For many students, entering college is a time full of infinite opportunities. But along with the excitement of being a new student, there is often the anxiety of picking a major.
The University of Memphis held its ninth annual Discover Your Major Day on Thursday, Oct. 3, in the University Center Ballroom in hopes of helping alleviate such stresses.
Lawn signs, banners and a bustling of student traffic all lead the way to the event full of informative tables for an impressive showing of the majors offered at the University of Memphis.
“I needed to find out more information about what I want to major in; I had no idea at the beginning of the year…I came in undecided," said Trey Seymour, a U of M freshman.
While some students enter into college well aware and confident in their plans for their future career goals, there is a resounding majority that struggle to find their path.
However, that is why Discover Your Major Day was created and has become a successful event that many students, often freshman, rely on for guidance and knowledge of the various majors offered.
“Discover Your Major Day is an opportunity for students to 'shop' for a major in an informal setting," according to the U of M Academic Counseling website. “They can gather information, meet with current faculty and advisors, and learn more about the many areas of study available at the U of M.”
“I have a major, but you always have to have a fall back plan," said Barbara Isovic, a freshman U of M student.
Accounting, one of the many booths at the event, had plenty of information as to what the major offers perspective students and why incoming students or students who are still unsure should consider accounting as a major.
“An accounting degree offers opportunities to work for big sports teams, fashion designers, etc; they are needed everywhere," stated Alexandra Toth, an accounting grad student. "It’s nice that they have that stability and there is a lot of consistency within the major."
Along with information for selecting the right major, students also had the opportunity to gain insight into internships, career planning and other college life tools through booths such as the Career Services, Future You, Tutoring at ESP, Counseling, Learning and Testing Center among others.
For Career Services booth event operator Kiera Myart, it is a perfect way to introduce freshman to the many services offered.
“I think it’s extremely helpful for those who are unsure and just need guidance as well as those who already know what they wanna do because they can always talk to the people at the booth(s) to get useful information and to determine where they need to go from this point forward," she said.
Whether students participated in Discover Your Major Day or not, the information is accessible year round on a daily basis and is just as valuable. Students are encouraged to visit and take advantage of what the various locations beyond the event have to offer.