Arriving on campus without a declared major is a reality for many first‑year students, and yet it often comes with doubt and pressure to catch up to peers who are, or seem to be, decided on their major. UW-Madison Freshman Mina Bhargava was no exception. However, through conversations, involvement, and intentional exploration, she learned that clarity …
When Elise Rouleau-Rivera entered college undecided about her major, it was a terrifying thing. Trying to decide between two majors that she wasn’t even sure she was interested in felt like a battle. It wasn’t until she met with a career advisor at the Career Exploration Center (CEC) that she discovered a path that felt …
When Harper Sollish realized her first two majors weren’t the right fit, she felt lost in the major maze. With the help of a career advisor, she explored her strengths in writing and creativity and discovered a new direction in journalism. The Career Exploration Center (CEC) helped her map out a plan to apply to …
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 experiences = the foundation for informed career decisions. University of Wisconsin–Madison senior Teresa Nelson knows this formula well. Once on …
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 could look like in practice. That’s when she turned to the Career Exploration Center (CEC). With the help of an …
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
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 more you enjoy doing something, the harder you will try at it, which leads to being more successful in your …
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 and connections, and think beyond “my major will determine my life path.” Read the USA Today article
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.
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 to students, no matter where they are in the career planning process, which can help them explore, build connections, develop …