As a Cal Poly student, you were required to choose a major when you applied. After giving your major a try, you may be rethinking your initial decision. But how do you go about testing whether you have made the right decision for you? And if you decide you haven't, what can you do to make a better decision next time?

Is your major right for you?
Sometimes students give up on their majors too soon. During your first quarter, you are adjusting to college life, new roommates, the increased amount of studying, and many other things. It is like a roller coaster ride--lots of ups and downs, plenty of quick turns, numerous adrenaline rushes, and no time to reflect on what is happening.

It is important to sort out your thoughts about your major from these other adjustment issues. If you didn't do as well as you wanted to academically or if you thought your first major class was difficult, don't assume this major is not for you. Many other factors could be affecting your performance.

1. Even if I didn't do well in my major class(es), did I like the subject material? Was I interested in learning about it?
2. When I look through my curriculum, are there many classes I am excited about taking? Do the classes look interesting?
3. Are there career options with my major that I am particularly suited for? Cal Poly's Career Services has information on the career options that different majors offer in their Majors and Careers section.

If you answered "Yes" to these questions then you are probably in the right major but need help in other areas, such as study skills, time management, and avoiding procrastination. Talk with an advisor to find solutions.

If you answered "No" to these questions, you probably want to research other majors. Here are some suggestions:

1. Spend time researching various careers. Career Services has a very comprehensive web page to help you with career exploration.
2. Choose a major based on interest. If there is a subject or area that you have always liked or been good at, you probably have an aptitude in that area. You don't always have to choose a major based on a future career. Sometimes it makes sense to start with what you like to do and then, as you become involved in the subject, the career direction will become more obvious.
3. Read the descriptions of all the majors in the Cal Poly catalog.You will probably find several that appeal to you. Once you have your short list of possible majors, you can focus on finding out more about them.
4. Sometimes, students feel family pressure to major in subjects they really don't like. If this is the case, you might want to talk to someone in Counseling Services.
5. If you have been in the "wrong" major, it's possible that your GPA has suffered, which can make it more difficult to change majors. The Academic Skills Center has a wide variety of programs and support services available.
6. Once you have completed this research, you can explore the possibility of changing your major.

Academic Programs
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo, CA 93407
Phone: 805 756-2246
Email: acadprog@calpoly.edu