Undeclared students should have no worries

For those students joining Cal State Long Beach, it is not necessary to choose a major right away. It can be extremely beneficial to wait and take general education classes first, keeping a major in mind. This will allow a chance to feel around the different subjects offered before committing to just one.

Many times, students will find more than one subject that suits their interests and have a difficult time choosing between them. There is no real time limit for this choice, though if you are one of the lucky few who know what they want to do, it is easier to get ahead. The decision should be made by the beginning of your third year because by that time you have fulfilled most of your required classes and have room for concentrating on a major. Changing majors after that time will cause you to stay in school longer.

Waiting to choose a major saves you the waste of taking classes in a major you later opt out of completing. Besides, there is no guarantee you will work in the subject you choose. Many college graduates have found themselves in completely different areas upon applying for jobs. What is important is that you have the tenacity to stick to a goal: that of completing your degree.

It is beneficial to keep in contact with a counselor. Sometimes taking a personality test can help you commit to a few subjects you enjoy. Counselors can help with that decision and know the requirements for different departments. Talking with the department advisors will help you decide if the classes in that subject are right for you. It is always a good idea to get to know your advisor, as they will be meeting with you along the path to graduation and making sure you pick the classes that will get you there.

According to Northern Kentucky University, one in five students change their major between admission and the first day of classes, and three in four students are unsure about their major.

If you haven't yet chosen a major, you are not alone. Keep ideas in mind as you take your classes, and enjoy your time here.

The important thing is to learn about the different subjects before choosing a major, and to choose something so that you enjoy learning. After all, that is what we are here for!