University of Wisconsin–Madison

News & Stories

Finding the Right Fit: How Ella Weinberger Turned a Major Pivot into Self-Discovery

Like everyone else, Ella can’t predict exactly where her future will lead. What she does know is that she’s found a direction that feels right for her.

5 ways to explore careers, build resumes this summer

Summer Term is about more than just checking off requirements; it’s a season of possibility and personal growth. As you settle into your summer routine, you may find yourself with a little time and mental space to plan for what comes after your degree. Whether you’re looking to polish your resume, develop transferable skills or investigate …

How Conversations and Campus Spaces Helped Mina Bhargava Choose Her Way

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 …

Elise Rouleau-Rivera on Why Every Experience Counts

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 …

Harper Sollish’s “Major” Changes

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 …

Teresa Nelson and the Magic Formula

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 …

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

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 …

Helping Students Solve “Major” Challenges

Claire Peters has been an advisor for more than 20 years. Here’s a glimpse into her world at the Career Exploration Center, where she’s helped “about a gazillion” students think about what majors and career paths to pursue.

Supporting Your Student’s Career Exploration

College is a time of exploration, and that includes major and career options. A good place for any undergraduate student to start is with the Career Exploration Center (CEC). CEC career advisors support students who are undecided about their career and/or academic goals. Majors don’t always determine a career and your student’s interests may shift over …

Gen Zers Don’t Have to Get a New Job to Find Meaning and Purpose at Work

Mattering at work is one of the five essential pillars for wellness in the workplace. Here are some tips to help you find and create meaningful work experiences, as well as advice on what to do if, despite your best efforts, you still feel unfulfilled. Read the article