Some students come to college with clear direction; they know what they want to study, what jobs and careers they would like to enter after college, or to which four-year colleges and universities they want to transfer after graduation. Others enter college as undecided, understanding that their experience with different academic subjects will help them make an academic choice. Still others start a program of study but are uncertain how that program can help them find a job later. Each of these situations is normal.

Even before you have figured out your own purpose for college, you might be required to select a program of study also referred to as a major, an area of study like psychology, engineering, education, or nursing. In every major, students take a variety of courses; some are directly related to the area of study, while others are general education and elective courses. For example, all students should take college-level math and English courses as part of general education, but they can choose electives depending on their interests.

Many students change majors as they better understand their strengths and weaknesses, learn more about career options, and become interested in different areas of study. Some two-year colleges allow you to be undecided for a while or to select liberal arts as your major until you make a decision about what to study. It’s okay if you don’t know immediately which major or career to choose. An academic adviser or counselor can provide you with proper information and guidance to make a decision about your major.

Choosing a major early allows you to better plan the courses you need to take and get connected with instructors and students within your program. Later, you might change the major you chose during your first year. Try a major you think you’ll like, and see what develops. Your major may or may not match the title of your future job.

Even if you are ready to select a major, it’s a good idea to keep an open mind and consider your options. You might learn that the career you always dreamed of isn’t what you thought it would be at all. Working part-time or participating in co-curricular activities such as joining a club can help you make decisions and learn more about yourself in the process. Students who connect what they learn inside and outside the classroom have a better, more satisfying college experience than those who focus only on classwork.

If you are planning to transfer to a four-year college or university after graduating from your two-year college, it is beneficial for you to choose your major early, explore the available academic programs, and select your courses based on the requirements of the college or university of your choice. Completing courses that you can transfer will help you save both time and money. Most two-year colleges have a transfer center or, at the very least, a transfer counselor whose job is to provide academic advisement and prepare students for a successful transfer to a four-year college or university.

Your major and career ultimately have to fit your interests and your overall life goals. How you connect your classes with your extracurricular activities and work experience prepares you for a successful transition to your career.