One of the first things you will do, even before you get to college, is decide on your major or field of study. Each major has a specific set of classes that you must complete, which will provide you with the specialized skills and knowledge that you will need to be successful after college and in your career field. Every class you take in college will be part of your major plan, which means that selecting your major now can help you choose the AP classes that will best fit with your major. This ensures that you will not lose credit for the grades you earn. A clear plan for your major also means that you can start out your college experience automatically connected to a group of others with whom you share common interests and will be studying and working with over the next four years. Choosing your major and focusing your career plans are also important because your community needs you to be able to articulate what your gifts are and to confidently use them to do excellent work that you are passionate about. When you use your talent for the good of others, everyone benefits. I am going to give you some key steps to pick a major and career that you will enjoy and that will take advantage of your specific strengths. Our goal is to find a major that will prepare you to impact the world for good in God’s name!

When considering a major, you should understand what things are important to you, and which unique gifts and perspectives have been crafted into your life. I imagine that we are working to put together a puzzle with all sorts of different pieces. When we get it assembled, it reveals a complete and beautiful picture of you!

Once you have narrowed the list of possible careers and majors, there are a few other things you can do to try and ensure that you pick the best fit. First, make a list of all the things you already know about each job you are considering and then think about what you still need to know in order to make a well-informed decision about that job. Be sure you have information about what kind and how much education is needed, what the salary range is and the job outlook or employment trend for every job you are considering. This research will help you make knowledgeable decisions about your future. The last step of this process is one of the most fun! I always recommend that students “try-on” the jobs they are interested in by volunteering, getting internships or job-shadowing someone who is doing a job they are evaluating. Think about ways to get some first hand experience in the field you are considering. This can give you confirmation and confidence that you are working toward a job that you will enjoy. Don’t be discouraged! This choice can sometimes feel overwhelming because it is so important. But remember that God is faithful and He has plans for you to do good work in this world. Our job is to help you discover, as Frederick Buechner said, “the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.”