Choosing a college major can be a challenging journey for many students, and Kelli McAntee Swenson, the assistant director of university advising at CU Denver, understands this struggle well.
As an undergraduate, she switched her major several times before finally finding her place in Ethnic Studies.
Despite her uncertainties, she graduated in four years, a testament to her resilience and adaptability.
Now, she dedicates her career to helping current students navigate similar challenges as part of the Center for Undergraduate Exploration & Advising (CUE&A).
One of the key roles of CUE&A is to educate students about the importance of selecting a major while also emphasizing the flexibility that exists in career paths regardless of one’s academic focus.
A major typically encompasses the subject matter of roughly half of a student’s courses, though this can vary significantly.
Moreover, it is what will be reflected on their diploma upon graduation, and it can guide students toward specific careers.
This process of choosing a major can overwhelm many, making it crucial for students to know they are not alone in their uncertainty.
Statistics show that about one-third of students across the nation change their major during their first three years of college.
While timely graduation may not always be feasible, CU Denver offers over 110 majors and minors, along with ample resources designed to assist students in finding their ideal educational path.
To aid students in their exploration, McAntee Swenson shares several valuable tips:
First, she encourages students to embrace the unknown.
College is a prime opportunity for exploration, allowing students to discover new interests.
“I kind of wish every student came in as fully exploratory and open to whatever comes our way as an undeclared student,” McAntee Swenson said.
At CU Denver, students may encounter subjects not covered in high school or previous experiences, opening the door to new possibilities.
Second, McAntee Swenson emphasizes the importance of utilizing the core curriculum.
At CU Denver, students are required to complete a core that makes up a third of their total necessary credits for graduation.
This curriculum offers an excellent chance to explore various classes that pique students’ curiosity.
From public health to computer science or communications, the core provides an array of opportunities for discovery.
Additionally, she suggests reaching out to CUE&A for guidance.
Whether students have specific areas in mind or are unsure of where to start, CUE&A is equipped to assist them in discovering their strengths, interests, values, and personality traits.
The advisors in the office conduct activities such as exploration mapping and use tools like “Challenge Cards,” which help students clarify the issues they are passionate about tackling.
With one-on-one conversations, students can find the majors that align with their desires.
Beyond classroom learning, McAntee Swenson encourages students to explore opportunities outside of their studies.
Internships, volunteer work, clubs, and study-abroad programs are excellent avenues for self-discovery.
Resources are available on campus to assist in finding these opportunities, such as the Experiential Learning Center, which helps students secure internships, and LynxConnect, which connects them with on-campus jobs.
The Career Center is another vital resource, going beyond resume and interview preparation to provide students insights into their strengths and possible career paths aligned with their majors.
McAntee Swenson advises students to schedule a 30-minute assessment intake appointment at the Career Center to kickstart their exploration.
Finally, she emphasizes trusting one’s intuition.
“Students know themselves best, so trust in that,” she asserts.
Often, students navigate various external pressures, such as work or family commitments, which can influence their decisions.
However, it is essential to remember that the ultimate choice resides with the individual.
Kelli McAntee Swenson’s commitment to guiding students at CU Denver reflects a broader mission to empower college students during one of the most formative periods of their lives.
With her support and the numerous resources available, students can approach their college journey with confidence, equipped to find their fit, whether that leads them to declare a specific major or continue exploring their options.
image source from：news
