Getting Started

Whether you already know what you’d like to major in or haven’t yet decided, USM has many resources here to help you through the process.  Be sure to work closely with your professional and faculty advisors to create a plan for graduation that works for your time frame and lifestyle.

“What are you going to major in while in college?” 

“What are you going to do for the rest of your life?”

How many times has someone asked you these questions?  How does it make you feel when you’re not quite sure how to answer? Here are a few tips to get you started.

  • The major you choose in college is a starting point for the rest of your life – it doesn’t necessarily determine where you’re going to go and what you’re going to do!
  • The major you choose in college will help you build the skills you’ll need throughout your life.
  • The more information you know about yourself, majors, and careers – the easier it will be to choose a major!

What is your Advisor’s role in your Major/Minor Exploration process?

  • Your advisor asks questions to help you start exploring self, academic and career options and life opportunities.
  • Your advisor helps you follow the timeline and set up appointments for reflection.
  • Your advisor assists you in identifying themes, strengths and struggles realized during the discovery process connecting them to potential academic pursuits.
  • Your advisor identifies resources and contacts. Assists you in making connections with resources and discusses how said resources will complement your plan.
  • Your advisor will follow up periodically to assess your progress and provide assistance and engage you in the exploration process where appropriate.

Gather all the information you can about yourself, your interests, and the many majors and minors USM has to offer. It is important to take the time to find a good fit for you. Each student navigates the decision-making process in their own way.

Choosing a major is more than just picking a title—it’s a collaborative journey between you and your advisor. Use the Academic Catalog to track requirements while following these five steps to discovery:

Conversation

Share your experiences and goals with your advisor to spark new ideas and explore academic or career possibilities.

Discovery

Take the lead in exploring your interests and values through various activities and campus opportunities.

Reflection

Evaluate how your findings align with your personal beliefs, skills, and long-term vision.

Plan

Work with your advisor to build a realistic roadmap with clear short-term and long-term goals.

Action

Step into your plan, put it into motion, and regularly check in to ensure it still fits your professional and personal commitments.

An undeclared major presents you with the opportunity to gather all the information you can about yourself, your interests, and the many majors USM has to offer. It is important to take the time to find a good fit for you. 

Not declaring a major could mean one or more of the following things:

  • You already know what you want to major in but you need to satisfy some requirements before transitioning into that major.
  • You have some ideas about what you might want to major in but are not ready to commit.
  • You have absolutely no idea what you want to major in or where to start.
  • You have transferred to USM from another institution and are undeclared while you work towards your next major.

A University Advisor will guide you through your exploration process. We believe that being undeclared is an excellent opportunity for you to explore your options as you take interesting classes that may lead you to a major that you will find both exciting and interesting.

Work with your advisor to design a graduation plan. Start Planning Your Degree Experience.

Almost ready to graduate? Congratulations! Apply for Graduation (MyUSM Portal Login Required)

Professional Academic Advisors can offer advice on how to begin creating a career path. We can discuss your interests and develop goals to assist you as you move forward. This may include reviewing your degree progress or introducing you to a Career Advisor who can help you find an internship or job shadow opportunities, review your resume, and discuss job search skills. Click the links below for more information.