FOR
THE UNDECIDED STUDENT - DETERMINING
A MAJOR
OR CAREER
FOR
THE UNDECIDED STUDENT - DETERMINING
A MAJOR
OR CAREER
Many freshmen begin their studies at UVI undecided about their intended major and those who declare a major often change their minds before gaining their baccalaureate degree. Usually students declare a major before their junior year but this choice does not necessary limit the area of study you may choose for graduate study. In fact, many graduate schools prefer that you have a solid foundation in another area other than your focus in their program. All graduate schools require a preliminary background in their discipline, however, a major during undergraduate study is not a requirement.
While you are here at UVI you should study what interests you and broaden your knowledge by fulfilling UVI's General Education curriculum. Although all students must select an area of specialization, remember that over half of your courses will be outside your chosen major. Most employers are more interested in the quality of your undergraduate experience (as determined by GPA, leadership, internships, and recommendations) than they are the specific courses completed.
The Counseling and Placement Office recommends that all UVI students take the time to complete at least one of the Interest/Aptitude Inventories On-Line and Personality Assessments On-Line. Some only take a few minutes! These exercises will help you clarify your understanding of what motivates you, where your talents lie, and where you find fulfillment.
If you have selected a major that UVI does not currently offer and therefore are considering a transfer to another undergraduate institution, consider the following questions. Students applying to Graduate Schools may find these questions of value as well!!
Which interests do you want to pursue in college?
Consider all your interests in terms of fields of study, activities, community and cultural opportunities. Do your interests require any special facilities, programs, or opportunities? Are you more interested in career preparation, technical training, or general knowledge and skills in inquiry thinking (for graduate school entry).
What degree of academic challenge is best for you?
What balance of study, activities, and social life suits you best? How interested are you in the substance of intellectual life: books, ideas, issues, and discussion? Do you want an academic program where you must work and think hard or one where you can make respectable grades without knocking yourself out? How important is it to you to perform at the top of your class or would you be satisfied to be in the middle or bottom of your college class? How well do you respond to academic pressure and competition from others?
How would you feel about going to a college where you were rarely told what to do?
How much structure and direction do you need?
How would you enjoy living in a different climate?
What kind of change in your lifestyle and perspective might be exciting or distressing and overwhelming?
What kind of surrounding is essential to your well being?
Are there certain places, activities, countryside terrain, weather or pace of life that make you happy? Do you prefer a fast-paced environment where something is happening most of the time or an organized environment where you can go your own way?
How would you feel about going to a college where the other students were quite different from you?
Would you find it an exciting or intimidating environment? Would you prefer to be with people who share your viewpoints and lifestyles or who challenge and make you question your values?
For more information about Counseling and Placement, please contact Doris Farrington-Hepburn at (340) 692-4187 or send email to dfarrin@uvi.edu. For more information about the University of the Virgin Islands, contact the Public Relations Office at (340) 693-1057.