For many college students, picking a major takes time and revising
For many college students, picking a major takes time and revising
- February 23, 2026
- Mariam Farag, political science and literary journalism undergrad, explains in this piece for EdSource, Feb. 23, 2026
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“For many students applying to college, choosing the right major and career path may seem like the most important decision they’ve ever had to make.
Some students prioritize fields that offer high salaries, while others follow their passions. Some may be inspired by their peers’ careers or influenced by their parents’ wishes.
But the reality is, many students do not stick to their initial choice. The American Academy of Arts and Sciences reveals that 55% of students who graduated with a humanities degree began their college education intending to major in another field. Roughly 85% of college students change their major at least once, according to the Washington, D.C.-based consulting firm EAB, formerly known as the Education Advisory Board. EAB studies also show that students who delay declaring a major graduate at a slightly higher rate than those who choose a major in their first semester.
Academic advisers on California college campuses say that, contrary to what students may believe, their major does not necessarily determine their career path, and recommend that students take the time to find a major that fits them.”
Continue reading: https://edsource.org/2026/college-students-changing-majors/751462?amp=1.
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