Try Things Out
Take classes, explore experiences
Once you have narrowed down your list to a few majors, consider an engagement experience that will allow you to go a little deeper to test your interest and skills and get a sense of the “academic life” of the major. Additionally, there are experiential learning opportunities to explore careers and jobs related to a field of study.
Take an exploratory course.
We recommend a course EDUC-X 152 Making Major Decisions that is taught by academic advisors in Advising and Major Exploration Services and career coaches in Career Exploration and Student Employment.
Below are other exploratory course options offered through some of the IUB schools, which are available to all students.
- EDUC-X 152 Making Major Decisions
- ASCS-Q 295 Design Your Life and Career
- EDUC-F 203 Mentoring Future Educators
- MSCH-C 150 Media School College and Career Preparation
- SICE-Y 100 Exploring Tech Pathways
- SPH-K 199 Careers in Helping Professions
- SPEA-V 252 O'Neill School Career Development and Planning
Take an introductory course.
We will often advise students to take the first introductory course(s) in the major or majors they are exploring. You can find the first recommended courses for IU Bloomington majors on the Explore Programs tool.
Before enrolling, be sure to consult with your advisor about what courses are appropriate for you and if/how they will count in the majors you are exploring.
Some students like to map out their long-term plan to better visualize what they need to stay on track with their intended graduation timeline. The Stellic Planner (Under Plan Your Path in Stellic) is an excellent tool for mapping out a long-term academic plan.
Explore beyond the classroom.
Research shows that students who pursue experiential learning end up with greater career satisfaction and tend to be higher earners. Through Experiential Learning Activities (ELAs) you can gain insights into what types of work you enjoy and develop skills that employers seek.
Experiential learning activities that you can pursue at IU include:
- Undergraduate research and creative activity
- Study abroad
- Community engagement
- Student leadership
- Student employment
You should also think about joining a student organization related to your major.
Meet with your academic advisor in AMES to get help finding experiences related to your major that will deepen your learning.
Meet with your career coach in CESE to ask what experiences would help you develop career-readiness.
The IU Peer Coaches can give you a peer perspective on how to get started with these types of experiences.