Fact vs. Fiction: When Is It Acceptable to Change Your Major?

Fiction: Once you pick your major freshman year, you're stuck with it.

Fact: Not only can you change your major, but it's easy to do!

What happens if you don't like your major? Don't worry! There's no need to panic. Nazareth College provides you with a simple, and easy, way to switch majors. I started my freshman year as an English Lit major, and ended the Spring Semester as a Communication/Rhetoric major. I talked to my advisor and he provided me with the paperwork to make the transition. After researching majors in the course catalog (located on Nazareth College's homepage), and talking with a few of the career counselors in Career Services, I made the decision to switch to the Communication/Rhetoric program.

I focused on my interests, which included reading and writing, and narrowed my search from there. A lot of the program websites provide students with an in-depth look at career options, a possible program outline and even alumni profiles. Looking at the Comm./Rhet. website, accompanied with guidance from a career counselor, aided my decision making process. There was a simple form to fill out (called the "declaration/change of major/minor form) and I needed the signature of an academic advisor. That's all!

The most important thing to remember is that college allows you to tailor your educational experience. If there is a class that is not compatible with your learning style, or you don't feel as though your major fits your interests, there is a way to adapt your schedule so you get the most out of your Nazareth experience. Don't be afraid to think outside of the box!