Major Exploration for Staff and Faculty : University Advising Center : Texas State University

What's the role of Faculty and Staff in Major Exploration?

As faculty and staff at Texas State University, you can influence how a student chooses their major, even if it is not from your academic field or interest.

Depending on your specific role, you can influence students in a variety of different ways - the engaging way you teach your courses, the diligence you put into your work, or the care you take in interacting with our students. The Major Exploration process is a journey for the student, and your part in their experience matters! Not only does your work here set an example for them to follow, your support can help guide them to a thoughtful, well-informed decision about their major.

When do I help?

50.6%

of TXST students change their major at least once.

Faculty and Departments. Students’ experience in class can significantly influence their choice of major. When thinking of all the factors that contribute to a student’s decision on their major (i.e. interests, skills, values, goals, perceptions, etc.), it can be easy to overlook the faculty’s role in developing students’ taste for certain academic disciplines. Positive experiences in class, especially in introductory courses, can shape a student's interest in a particular field, and negative experiences can do the opposite.

Staff Members. Students may take an interest in your work and inquire about your college experience or your choice of major. When appropriate, consider sharing what your undergraduate journey was like as well as where your career path has taken you. If they ask questions beyond the scope of your experience or your role, feel free to use our resources below to better guide them through this process.

How do I help?

Male and female hikers climbing up mountain cliff and one of them giving helping hand. People helping and, team work concept.

Assume that students are earnest when they ask about your educational choices and past experiences.
Help students expand their questions.
Refer students to people who know about the topics that interest them.
Dispel myths and misconceptions about both majors and careers.

Major Exploration Resources

Advising by Major

If a student wants to declare a specific major, you can refer them to the advising center for that major.

What Can I Do With...

What Can I Do With This Major is a helpful resource for students with career-related questions concerning their major.

Career Services

Career Services offers assistance with resumes, cover letters, interview preparation, career fairs, and more.

BLS.gov

The Bureau of Labor Statistics is a reputable resource for students interested in career planning.

Still not sure where to refer students?

As faculty and staff, you have valuable information and lived experiences to share with students who are exploring majors at TXST. There is a lot they can learn from you! If a student starts asking specific questions about course sequencing, graduation, and degree planning, this is the best time to direct them to an academic advisor.

The University Advising Center is a great place to refer students who are making important decisions regarding their major. We speak to students of any major and offer hour-long major exploration appointments to review multiple options. If a student has questions that you think an academic advisor is better equipped to answer, you can recommend that they schedule a major exploration appointment.