Major Exploration for Family and Friends : University Advising Center : Texas State University

Welcome to Major Exploration, Family and Friends!

Major Exploration is a time of introspection and self-discovery, and family and friends can be influential in the process. Students need your support as they explore, and it is important to respect your student’s interests, goals, and ultimately, their decision.

Fact or Fiction

Myths abound about major selection; let's bust a couple of them.

Image of a road with the word "Career" on it.

Myth #1

This is the most common myth we encounter.

Myth #2

Many believe this myth is very scary.

Fact

While it’s true that some majors are harder to transition into than others, most students will find that switching majors has little impact on when they’ll graduate.

Picture of a shopping cart with packages sitting above the word, "Trends."

Myth #3

This myth is the source of a lot of frustration.

Fact

The job market changes frequently and rapidly. The best way to ensure you'll be successful in this type of environment is to choose a major that you find interesting.

Supporting Your Student

There are many ways to be supportive and helpful as you assist in the major exploration process.

Reassure your student that if they take their time and use their resources, they can make a satisfying and informed decision. We will provide them with a variety of resources and research strategies they can share with you.

Listen to what your student has to say and encourage an open discussion. It can be easier for a student to share the positive aspects, like their goals and dreams, rather than the negative aspects of major exploration. Were they unhappy with their current major? Did they struggle with any particular classes? By sharing both the positives and negatives, you can help your student find a more satisfying and rewarding major.

We fully believe that success is defined on an individual basis. For students to be as successful as possible, they must stay true to their interests and define for themselves what they want out of their undergraduate experience. Choosing a major is a very personal choice. You should not decide for the student even if they seem stuck or indecisive, nor should you restrict them to a certain direction that you think is best. Allowing your student to take ownership of their decision provides them an opportunity to grow in their self confidence and decision-making abilities.

Helpful Resources

BLS.gov

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is one of the most reliable sources of information for U.S. career statistics.

Transferable Skills

The Marketable Skills database identifies some of the transferable skills learned through each major.

Syllabi and CVs

Learn more about specific courses and faculty by exploring syllabi and CVs on the HB 2504 site.

The Right Advising Center

Student who know what major they want can use this site to contact the right advising center to declare.

Major Exploration Appointments

The University Advising Center is a great place to refer students who are exploring majors. We speak to students of any major and offer hour-long major exploration appointments to review multiple options. If a student has questions about changing majors or making a decision on their major, recommend they schedule a major exploration appointment. If they want you to attend, we'd love to have you join as well!