By Kristen Moon Founder & CEO of Moon Prep
Also Available on our BS/MD Admissions Consulting White Coat Club Podcast
Choosing a college major is one of the most important academic decisions you’ll make — but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you already have a dream career in mind or you’re still figuring things out, on our latest episode of the White Coat Club, we break down will help you make a thoughtful and informed choice.
Step 1: Start With What You Like
Begin by looking at the classes you’ve enjoyed (and the ones you haven’t). Your interests can offer helpful clues about what areas of study may suit you best. If you love your biology class but dread history lectures, that contrast can point you in a clearer direction.
Ask yourself:
- What subjects make you lose track of time?
- Which assignments feel like a chore?
- Are there topics you research or read about on your own?
Step 2: Think Top-Down — Start With the Career
Instead of picking a major and hoping it leads to a career you’ll love, flip the process: start by imagining your ideal job and work backwards.
Ask:
- What are your long-term career goals?
- What majors typically lead to those careers?
- Are there multiple paths to the same job?
Talking to professors, alumni, and professionals in your areas of interest can give you real-world insight into how different majors translate to careers.
Step 3: Explore the Real World
Before committing, get your hands dirty! You can gain clarity and confidence about your choice through real-life experiences:
- Internships and shadowing help you see what daily life in a field looks like.
- Student organizations allow you to test the waters and build connections.
- Summer programs and workshops let you explore specific fields in short-term, low-pressure settings.
- Career assessments can help align your personality and skills with potential majors.
- Volunteering or working with nonprofits in relevant fields builds practical experience and purpose.
Step 4: Know That It’s Okay to Start Undecided
You don’t need all the answers on Day 1. In fact, many students start college undecided. At UC Irvine, for example, about 20.6% of incoming freshmen enroll as “Undeclared.”
But here’s the caveat: switching into competitive majors like biology, computer science, or business can be difficult after enrollment. If you’re even slightly interested in a competitive program, it’s often better to apply directly.
Step 5: Understand How Majors Affect Admissions
Most colleges don’t weigh your intended major heavily in the admissions process, especially if you’re applying to a broader college (like the College of Arts and Sciences).
However:
- Don’t choose a random major to “increase your chances” — your application (essays, activities, coursework) needs to back it up.
- Be cautious about applying undecided to highly selective programs where internal transfers are limited or competitive.
Step 6: Avoid These Common Mistakes
When choosing a major, don’t fall into these traps:
- Picking a major just to please others (parents, peers, etc.).
- Not thinking ahead to what careers it may lead to.
- Choosing the “standard” major for your dream job (e.g., pre-med students defaulting to biology) without considering your interests.
- Ignoring the possibility of multiple paths to the same career.
Step 7: Yes, You Can Change Your Major — But Know the Rules
Changing majors is common and totally okay — but some universities make it easier than others. For example, at UT Austin, switching majors after acceptance can be limited, especially for high-demand fields.
Generally:
- Humanities and social sciences are easier to switch into.
- Business, engineering, and computer science may require additional applications, prerequisites, or minimum GPAs.
Final Thoughts
Your major doesn’t define your entire future — but it does shape the beginning of it. Be honest with yourself, explore broadly, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Whether you choose right away or take time to explore, what matters most is finding a path that fits you.
Kristen Moon is the Founder & CEO of Moon Prep
