because you like a particular professor. If you can take two or three classes with that individual, then it may be a different story. However, think in the long-term and I'm sure that regardless of your major, that professor will be there to guide you whichever way.
Regardless of what you major in, always have a minor in some form of business or economics. You are about to pay over $100,000 in college tuition and fees; make sure that if your first and passionate major does not work out, you can be competitive in the job market. Many students "hate" business, however they really don't have much of an idea of what "business" is. Business is a very broad subject and there are almost more types of businesses out there than you and I can count. Yes, you are going to have to take the dreaded accounting courses, but college can't be all fun and games and accounting is important. You can take my word for it; these courses are not all that hard. Also, the biggest misconception about accounting is that it takes math. In actuality, accounting is more mathematical theory.
Simply stated, how many of today's Fortune 500 CEOs majored in anthropology? Major in what you love, but have the back-up--"risk management" is the term people would use in business. I own a recruiting firm and I know how HR people think. They want to see business. Though, I am in the absolute minority as I am the only person at my firm with a business major.
Also, take as many writing-oriented courses as you can. Writing skills are so important. This has become even more evident because people no longer like to speak on the phone; everything is done via email. If you have superior writing skills, then you will stand out. In my opinion, writing is a more important skill than any other you can learn in college. Most people have not realized it yet, however online marketing is all about writing. Obtain this skill and you are viable on the job market.
What if you have a chance for a scholarship? Take it. Right now, the economy is at a "great depression" level and your parents could use the break. Maybe the school is not your first choice, subsequently if you were to look at the specifics of a college loan, the bank could potentially go after your parent's house. Your parents have spent a lot of money to get you where you are today; you should give a little back. If you feel that the particular school is too close to home, make an agreement with your parents as to when they can or cannot visit.
Finally, firmly know that you don't know and that is okay. If you were to change majors, do you think you would be the only person in the world to do that? Yes, try not to do it too much as it will begin to cost a good amount of money, but college should be fun. Enjoy yourself.
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