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Choosing a Major

Teresa Nelson and the Magic Formula

Posted on October 1, 2025

In their mission to support students who are figuring out their future, career advisors at the Career Exploration Center (CEC) often share what they call the “magic formula” for discovering career goals: academics + real-world …

Posted in Choosing a Major, Exploring Careers

How Kate VanderLoop Found Her Path — And a Major She’d Never Heard Of

Posted on July 22, 2025

When Kate VanderLoop began her first year as a pre-business student last fall, she, like many students, had questions about her future. She knew she wanted a dynamic, people-centered career, but wasn’t sure what that …

Posted in Choosing a Major, Exploring CareersTagged badgers explore

There is No Such Thing as a “Useless” Major

Posted on December 7, 2022

Think that some majors are more valuable than others? Writer Lindsey Spencer argues (and we agree!) that all majors are meaningful in their own way. Read on to learn why. Read the article

Posted in Choosing a Major, For Families

Tips for Picking a College Major

Posted on September 12, 2022

David Perry gives his opinion on choosing a major based on enjoying the subject rather than solely focusing on the money those who graduate with a major are projected to make. He argues that the …

Posted in Choosing a Major

Honest career advice for college students who think they need a master plan for life

Posted on March 7, 2022

When will you figure it all out? Never, according to this author, although that’s a positive thing! Your life and career will unfold in ways you never predicted. Stay open to chance opportunities, gather experiences …

Posted in Choosing a Major, Exploring Careers

‘Can we predict the future?’: How COVID-19 Redefined Our Notion of ‘Practical’ Degrees

Posted on January 25, 2022

Feeling pressured to choose a “practical” major over one you’re truly interested in? Know that what’s considered practical changes over time, and all degrees hold value in an unpredictable world.

Posted in Choosing a Major, The Future of Careers

Career Services and Supporting Your Students’ Success

Posted on July 13, 2021

This summer we know there is a lot on your students’ minds, and whether they are a sophomore or a senior, career planning is likely one of them. At UW–Madison there are many resources available …

Posted in Choosing a Major, Exploring Careers, For Families

When Should my College Student Choose a Major?

Posted on December 30, 2020

When your student should choose a major depends on several factors, including how soon they are ready, what kind of major they’re considering, and when their college requires them to declare. One important thing to …

Posted in Choosing a Major, For Families

Here’s How the Pandemic is Reshaping Career Planning for College Students

Posted on September 1, 2020

COVID-19 has changed our world in many ways. What hasn’t changed? The importance of choosing a major that aligns with your interests and skills.

Posted in Choosing a Major, The Future of Careers

Four Steps to Choosing a College Major

Posted on July 28, 2020

Deciding on a major can be stressful. Here are some tips to help navigate the process.

Posted in Choosing a Major
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