Being a Collegiate DECA member means preparing for the future with purpose. However, one of the biggest questions students face early on is: What should I major in?
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out at once. Choosing your major is about exploration, alignment and strategy. Here are three ways to approach it:
1. Know Yourself First
Before picking a major, clarify your passions, strengths and interests. Think about what excites you in class, what you enjoy doing in your free time and where you naturally succeed.
Try this tool: MyNextMove Interest Profiler to discover what careers and majors match your personality.
2. Research Career Paths
Look beyond the title of a major and explore what it leads to. Ask yourself:
- What jobs does this major qualify me for?
- What’s the average salary and job outlook?
- Will this field need additional education?
Use this resource: Occupational Outlook Handbook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
3. Test the Waters
You don’t need to commit immediately—use your first year to explore.
- Take a variety of intro classes.
- Attend major-specific campus events.
- Ask DECA peers or alumni about their paths.
- Join DECA’s competitive events that are related to your interests!
