Even though it’s summer, you might be starting to think about the fall—specifically the school year ahead of you. It can be hard to relax during the summer and not worry about upcoming changes and choices you’ll face as a student. It’s possible that you’re extra stressed this summer if you’re a high school or college student who’s trying to choose a major. Maybe you feel pressure from your family members, friends, or teachers to choose one, but you don’t know which one to choose. You’re scared to make a decision because your decision could have lifelong consequences, and you’re overwhelmed by all the options available to you.
I definitely had concerns about choosing a major. It was a stressful and scary choice for me. But I did eventually decide what to study in college, and you can too. I have an encouraging reminder to offer you: There’s no such thing as the “right” or “wrong” major.
Why I Picked What I Picked
When I started college, my declared major was business (specifically, Business Administration: Management). Basically, that meant I took classes about accounting, economics, finance, human resources, marketing, strategy, and other business-related topics. I didn’t really enjoy my business classes, but I realized they were required for my degree.
Honestly, I was worried about my major because I was worried about my future. I didn’t know if a business degree would help me get a writing-related job after college. But I also didn’t know if an English degree would benefit me. I did like English, but I didn’t want to be an English teacher. And my college didn’t offer a journalism degree.
Partway through college, I added communications as a second major. I continued taking business classes, but I also started taking communications classes. I liked the broad nature of communications and the broad nature of business. Communications obviously includes writing, so I pursued that degree hoping to use it for a writing-related job.
What Matters More Than Your Major
Though I believe God led me to study business and communications, I also believe He can use any major for His kingdom. Yes, you read that correctly. I believe God can use any major—or no major—for His kingdom. He doesn’t need you to go to college, and He doesn’t need you to study something specific. You can love Him and love others regardless of the major you choose.
In general, I think attending college and choosing a practical major are good ideas. However, there are no commands in Scripture about either of those things. You have the freedom to make decisions about college. What matters far more than your major is humbly and open-handedly trusting God’s plan as it unfolds.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6 NASB1995)
As long as you’re striving to honor God in your decisions, you don’t need to stress about choosing a major. There isn’t a perfect degree that’ll result in a perfect career. Though it’s important to seek wisdom from the Lord (and His people), you can’t wreck His plan for you. Rest in His sovereignty, friends.
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