From Passion to Profession: How to Choose a College Major That's Right for You

Choosing a college major can feel like the most significant decision ever... but take a deep breath! It’s absolutely okay if you’re initially unsure about what to study. In fact, most students start college undecided or end up changing their major. What’s important is finding a path that excites you and sets you up for a rewarding, prosperous future. When you do what you love, you tend to do better at it. Research shows that people who enjoy their jobs are more optimistic and motivated and make fewer mistakes on the job.

We’re here to help you reflect on your passions, explore options, and confidently turn what you love into your college major and future career.

Know Yourself: Reflect on Your Passions and Interests

Before diving into catalogs of majors, start with yourself. The best way to find a fulfilling major is to pick one that aligns with your interests, values, and talents. Spend some time in self-reflection and ask yourself questions like:

• What topics or activities am I passionate about? (What could you spend hours doing or learning just for fun?)
• What are my strengths at school? (Which classes or projects come easiest, or make you feel proud?)
• What problems or causes do I care about? (Helping people, inventing things, the environment, art and creativity, business and money, etc.?)

Jot down your answers and look for patterns. For example, a graphic design or fine arts major might fit if you love art and design. If you’re always curious about how the human body works, maybe biology or health sciences are for you. Don’t worry if your passions initially feel " impractical ", every interest can lead to opportunity. The goal is to identify what genuinely excites you. College (and life) will be much more rewarding if you’re studying something that energizes you, rather than something you dislike. Steve Jobs said, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

Your passions don’t have to point to one obvious major right away. Many interests overlap multiple fields. For instance, a love of writing could lead to majors in journalism, communications, literature, or even marketing. That’s okay! Start by making a “short list” of a few subjects that spark your enthusiasm. This will give you a starting point for the next step: exploring how those passions translate into majors and careers.

Research Careers and Majors that Match Your Interests

Once you've identified your passions, it’s time to do some homework (the fun kind!) on majors and careers. Think of this as being a detective; you’re gathering clues about what each major involves and possible career paths. Start by learning about the majors related to your interests. Read the descriptions of those majors on college websites or guidebooks to see what courses you’d take and skills you’d learn.

Next, connect those majors to real-world careers. An excellent tool for this is the U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), which lets you search for jobs and see what majors or training you need. For example, look up environmental scientists in the OOH. It will tell you that most have degrees in environmental science, biology, or chemistry, and this field is growing (so jobs should be available). According to the BLS, careers in tech and data (like software developers or information security analysts) are booming, and the computer and math fields are projected to grow 15% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average. On the other hand, fields like education or the arts might grow more slowly, so you’ll want to be aware of that as you plan. Don’t let a slower growth rate automatically scare you off from a passion, but do arm yourself with knowledge of the job outlook.

Here are some innovative ways to research majors and careers:

• Use online career exploration tools: Websites like the College Board’s BigFuture offer career quizzes and a directory of 1,000+ careers and majors. You can take a career interest quiz and get matched with careers based on what you like, bigfuture.collegeboard.org. This can reveal options you hadn’t considered and show how your interests connect to actual jobs.
• Read about the “day in the life”: Once a career catches your eye, look up a typical day. YouTube, blogs, or even TikTok might have insiders sharing what it’s like to be a nurse, an architect, or a game designer. If it sounds thrilling, that’s a good sign! If it sounds boring or unpleasant, that’s good to know too.
• Check job outlook and salary data: The BLS OOH will list the job growth projection for each career (e.g., “Employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow 45% by 2032, much faster than average”). It also lists median salaries. Similarly, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) publishes data on starting salaries for new grads. For example, NACE data shows business majors average around $68,000 starting, while healthcare-related majors average about $63,600 (source: naceweb.org). Use these facts to get a realistic picture of each field’s prospects.

Most importantly, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Talk to people who are studying or working in fields you find interesting. If you love video games, chat with a computer science student or a game developer. If you think you might like psychology, ask your school counselor or a psychology teacher about career paths (they might mention jobs like mental health counselor, one of the fastest-growing careers at 17% projected growth, psychology.org). People generally enjoy talking about their work with curious students! The more info you gather, the clearer it will become which majors align with your interests and have opportunities behind them.

Balance Your Dream with Reality (Passion vs. Practicality)

You’ve probably heard debates about “passion vs. paycheck” when choosing a career. Here’s a secret: you don’t necessarily have to choose one or the other; the sweet spot is finding a balance. This means considering practical factors like job demand and salary while pursuing an area you care about. Let’s break down how to weigh these considerations:

1. Job Market Demand: It’s wise to check if a field is growing, stable, or shrinking. For example, the tech and engineering fields are in high demand (many jobs are being added). The healthcare sector is also booming, the fastest-growing industry, thanks partly to aging baby boomers in the workforce. On the other hand, some fields are dropping, such as administrative and clerical roles. This doesn’t mean you can’t succeed in those areas, but you may need to be more proactive and possibly willing to relocate or adapt.

2. Earning Potential: Let’s be real, income matters. A comfortable salary can impact your lifestyle and help you pay off student loans. For example, engineering or computer science majors tend to have higher starting salaries (often in the $75k–$90k range), whereas early childhood education might start around $40k. Money isn’t everything, but it’s important to factor it in. If you dream of traveling or having a certain living standard, you might lean toward majors that support that lifestyle. However, don’t pick a major solely for the money. Why? Because if you hate the coursework or career, you likely won’t perform well or stay long enough to earn those big bucks.

3. Backup Plans and Flexibility: Even within a practical major, it’s important to remain open-minded and versatile. Maybe you adore music but know it’s tough to make it as a performer. A balanced plan could be majoring in audio engineering or music education, which offers steadier job options while still centering music—or double-majoring/minoring: one for love, one for livelihood. Many students choose a minor or a double major to keep a passion in their life alongside a more job-oriented field.

4. Now and Later:  Don’t forget that you very likely learn more in your early career and earn more later.

In summary, follow your dreams and bring practical info on the journey. If your heart is set on a field that isn’t known for job security, that’s not a deal-breaker. You should network harder, gain extra skills, or have a Plan B in your back pocket. And remember, success comes easier when you’re passionate about your work. People who love what they do are often willing to put in the effort to get really good at what they do (which usually leads to success and eventually, higher earnings! ).  So, aim for that intersection of interest and opportunity. It’s there if you look for it.

Test-Drive Your Interests (Extracurriculars, Camps, and Envision Programs)

You wouldn’t buy a car without a test drive; similarly, you shouldn’t “buy into” a major without trying it out! High school is the perfect time to test-drive your potential interests through extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, and specialty programs.  Hands-on experience will teach you more about what you do or don’t enjoy than hours of online research ever could.

Here are some great ways to explore majors before you commit:

• Join a club or team related to the field. Interested in engineering? Join the robotics club or science Olympiad. Thinking of journalism or communications? Write for the school newspaper or create a blog. Love debate and law? Join the debate team or Model UN. These activities let you live a slice offer a glimpse into the real-world experience in that field. If you look forward to club meetings, that’s a good sign! If you find it boring, that’s also insightful.
• Volunteer or shadow someone at work. If you think you might want to be a doctor, see if you can volunteer at a hospital or clinic. Interested in teaching? Volunteer at a summer camp or tutor younger kids. Considering business? Help at a local small business or entrepreneurial initiative (even running a simple bake sale teaches business basics!). Volunteering and job shadowing let you see the day-to-day reality of a job while also building valuable skills. Plus, you’ll meet mentors who can guide you.
• Take on personal projects. There’s nothing to stop you from dabbling in an interest on your own time. If you like coding, try making a small website or game (there are tons of free online tutorials). Passionate about the environment? Start a recycling initiative or a community garden. Into art? Build a portfolio of your work or start an Instagram account for your art. By doing, you’ll quickly learn if it’s something you love enough to study in-depth.
• Enroll in summer programs or camps. There are many fantastic pre-college programs that give high schoolers the chance to experience elements of different careers. For example, Envision offers programs like NYLF Medicine & Health Care, Business Innovation, Engineering, Law & CSI, and more, where you spend a week or more immersed in that world. You can step into the shoes of a doctor, literally suturing a wound on a medical simulator, in NYLF Medicine. Or test your startup skills in the NYLF Business Innovation camp, competing in a realistic entrepreneurship challenge. These programs (and others like them) are incredible for affirming “Yes, I could see myself doing this!” or “Hmm, maybe this isn’t what I expected.” They also look great on college applications as they show initiative and career focus.

 Nothing beats firsthand experience when it comes to exploring a field. You might discover that the idea of being an attorney excites you, but the actual tasks (tons of reading and writing) don’t, or vice versa. It’s much better to learn that before you declare a major. Even negative discoveries are valuable; ruling  out careers gets you closer to what’s right for you. And when you find something you love during a “test drive,” you’ll feel much more confident choosing it as your major.

Finally, these experiences can fuel your motivation. School feels more meaningful when you know why you’re studying, e.g., “I need to pay attention in chemistry because it’ll help me in nursing.” You’ll also meet like-minded friends and mentors along the way. So, jump in and explore!  You might find your future major through a hobby you enjoy or a summer camp that inspires you.

Talk to Mentors, Family, and Advisors, But Remember It’s Your Decision

Choosing a major isn’t something you have to (or should) do all by yourself. Discussing your thoughts with trusted adults and mentors is helpful; they can offer guidance, perspective, and support. However, there’s a balance: listen to advice, but ultimately make the right choice for you, not just to please someone else. Let’s unpack how to involve others positively:

Parents and Family: Your parents (or guardians) know you well and care about your future, but they might have their own ideas about what you “should” study. If family is pushing you toward (or away from) a specific major, try to understand their viewpoint. Often, parents worry about job security, they might say “How will you get a job with a degree in ____?” This can be frustrating if your passion lies in that area. A good approach is to show them that you’ve done your homework. For instance, if you want to major in art and they’re dubious, share some data or examples of viable careers in art (like graphic design, animation, UX design, etc.) and maybe point out that the arts and creative industries aren’t as dire as they think. You could say, “I know you’re worried, but I’ve researched this: Entry level graphic designers can earn around $50k, and the field is expected to keep growing. "

Teachers and Counselors: These folks can be gold mines of advice. Your school counselor can discuss college majors and might have assessments or tools to find help you find your strengths. They also  know about scholarships or local internships in your field of interest. Teachers in subjects you enjoy can tell you about what studying that subject in college is like and potential career paths. For example, your biology teacher might inform you about different branches of biology (biotech, zoology, etc.) or connect you with former students who have pursued a biology major. If your school has a career day or college fair, take advantage of that to ask questions.

Professionals/Mentors: If you have the opportunity, talk to people working in fields you’re considering. This could be through a formal mentorship program, a family friend, a neighbor, or even contacting someone on LinkedIn (with your parents’ permission). For instance, if you’re considering majoring in computer science, speak with a software engineer about their day and what they studied. If law interests you, ask a lawyer about law school and undergrad majors. A short conversation can yield insights like “I wish I had studied more writing” or “My psychology classes help me in marketing”, tips that guide your choices. A mentor might also help open  doors for you in the future.

In short, choosing a major is important, but it’s not a life sentence.  Think of it as picking a direction to begin your journey—you can always shift course, explore side paths, or even change destinations along the way. This takes a lot of pressure off, right? So don’t panic if you haven’t figured out exactly what you want to do in high school. Very few people do. Focus on what interests you now, do your best in school, and stay open to learning. As you grow, you’ll refine your path. And remember, education is never wasted. Every class and experience builds  a more knowledgeable, skilled person.

Comparing the Top 10 Most Popular College Majors (Careers, Outlook & Pay)

Let’s look at 10 of the most popular college majors and some data around them to give you a clearer picture of how different majors can translate into careers. Below is a chart of these majors, example career paths each can lead to, the job outlook (how fast the field is growing), and the average starting salary for graduates in that major. (Data is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and NACE salary surveys.)

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (job outlook data), bls.gov, NACE, and other salary surveys (starting pay), naceweb.org, BestColleges/NCES (popular majors list), bestcolleges.com, and other cited references in text.

As you can see, each major can open the door to various careers. The “right” major for you will depend on which subjects and career you find most appealing and how you weigh factors like job growth and income. Remember that these are averages and projections; individual outcomes will vary. You can make a good living in a lower-paying field by being excellent at what you do or find yourself earning less in a high-paying field if you’re not interested or motivated. Use this chart as a guide, not a strict rulebook

FAQs: Teens (and Parents) Ask About Choosing a Major

You probably still have some questions, and that’s normal! Below is an FAQ based on common questions that students (and their parents) have about choosing a college major. Q1: I have no idea what I want to major in. Is it bad to start college “undecided”?

A: Not at all! Many first-year students begin college without a declared major; it’s better to take time to explore than to jump into a major before doing research. In most colleges, you only need to declare a major by the end of your sophomore year. You can use your first year to take  classes in various subjects and see what resonates with you. Being undecided means you’re open-minded; as you discover what you enjoy and excel in, you’ll be able to make a more well-informed decision about your major. Remember, most students change their majors or initial ideas anyway, so you’re not behind by starting undecided.

Q2: What if I choose a major and later realize it’s not right for me? Can I change it?

A: Yes, changing majors is very common in college. Don’t panic if you have a change of heart. Universities have advisors to help you make the switch and  determine the requirements of your new major. In fact, about 4 out of 5 students end up switching majors at least once during their college journey. It might mean adjusting your course plan (and sometimes taking an extra semester, though many changes happen early enough to graduate on time). The key is to to your academic advisor as soon as you know you want to change majors so that they can help you  map out a smooth transition.  College is a time of learning and discovery, so it’s okay if your path shifts as you learn more about yourself and different fields of study. .

Q3: Should I choose a major that I’m passionate about, or one that is more “practical” and likely to get a high-paying job?

A: Ideally, find a happy medium between passion and practicality. If you pick a major you love, you’ll be motivated to work hard and excel, which can lead to success (and eventually a good paycheck) in that field. appliedpsychologydegree.usc.edu. On the other hand, it’s smart to be aware of job prospects: for example, computer science and nursing have clear job demand, whereas a purely theoretical major might require more planning for a career. One approach is to follow your passion with a plan. Maybe you major in your passion and take some courses or a minor in a skill that boosts employability. For instance, love history but worried about jobs? You could major in history and get a certificate in data analysis or education, giving you broader options. In short, do what you love, but also educate yourself on career paths for that major.

Q4: How can I figure out what major is right for me if I have multiple interests or I’m torn between a few options?

A: If you have multiple interests, that’s a good thing; you have flexibility! Start by  pursing experiences related to each interest. For example, if you’re torn between medicine and law, try shadowing a doctor for a day and joining the debate or mock trial club. You can also talk to students or professionals in those fields (ask what they like and dislike about their studies/work). Another tip is to look at the course requirements for each major. Do the classes excite you when you read their descriptions? Many students also choose a double major or a major/minor in different subjects. . If you love art and computers, you might major and minor in the other (or find an interdisciplinary program like digital media that combines them).

Q5: What if my parents (or others) are pressuring me to choose a specific major, but I’m not sure if it’s what I want?

A: This can be tough, but it’s a common situation. Start with an honest, calm conversation. Show your parents that you value their input (“I understand you want me to study X because you’re worried about Y…”). Then explain your perspective and present your research. For instance, if they want you to do engineering but you love music, maybe show them how a music major can still lead to a stable career (e.g., music production, education, etc.), or discuss a compromise like a double major. Often, parents want to make sure you can support yourself. They may become more supportive if you demonstrate that you plan to succeed in your preferred field. Ultimately, it’s your life, and you’ll excel at what you’re passionate about. You might say, “I really appreciate your concern. I’ve done a lot of research and I feel that <Major> is best for me because… and here’s how I’ll make it work.”  So kindly, but confidently, advocate for what you want.

Q6: Does my major determine what I do for the rest of my life?

A: Not at all. Your major is just one step in your journey, not a binding contract for your career. Many people work in areas that aren’t directly related to their college major. Studies show that only about 46% of graduates end up working in the field of their degree;  the rest find careers in different areas. For example, you might major in biology but later go into finance or tech (biologists often have excellent analytical skills!) Or you may major in English but end up running your own business. Your interests may evolve, and the job market changes, too. Think of your major as developing a skill set, learning to think, solve problems, and communicate. Those skills can apply to many jobs. Also, you can  retrain or go to grad school in a different field if your passions shift.

Choosing a college major is a milestone, but just the beginning of an exciting adventure. If there’s one take-away from this newsletter, let it be this:  pursue what genuinely energizes and inspires you. With enthusiasm for your work,’ you’re more likely to succeed in your career.  Definitely do your research, and have a plan, but let your interests and talents lead the way.

Ultimately, the  most fulfilled professionals are those that have turned their passion into their profession.  So go ahead, dream big, believe in yourself, and take that next step toward your future. You’ve got a whole team of people (teachers, parents, mentors) rooting for you. Good luck as you explore what you love and where it can take you!

Envision by WorldStrides is passionate about guiding students each step of the way as they rise to their highest potential through transformative experiences. Our programs offer hands-on experiences that allow high schoolers to test the waters of possible career tracks in:

• Medicine
• Law & CSI
• Engineering
• Intensive Law & Trial
• Business
• Aviation
• Technology
• & More