Welcome to the Academic & Pre-Professional Advising Center

Selecting a Major/Career Planning
What can I do with this major?

“What can I do with this major?” is a commonly asked question. Selecting a major should not become a frustrating chore. You should select a major based on your interests and talents; not because you heard that you could get a high paying job. Following that path usually does not lead to academic success. If your interests and skills are not appropriate for the major, you may find yourself, in academic jeopardy. By consulting with your Undergraduate Major Advisor and the Career Center, you will gain valuable information about how the academic major can prepare you for your career. Youn can also obtain information by reading the USB bulletin. The two more well-known assessment tests, Strong Inventory and Meyer-Briggs, are excellent resources administered through the Career Center (Melville Library W-0550). Based on responses to the questionson these assessment tests, students gain valuable information about areas they may beinterested in. The Career Center staff can be reached at (631) 632-6810.Some occupations do require a career specific major. Those who are seeking employment ora career in operating a small business should seek a degree in business. Those seekingcareers in scientific research must major in the appropriate science. Most employers are not as concerned about the undergraduate major as they are about an applicant’s qualifications for the position being offered. It is imperative to work on developing and enhancing their “human skills” such as communication skills, written and verbal reasoning, analysis and cognitive skills. You should also explore internships, research opportunities (creative and scientific), and part-time jobs to gain valuable experience before you graduate. Through seeking assistance it is possible to begin to assess your strengths and work towards your career goal.

Selecting the appropriate major is the first step in attaining your goal.
The following information is from Your College Experience by John Gardner and A. Jerome Jewler:
TIME FOR ACTION:
In selecting a major, ask yourself these questions:
1. Am I interested in learning about the field?
2. Do I have the necessary skills for success?
3. Am I gaining skills, information, and perspectives that will be helpful in my career choices?

After choosing a major, begin to learn about other academic opportunities in your department. Talk with your Undergraduate Major Advisor about minors, internships,independent study, study abroad, exchange programs, and other options that might broaden your academic experience. For some people there is a direct correlation between the major and the career; for others the choice of a major is based best on subject interest, not career considerations. If your major is not directly related to your career choices, plan to use work experience or campus activities to gain entry into your first job. Talk with faculty members about internship skills and areas of expertise…Ask if they’re aware of careers or jobs in which the skills and knowledge can be utilized…. Ask employers if they look for graduates with certain majors or academic backgrounds for their entry-level positions.