Major and Career Myths
"Career Myths and How to Debunk Them"
For more information on major and career myths check out this article from the Occupational
Outlook Quarterly.
Here's a list of 10 major and career myths that have the potential to fool many students. Don't let these myths affect your ability to make an informed decision!
MYTH #1
There is one perfect career for me.
THE FACTS
- There may be several majors and careers that appeal to you and match your interests, abilities, and values.
- K-State majors provide a background for several career possibilities.
- Your decision should be made based on an understanding of yourself and the options available.
MYTH #2
Choosing a major means deciding what I will do with the rest of my life.
THE FACTS
- Choosing a major does not necessarily mean that you will be employed in a career directly related to that field.
- Most college graduates can anticipate one or more career changes during their working lives.
MYTH #3
I should choose a major or career field based on what's "hot" in the current job market.
THE FACTS
- It’s risky to choose a major or career field based strictly on current market trends.
- A certain field may be growing in size, but economics and other factors can reverse the trend and change the job market.
- It is better to choose a major/career because you have a genuine interest and talent for it.
MYTH #4
People with humanities or liberal arts majors have trouble finding jobs because they don't have any marketable skills.
THE FACTS
- People who major in the humanities or liberal arts gain very valuable skills, especially in writing, organizational, and communications skills.
- These skills are highly prized by potential employers.
- A major in these areas can prepare you for a wide variety of jobs.
MYTH #5
Since I have general education credits and electives to complete at K-State, I can wait until I'm a junior to figure out my major.
THE FACTS
- You should begin the process of deciding a major NOW!
- It takes time and effort to think through the process of choosing a major.
- If you wait until you are a junior to begin the process of choosing a major, you may have to take extra courses and delay your graduation.
MYTH #6
If I take the introductory course in a potential major, I"ll know for sure it's for me.
THE FACTS
- It is a good idea to take courses in a major to learn more about it.
- Sometimes, you will need more than one course to know if the major will hold your interest and if you have the skills to succeed in it academically.
MYTH #7
If I want to go to medical school, the only acceptable major is something in the natural sciences.
THE FACTS
- You can major in many different areas and pursue a health career.
- You will be required to complete science prerequisites, but medical schools seek many types of applicants, including students who have a liberal arts background.
- Medical and other professional schools such as law schools are looking for applicants who think critically, write well, and are well-rounded.
MYTH #8
A major should be directly related to a future career goal.
THE FACTS
- Some majors are directly related to career goals (such as accounting, engineering, or education), but most career fields are seeking applicants from a variety of majors.
- Employers are often most interested in the skills you have developed during your college career.
- It is important to major in something you are passionate about.
- In the years following graduation, many students will find themselves working in careers not directly related to their undergraduate majors.
MYTH #9
Most college freshmen have a major and career path planned out.
THE FACTS
- Approximately 70% of college students will change their major at least once during the course of their academic journey.
- Give yourself permission to explore and change your major if you find something else that is a better fit.
MYTH #10
Taking a career assessment test will tell me what I should choose for a major or career.
THE FACTS
- Career assessments are great tools, but they will not find you a perfect major.
- They can help you learn more about yourself, and tie your interests, abilities and values to major and career possibilities.