Students uncertain of the academic path they want to follow can create a number of positives, as well as challenges for themselves down the road. If you’re still deciding on the route you should take, we have created a list of pros and cons to help you make your final enrollment decision.
The Pros and Cons of an Undecided Major
Before you can effectively make a decision, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of applying for your undergrad as an undeclared student. First things first, the pros:
“Most proponents of entering college undecided will mention that it allows you to have ‘an open mind’ during your first couple years at college. You have the ability to sample a wide variety of different departments while seriously considering the pros and cons of each as a potential major, thus making a more informed decision,” says Richard Daker, an Associate Opinion Editor at The Daily Princeton. “Undecided students are also more likely to be adventurous with their course selection, testing the waters of the big and small departments alike and taking courses in topics that they know next to nothing about.”
On the contrary, students who are undeclared may not be certain that the college they’re applying to can fulfill them academically and set them up for success. Say you grow an interest in literature, and you decide later on you want to focus your studies on journalism. If the school you’re enrolled in doesn’t offer a speciality major in journalism, you could potentially miss out on that opportunity. In addition, students with an undeclared major may have to take additional semesters to catch up and can potentially end up with a larger sum of student debt. That being said, it’s encouraged to explore your options and take advantage of any guidance or support you may be open to before you categorize yourself as undeclared.
How the University of Vermont Treats the Undeclared Major
Curious to see how the University of Vermont treats the undeclared major? Here is a brief synopsis pulled from the universities website:
“Many students apply to the University of Vermont as “undeclared” majors — still unsure where their academic passions lie. At the time students apply to UVM, each is required to choose one of our seven undergraduate schools as an academic base, but, in most cases, a student will not have to select a major until the end of the first or second year at the university.”
While students are still encouraged to apply to the university, whether or not they have a determined major, it’s encouraged to take advantage of Career Services in order to explore different interests, available majors, related careers, and more.
The Best Option
Fortunately today, students like you have the opportunity to audit college classes while still enrolled in high school. Not only do colleges welcome the idea of high school students experiencing college far before their first-year, but many have developed specialized online and on-campus programs. For students interested in getting a taste of the college-life, while experiencing a broad range of topics, we encourage you to speak with your school counselor to see what your options are.
Experience College Level Academics Before Your First-Year
The University of Vermont offers an effective way for students to explore challenging material, ease the transition to college and explore a wide-range of topics before they begin their first-year of college. For those who want to feel more confident in progressing to college and focus on areas of interest – from agriculture and life science to pre-med; students are invited to apply to the UVM Summer Academy.
UVM Summer Academy is an outstanding academically challenging program for 10th, 11th or 12th grade high school students complete with world-class faculty and a vibrant campus community. Successful students receive 3 UVM college credits, a greater understanding of what college life is like first-hand and a head start on their college career. Interested in learning more? Inquire today!