Christian Education: Finding A Major That's Right For You

One of the most difficult things to determine for most people going into college is what their major of study and career path will be. This is normal, and exactly what college is all about. Some students will show up on the first day with a very specific plan in mind regarding their double major, minor, and future career - but most do not. Statistically, even those who do have a plan usually end up changing their focus before graduation. Bottom line: The overwhelming majority of all college students change their major and career choice at least once while pursuing a college education, and many even change their major several times. Having a specific career path in mind is not necessary when entering college as a new student.

So what do you do? How are supposed to know what to study? How are you supposed to determine what career path is best for you? How do you decide what degree you should pursue? This article is written to give you some practical advice and tips so these questions are easier to answer.

1. What does God Think?

Most people make college education decisions based on a desire to get rich, be successful, and climb a corporate ladder. While there is nothing inherently wrong with any of these things, they are the exception and not the rule in the plans of God. The first and most important thing anyone can do when making a decision about their future is not to pursue the top 5 jobs in Fortune 500 magazine, but to seek God's wisdom and will. Prayer, finding answers in scripture, and seeking counsel from godly individuals is a necessary starting place in determining a college major. Psalm 102:17 says, "[God] regards the prayer of the destitute and does not despise their prayer." When a person humbles themselves before God, His goodness, mercy, and grace is poured onto them and their eyes are opened to His will.

2. What are your skills?

There are thousands of career options available, and most of them are necessary for the daily functioning of the world. Do not be discouraged to know that you may not be a skilled manager or CEO, but instead, perhaps, a superb craftsman, secretary, or police officer. "For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function... Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them" (Romans 12:4, 6). People are all created different. Don't get roped into a college major and career path because you want to be someone you won't enjoy being for the sake of a big bank account. Figure out your spiritual gifts, skills, talents, and desires and use those things to help you narrow down your choices. What did you enjoy in high school? What subjects seem to come naturally to you, but are much more difficult for others? What excites you? What are you passionate about?

3. What are your work values?

Some people are not happy unless their profession has a noticeable effect on people in society (i.e. social workers, rescue personnel, or medical professionals), while others prefer to work in business (i.e. financial planners, real estate, or lawyers). There are people who love to work in the trades (plumbers, carpenters, electricians) and others who entertain (actors, musicians, athletes). Whatever it is that makes your heart beat faster, consider whether or not it is a viable career option. You want to enjoy what you study and what you work in for years to come.

4. Is there a college in your area?

If so, it wouldn't hurt to have a few areas of study in mind that you might consider pursuing and sit in on some classes. What do you like about these classes? What don't you like? Could you see yourself liking this profession in 5 years? 10 or 20 years? Can you become an expert in this field, or is it beyond your ability to fully comprehend? There must come a point in time where a person admits that the competency doesn't always match their desire. A person may want nothing more in life than to be a medical doctor, but if they are unable to comprehend the sciences, it's probably a good indication that their skills and desires are unbalanced. Don't sell yourself short, but don't set down a path that you know you cannot complete.

5. Are you discouraged?

Don't be. And don't panic. College is just as much about revealing your weaknesses as it is your strengths. You may find that something you love to think about is something you hate to study. Likewise, there are things you think you will probably hate, but will often end up loving. Remember that "for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).

6. Are you going too fast?

Don't rush the process - answers will come. As you study and learn your mind will be continuously transformed and your ideas about life will be altered. After four years of college, most people look back and laugh at what they thought they would study and who they thought they would become. Thank God that we are able to learn and understand how we are wired as unique individuals. Seek God with a desire to glorify Him. He will direct your paths and show you what career he has designed for you. College can be fun, so don't let it be a drag. Be patient, don't panic, and be willing to submit to His will.