How To Choose A Major

STEP ONE: The first step in choosing a major is to spend some time thinking about yourself. You will need to analyze several aspects of your personality, including your interests, values and skills. Ask yourself questions like: "What do I really like to do?" "If I had all the money I'd ever want, what would I do with my time?" "What am I good at?" "What matters most to me?" "What work qualities/conditions do I value most?" "What do I hope to earn annually and how long do I want to train?" Another good place to begin doing this kind of self-assessment is the CHOICES career program. In this program, you can take a survey of your career interests, work values and job skills. Upon completion of these assessments, you will receive a comprehensive summary which will direct you to investigate specific career fields. The Center for Student Development also offers the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and Strong Interest Inventory tests to help you choose a major. To access the CHOICES program, you will need to call or visit the Center for Student Development at 56 Park Place. Appointments with a counselor can be made Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm by calling 860-738-6420. You may also wish to register for our two 1-credit life and career planning courses, the Psychology of Self Awareness and Career Directions, listed under the heading GENERAL in the course schedule booklet.   STEP TWO: Once you have done some self-analysis of your interests, values, and abilities, you are ready to research careers. The CHOICES program has extensive occupational and job market information which will help you research occupations and narrow down your career choices. Also, you can speak with one or more of the academic advisors at NCCC. For contact information, go to the NCCC main Web Page and choose Support Services, the Center for Student Development, and Academic Advising. A link to advisors will be found there. Each advisor can explain in detail one or more programs of study at NCCC.   STEP THREE: Now that you have a career in mind, you are ready to explore majors. The CHOICES program can give you helpful information about which major(s) will best prepare you for your chosen career. If you are considering more than one possibility, take the time to compare the two careers using the Compare button. Spend some time looking at the recommended educational path. Pay special attention to any specific certification or licensure requirements. Make sure the major you choose is one that will give you the best preparation to enter this career. At this point, it would be helpful to meet with a counselor about your desire to declare a major. One final note, the Center for Student Development staff and counselors are here to assist you in making educational and career plans. If at any time you wish to see a counselor, simply call the Center to make an appointment at 860-738-6420.