Are you having difficulty deciding upon your major? You are not alone. According to research, 20% - 50% of college freshmen do not know what major to pursue when they enter college. Of those who begin college knowing their major, 50% - 60% will change their mind at least once. Appalachian can help you make this important decision.

Step 1. Start by making an appointment with your academic advisor, and then explore the resources listed below.

Step 2. Once you have explored the resources, integrate the information you collected. Consider your interests, abilities, values, experiences, skills and the majors/occupational fields associated with them. Consider academic and occupational relationships (which majors lead to which jobs). Integrate majors in to your values and goals and finally, narrow your options to two or three.

Step 3. Initiate an action plan by identifying specific steps to deciding on a major and those resources needed to take action. Set a realistic timetable for taking specific actions. Remember that no plan is static; as changes take place, new decisions may need to be made. As you change your mind you may want to meet with your advisor again and revisit the Peer Career Center.

The Peer Career Center

Peer Career is a free, walk-in service which provides paraprofessional career counseling, career and educational information, and computerized career development. When visiting Peer Career, you will meet one-on-one with a trained paraprofessional counselor who will help you determine your needs and assist you with academic and career decisions. Peer Career is located on the second floor of Plemmons Student Union ( 828-262-2029).

The Career Development Center

The Career Development Center (CDC) dedicates itself to providing progressive and timely career services of the highest quality. From Career Counseling to Job Searching aids, the CDC offers many resources to help keep you abreast of the most current trends in the ever-changing world of work. Explore graduate schools in the Career Resource Center. Make an appointment to speak with your Career Counselor to update your resume or find an internship. Search the net for a job in the Technology Center and arrange to meet with company recruiters in a on-campus interview. The CDC is located on the 3rd floor of the John Thomas Academic Student Support Building (828-262-2180).

Counseling and Psychological Services Center

The Counseling and Psychological Services Center offers personal assistance to help you with the complex process of making career decisions. The Counseling Center is located on the 1st floor of the Miles Annas Student Support Building (828-262-3180).