When you attend a college-prep high school, choosing your major early on will help shape your schedule and guide many important future decisions. However, not every student knows which field of study they wish to enter so far ahead. The following guide will help bring you closer to the right major for you.

How to Choose a College Major

1. List Your Interests & Strengths

Making lists will help narrow the broad field of possible majors. Write down and categorize your interests, strengths, and weaknesses. These qualities will help determine which fields are best suited to you. You should be skilled in your field, but you also need to have an interest in what you do to be fully committed to your work.

2. Speak With a Mentor

Talking to a guidance counselor, advisor, or teacher who knows you well can give you a much-needed outside perspective. The staff at college prep high schools are there to help guide you towards future success, so they’ll be happy to offer advice. Set up an appointment with a mentor to discuss potential college majors.

3. Think About Long-Term Goals

What goals do you have for the future? If you have professional goals and careers in mind, look into majors that would support those endeavors. To make your first steps into a career in the future in the future, it helps to have relevant academic experience. In addition, in college you may be able to obtain internships related to your major, giving you the opportunity to build up real-life experience while still in school.

4. Consider Earning Potential & Employment Rates

Employability and future earnings should be a considerable part of your decision process. College is an investment, and you want your career to pay off for the time, energy, and costs required. Look up the employment rates and average salaries of different degrees, especially ones you’re interested in.

5. Take College Courses

Many college-prep high schools offer advanced placement or college-level courses that will give you a taste of higher education. These specialized classes will allow you to expand your interests and knowledge beyond the core curriculum. If you find yourself drawn to a certain field while taking one of these courses, you may discover your best fit for a major.

If you’re looking for a private school that fully prepares you for college life and education, attend Saint Joseph High School in Metuchen, NJ. Serving Union, Essex, Hunterdon, Somerset, and Monmouth County, this all-boys high school gives students the diverse, quality education they need to thrive. Their strong academic environment and emphasis on college prep help students grow and directs them towards the right major and career path. To learn more about the college-prep high school’s commitment to creating balanced, life-long learners, call (732) 549-7600. Visit their website for information on the admissions process.