What’s Your Passion? Choosing A Major or Minor

Are you talented in math and/or science?

A major is the overall broad subject in which a student wishes to study with the hope of doing something with this knowledge. A minor is more specific. A minor basically allows students to “cover two topics without double majoring,” said Matthew Battista in Career Planning.

For example, a marketing major would be well connected with a psychology, art, multi-media or journalism minor, depending on what exactly the student would enjoy doing on a daily basis.

A major is about 36 credits. A minor is about 18 credits. Some of the credits may overlap and transfer to the minor a student may choose. If a minor is added within the first two years of their college education, it is possible that the student could still finish their college education in a four-year degree program.

Career Planning has many ways to help students find their place and their career. First, career planning will provide a self-assessment. Self-assessments, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and Self-Directed Search (SDS), reveal the students’ preferences, strengths and weaknesses, and behavioral patterns. Another resource that career planning suggest to students is to create a Glass Door account and/or a LinkedIn account. Glass Door will show students an inside look into a company. LinkedIn have profiles of business individuals with their accomplishments and careers from past and present. LinkedIn is great for inspiration and guidance from successful people. Career Planning have checklists by year for students to follow in order to stay on track. These checklists are called Action Plans. Overall, ask yourself, what is important to you? What are your values?

“Learn about your major by networking,” said Matthew Battista in Career Planning.

So what’s impressive on the resume; — double majoring, a major and a minor, volunteer hours, work experience, etc.? National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) carries statistics as to what employers are looking for on a college graduate resume. Leadership positions have the most power when competing for a job opportunity. Major studied by potential employee is the second most important. A GPA of 3.0 or above is the third most impressive to employers. See more here. Is your resume impressive to your potential employers?

Regardless of your career path, complete your education with the Saint Leo University core values of integrity, community, personal development, respect, responsible stewardship, and excellence!

Career Planning’s advise while choosing a major

1. Take your time

2. Focus on your passion

3. Consider Career Goals

4. Make Connections

5. Breathe and Relax