college essay undecided major

25 Genius "Why This Major" Essay Examples for Top-20 Colleges

Here's the secret to writing your "Why This Major?" essays:

They're not really asking "Why this major?" but "Why you and this major?"

Just like with your Why This College essays, you need to show that you're a perfect match for the program you're applying to through specific examples , ideas , and connections to the school's offerings .

Even if you're applying undecided or undeclared , which is common for students to do, admissions officers ask this question because they want to know these 3 things:

• Do you have an idea about what you want your future to look like (what you want to study, possible career, etc.), and will our school help you fulfill that vision?
• Do you have what it takes to be a successful student within your desired major or program?
• How genuinely interested are you in this area of study? Or are you choosing it for superficial reasons (like money)?

What if you're undecided?

Even if you're undecided, you should have some idea about possible fields you're interested in.

It's impossible for you to have lived 17 or 18 years and not picked up some sort of interest that you could study in college.

After all, why are you applying to colleges in the first place? Probably to pursue a more in-depth education in a particular area.

So if you're applying undecided, you'll need to still talk about potential areas you're interested in, even if you aren't totally committed to them yet.

What makes a great "Why This Major?" essay?

The best "Why this major" answers show a deep level of interest and knowledge about the field.

Admissions officers want to know that you're serious about what you want to study.

Tip #1. Avoid superficial or cliché reasons

I often see students write generic remarks like...

• "Math is the language of the universe"
• "Studying communications will help me learn how to collaborate with others better."
• "Computer science is about problem solving"

These are OK starting points, but you need to delve deeper.

How do you go deeper? Try writing about specifics of the field.

Use some geeky or technical language . Instead of saying "biology," you could write about "molecular biology and its impact on genetic engineering."

Be specific and vivid in your writing, and show your interest in the field using specific anecdotes and moments that you haven't yet written about.

Tip #2. Ask yourself questions at the heart of the area of study.

If you're writing about math, some simple but deep question to ask yourself are things like:

• Is math discovered or created?
• What are the unsolved mysteries of math?
• How do the different branches of math (e.g. algebra, geometry, etc.) relate to each other?

These types of questions will get you thinking about what the major represents, rather than just what it literally is.

Focus on ideas , which are always most interesting.

Tip #3. Think about what the most common answer would be, and then say something different.

For computer science, I see a lot of students write about things like "automation", "artificial intelligence", or "problem solving."

For engineering, I see a lot of students write things about Legos or other "building" toys that they played with growing up.

For medicine, I see students write about "wanting to help people."

These are fine starting points for reflecting, but on their own it'll come off as cliché.

Tip #4. What will this school in particular offer to help you study this field better than other schools?

All colleges offer pretty much the same selection of majors and programs, so what is unique about this school's approach?

Again, you'll need to do some thinking and research.

Tip #5. Show how you've already explored the field.

Think about your classes, but more importantly, think about the ways you've gone beyond the classroom.

Those reasons are the most compelling for why you're a great fit for the major.

How to structure your "Why This Major?" essay

Here's formula you can use to write this essay if you're struggling to get started:

• I am passionate about subject X and here's why (offer a short story or anecdote)
• Here's is what I want to do with that passion in the future
• This is what this school has to offer or will do in order to help me achieve my goals and how (specific and unique reasons)

Now, let's look at some examples of students who wrote successful "Why This Major?" essays.

I've gathered 25 "Why Major?" essays from students who got into top-20 schools like Brown, Georgetown, MIT, and more.

This huge list covers a variety of majors and programs—from Computer Science to English to Bioinformatics—so you'll be able to find one that's similar to yours.

Let's dive right into it.

25 "Why This Major" Essay Examples

1. "why bioinformatics" georgetown essay example.

Prompt: Please relate your interest in studying at Georgetown University to your goals. How do these thoughts relate to your chosen course of study? (If you are applying to major in the FLL or in a Science, please specifically address those interests.) (500 words max)

Why This Essay Works:

Having specific details is key to making your essays more engaging. Whenever possible, substitute broader terms for more specific ones. In this essay, the student does this well, for example by writing "recombinant DNA into Escherichia coli" instead of saying "molecular biology."

Digging into why you're passionate about certain things is important for "Why Major" type of essays like this one. Admissions wants to know how and why that interest started. This student does a great job of telling a family story that inspired their interest in French and an academic experience that sparked their biology interest.

What They Might Improve:

This essay doesn't mention much of what Georgetown would offer them. Whenever possible, it's beneficial to reference specific aspects about the school you're applying to. This demonstrates genuine interest and makes it more convincing that your studies would flourish at the school. Although this isn't a "Why Georgetown" essay, these details can and should be incorporated, as the prompt asks you to relate your chosen area(s) of study to the school.

2. "Why Linguistics?" Brown University Essay Example

Prompt: Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about any academic interests that excite you, and how you might use the Open Curriculum to pursue them while also embracing topics with which you are unfamiliar. (200-250 words)

My primary interest is in languages and linguistics, specifically Spanish, Portuguese and the descent of these languages from Latin which I explored in my IB Extended Essay. Thus, something that excites me about the complete freedom of the Brown curriculum is the opportunity to learn about Hispanic and Lusophone culture, literature and language in an intersectional way through a concentration in Latin American studies combined with classes and undergraduate research in Linguistics. I intend to supplement my language acquisition with practical application through study abroad opportunities at PUC-Rio, Brazil and in Santiago, Chile, perhaps through the Engaged Scholars Program which will allow me to forge deeper connections with the communities and cultures I am studying. I am also attracted by the possibility of a 5-year BA/MA course in Linguistics which will permit me to conduct meaningful and extensive research on a topic I am truly passionate about.

However, I also have an interest in Biochemistry and Molecular biology. The Open Curriculum will enable me to pursue this avenue of study and research without detracting from my principal focus on languages. Therefore, perhaps what I am most excited for is interdisciplinary study at Brown and the possibility of forging unforeseen connections between disparate academic areas and weaving them together into a program of study that will engage, thrill, and inspire me towards a lifelong path of academic inquiry. For example, I am interested to explore how languages and sociolinguistics can be used to promote medical research and provision in Latin America.

Naming things unique to the school shows you have genuine interest. Listing specific programs, courses, or majors shows you've done your research.

The author's reasons for "Why Brown?" fit into their background and identity. This makes their reasons seem genuine and compelling.

The essay is divided into two parts with distinct answers. Showing how those reasons relate could make the essay more cohesive.

Ending with a sentence "For example..." leaves more to be desired and explained.

3. "Why Medicine and Surgery?" Pomona College Essay Example

Prompt: Most Pomona students enter the College undecided about a major, or they change their minds about their prospective major by the time they graduate. Certainly we aren’t going to hold you to any of the choices you’ve made above. But, in no more than 250 words, please tell us why you’ve chosen the academic programs (or undecided!) that you have listed. (250 words max)

I’m sitting backstage at my first international piano competition, anxiously awaiting my turn to perform. Unconsciously, I massage my right wrist, still recovering from a recent injury. The young man beside me feels my nervousness and starts a conversation.

As we whisper, I notice him rub his hands together uncomfortably. “What’s wrong?” I ask, quickly leaving my own wrist alone. He suppresses a nervous laugh, then quietly details the long and unsuccessful surgery that shattered his dream of becoming a professional musician. His hands were permanently damaged.

“Alessandra Fang,” the judges call. I stand up, walk to the main stage and look back to see him encourage me with a stiff, crooked thumbs-up. As my fingers dance on the keys, I observe the fragile muscles and ligaments under my skin.

I realize in that moment that it is not in a massive concert hall where I wanted to change people’s lives, but on a smaller stage: an operating room. As an artist who has had her share of painful, music-related injuries, my goal is to become a musician’s physician, and blend my greatest two passions so that I might bring relief to those around me, while understanding their musical and anatomical plight.

I wish to pursue both Biology and Music programs at Pomona College. I want to become a hand surgeon while still developing my artistry on the piano. After all, surgery also has its own cadence, complexity and composition.

4. "Why Education/Teaching?" University of Michigan Essay Example

Prompt: Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (100-550 words)

Growing up, I always pictured myself as a great teacher as an adult. With the second best secondary education program in the country and an emphasis on the liberal arts and undergraduate education, I am confident that U-M will shape me into the great educator I’ve dreamed of becoming since I was a kid.

Hallmarks of a liberal arts education include teamwork, problem-solving, clear writing, and effective communication. These are also skills that any exceptional teacher needs. U-M offers an unparalleled curriculum that prepares students to successfully run classrooms and obtain Provisional Teacher Certifications upon graduation, exposing students to diverse classes and people in Ann Arbor, and providing them with an invaluable liberal arts education along the way.

Being an effective teacher means connecting with and stimulating all students at its core. The liberal arts foundation I will receive in the College of Literature, Sciences, and the Arts (LSA), married with the experiential education and training the School of Education (SoE) will provide, will mold me into that great teacher—a mentor and role model for any student, regardless of creed—I’ve always aspired to become.

The Teacher Education Preferred Admission (TEPA) for incoming freshmen piqued my interest because the program is the crossroad between the liberal arts and teacher education; two components I was looking for in a college. TEPA will allow me to build a strong liberal arts base in LSA my first two years on campus before entering SoE, while also gaining beneficial experiences in the education field early on.

The education-oriented programs WE READ and Students Empowering Education specifically appealed to me because they will bridge my liberal arts education with my anticipated career as a high school English teacher. Similarly, my Spanish classes will have a practical application in the Ann Arbor Language Partnership, a program that immediately interested me as a potential Spanish minor.

During my first two years as a pre-admit, I'll be supported by my TEPA peers and staff, specifically from my SoE personal adviser. TEPA will take the large campus and make it feel smaller, allowing me to form organic connections with like-minded people and groups that can cultivate my interest in education before entering SoE junior year.

I need a meaningful education to be a meaningful educator. Truthfully, I could go to almost any college to become a teacher, but only schools that synthesize in- and out-of-classroom learning like SoE produce great ones. U-M ranking sixth in the country for undergraduate teaching bolstered my interest in the university and confirmed what I already knew: I will receive an education in LSA and SoE that will change who I am as a person and not just a student, and prepare me to provide the same for others as a teacher.

The great educator I’ve always envisioned myself becoming is one that can inspire without bounds. From my time as a student, I’ve come to realize that a truly influential teacher can work with students who have little in common with themselves and still be impactful. LSA's purposeful and broad curriculum, paired with SoE's hands-on courses and fieldwork, and the additional opportunities available through TEPA, will shape me into that life-changing teacher, for any student who walks through my classroom door.

5. "Why Business?" University of Michigan Essay Example

Growing up in a community that bleeds maize and blue, the community represented by the University of Michigan has always been one that I could see myself representing as both a student and alumni. From football games at the big house to classes at Ross, each and every opportunity available at U of M represents a piece of my life that I hope to continue to incorporate into my life for the rest of my life.

The opportunity to take courses that allow for enriched experiences in developing a real business is one that I intend to be involved in as soon as possible. I will use this type of class as a way to test my skills and learn where I need to become stronger as a leader and student. Watching others equally driven as me, their tactics that are successful and not successful will imprint on how I attack problems in the future and shape my overall leadership style.

By being involved in the Multidisciplinary Action Projects down the road as a graduate student, I hope to learn firsthand what it takes to run and be involved with real businesses. Firsthand exposure is the best way to learn how to solve problems- especially surrounded by peers who are equally as driven and dedicated as I am.

Filled with students striving for nothing but the best they are capable of is a community that I am certain I will enrich and fit into. By sharing ideas and collaborating together instead of against each other, each and every one of us will contribute to the business world as leaders and innovators.

The University of Michigan is a place I can see myself learning and growing as a leader for the next four years as I intend to use all of the tools at my disposal to become a top business person. The opportunities within the school I will be involved in and the peers that I will work beside only enrich the values of what being a Wolverine mean to me.

6. "Why Math and Accounting?" University of Southern California (USC) Essay Example

Prompt: Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (250 words max)

All throughout my life, I always loved doing math no matter what the concept. My love for math led to me taking advanced math classes for my grade. I even had to take a bus to a high school when I was in middle school to take an advanced math class. I always knew that I would want to pursue a career dealing with mathematics, but I was not really sure until my junior year. I had not decided what I wanted to be in the future, so my uncle suggested being a CPA, and I looked into it. When I did my research, it interested me as they made a decent amount of money and they worked with numbers.

At USC, I would like to major in accounting and gain the opportunity to possibly receive an internship at one of the big accounting firms in Los Angeles through the networking of USC. If I were able to get an internship, I would be able to gain experience for when I graduate and search for a job. I would also consider going for a Masters of Business Administration as I know that USC has one of the best business programs in the country.

7. "Why Computer Science?" Columbia University Essay Example

Prompt: Describe two or three of your current intellectual interests and why they are exciting to you. Why will Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences be the right environment in which to pursue your interests? (650 words max)

8. "Why Engineering and Law?" University of Michigan Essay Example

The University of Michigan’s College of Engineering has a proactive approach to career path discovery and job search. While I do hope to aspire to a corporate attorney, an engineering degree from the University of Michigan would provide me the advantage of readiness.

U.S News and World Report published an article about challenges law school applicants with STEM degrees face. Number one was the lack of research skills. Michigan Undergraduate Engineering has research opportunities for all undergraduate students. I hope to even take advantage of The College of Engineering (CoE) International Internship Program. The chance to see the world and contribute to the world-class studies conducted by Michigan Engineering students is a unique quality. The article also reported that STEM applicants often lack job experience. Michigan Engineering hosts internship fairs, which even freshman can participate in. By utilizing the opportunity to work in a professional setting, I will be more adapt to presenting myself in a mature and respectable manor in a corporate setting.

Many people are puzzled by my aspirations to become a corporate lawyer with an engineering degree. While I enjoy learning about many areas of study, math and science have always peaked my interest. Like my attraction to law, I am drawn to the definitiveness of engineering specifically. While there is a right and wrong in methods and procedures, there is a chance to be creative; for the end goal is functionality. Law requires critical thinking, problem solving, and the questioning of presented facts and figures. These skills are also encompassed in Michigan Engineering. With a technical understanding of industry and engineering, I will be able to more accurately represent a corporation. Like the professors at Michigan Engineering, I hope to be an expert in my field. At Michigan Engineering, I will be educated by the best of the best. Professors that have been exposed to their fields in every aspect; allowing them to provide the best guidance to students. Instead of just presenting facts and figures in a courtroom, I will be able to understand and explain them.

9. "Why Psychology?" Carnegie Mellon Essay Example

Prompt: Most students choose their intended major or area of study based on a passion or inspiration that’s developed over time – what passion or inspiration led you to choose this area of study? (300 words max)

When I was younger, I faced a lot of negative emotions including anxiety and low self-esteem. For a long time, I felt alone and as if no one understood how I felt. My self confidence was at an all-time low when I started taking psychology. All of a sudden the negative emotions I was feeling started making sense. I was suddenly able to understand how people were wired and why others treated me a certain way. I in fact was able to feel empathy for my aggressors after understanding that those who treated me negatively often faced struggles of their own. Most importantly, I felt as though something out there finally understood me. Because psychology offered insight into my own behavior and helped me to understand others, I was eventually able to overcome my insecurities.

In the future, I would like to help others do the same. No matter where I end up, understanding why people behave a certain way and being more considerate and empathetic for others will only help me thrive. Mental health is a growing issue in our society. The world we live in is a confusing place filled with pain, but psychology provides a way to determine the cause of this suffering and how to change it. I never want anyone to feel the isolation and sorrow I felt when I was younger. I want to help others become compassionate and unconditionally loving not just toward others, but to themselves. Even if I only make a small change in the world and affect just one person’s life, I would like to pursue that.

10. "Why Biology and Environmental Science?" University of Pennsylvania Essay Example

Prompt: Considering the specific undergraduate school you have selected, how will you explore your academic and intellectual interests at the University of Pennsylvania? For students applying to the coordinated dual-degree and specialized programs, please answer these questions in regard to your single-degree school choice; your interest in the coordinated dual-degree or specialized program may be addressed through the program-specific essay. (300-450 words)

As a child the world fascinated me. From questioning the makeup of the dirt I played in, to doubting the existence of gravity as I flew a kite, I was always thinking. Time passed, and my consciousness opened to more, like atoms, the Big Bang Theory, the psychology behind dreams, and the list goes on. Everything fascinated me; curiosity quickly became a part of my character. Some say ignorance is bliss, but I have to disagree. Ignorance is what fuels my curiosity; ignorance is what drives me to discover, learn, and initiate change. Living in a small rural town with my grandmother and disabled father, I have been limited by geography and socioeconomics. A perfect blend of humanities and factualities, the College of Arts and Sciences is an exploratory lab for all I do not know. At Penn, courses from Neurobiology of Learning and Memory to The Sociology of Gender allow me to rid my ignorance one class at a time. The unique and specialized curriculum provides a place to explore whatever I wonder and answer whatever I question. While my grandmother did not have the money for me to attend science camps, to visit museums, or to travel more than a few hours from my home, living in the country always provided me with endless exploration. My interest in trees in particular led me to specialize in the forestry portion of our Envirothon team for four years of high school. The passion I have for biology is second to my interest in helping others. Rural areas of Pennsylvania are in desperate need for physicians, especially in the field of women’s health. My goal is to return to my community and fill that need. As a low income, first-generation student, I have had limited opportunities, but I have seized any that I could and where there were none, I created some. As a seventh grader, I pioneered the colorguard of our newly formed high school marching band. Last year, as captain of 14 twirlers, I took my first plane ride to Disney World where my band performed. This experience taught more than I could ever learn in a classroom. Similarly, there are endless opportunities at Penn, both intra- and extra-curricular, and I plan to take advantage of all that I can to feed my fire.

11. "Why Finance and Political Science?" University of Pennsylvania Essay Example

This essay does a great job of conveying a thoughtful and candid applicant. Their phrasing, although verbose in some places, comes across genuine because the author walks you through how they learned about the school, what they're looking for in a school, and why the school would offer those specific things. Phrases like "I didn't know if I could honestly see myself studying that" are conversational and natural-sounding, which help create a sincere tone.

By referencing specific programs, like "Penn in Washington" as well as various minors and concentrations, it is clear this student has done their research about the school. One of the most important aspects for a "Why Us" essay is to find specific and unique opportunities and name them in your essay. These could be things like specific professors and their work, campus and its location, interesting classes, unique internship/study-abroad/job programs, special events, and many more. The key is referencing things that are entirely unique to the school and not many other schools too. Avoid broad terms like "renowned faculty" or "interdisciplinary studies" because virtually all colleges offer things like this, and these are some of the most over-used and artificial reasons used in "Why Us" essays.

This essay has many moments of repetition that are unnecessary. In general, avoid repeating your ideas and when editing, ask yourself of each sentence: does this add something distinctly new and important to my essay? There are two common mistakes that often create repetition: prefacing your ideas and summarizing your ideas. Unlike academic writing, you don't need to "prepare" the reader for what you're going to say, and you don't need to conclude it with a summary. By doing so, you only create unnecessary repetition and take up words which could otherwise be used to include new specific details or ideas.

This essay spends nearly half of its words explaining the "interdisciplinary" opportunities at UPenn. However, this reason is quite superficial and not at all unique to Penn, as almost all colleges offer some sort of interdisciplinary study (i.e. combining your interests or studying multiple fields). Talking about "interdisciplinary study" is one of the most common reasons students use in their "Why Us" essay, and it often comes across as generic and unoriginal. Instead, look for offerings that no other (or very few other) schools provide. Narrow down your reasons "why" to make them more specific to the school, even if they are smaller scale. You can mention things like "interdisciplinary studies" or "diverse student body" briefly as a reason why, but don't make them one of your primary reasons why, unless you have something particularly unique about it.

12. "Why Engineering?" Duke University Essay Example

Prompt: If you are applying to the Pratt School of Engineering as a first-year applicant, please discuss why you want to study engineering and why you would like to study at Duke. (150 words max)

At Duke I was equally entranced by the articulate movements of 3D printers in the Co-Lab and the stunning Gothic architecture. Instead of forming a dichotomy, these aspects of Duke blended to symbolize its emphasis on interdisciplinary education, which will offer me a nuanced perspective of the world integral to becoming a leader in engineering.

I will join the Academy for Model Aeronautics and share my passion for designing drones, while taking fascinating courses such as “Taboo Markets” and “Banality of Evil”, while simultaneously working on an engineering project that improves real people’s lives in “Engineering Design”. By joining the Duke Robotics Club, I can expand upon my love for robotics, and I hope to write for the Duke Engineering magazine, as well as join the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. By drawing from this diverse range of educational experiences, I can become a leader in creating a better future.

13. "Why Neuroscience?" University of Southern California (USC) Essay Example

I had never considered traveling across the country to pursue an education. In fact, living in Pittsburgh all of my life and growing up with people who are so adamant about staying put, forced me to believe that I too had to box myself into this small, yet evolving city. However, now I can confidently tell my friends and family that I want to travel to California for college (and ignore their odd looks).

What strikes me most about USC is its ability to maintain uniformity despite its diverse student body--in interests, ethnicity, and opinion. There are not many schools where I could be best friends with filmmakers, artists, photographers, chemists, potential CEOs, and writers. Although all of these people are spread across different schools, they still seem to maintain a cultural unity. Being surrounded by such a distinct trojan pride combined with the ambitious atmosphere would be both inspiring and propulsive.

At USC, I would not have to confine to merely one of my interests. I have always had aspirations of becoming a doctor and pursuing neuroscience, but have never felt comfortable ignoring the humanities. As a Trojan, I could pursue research at the Dana and David Dornsife Cognitive Neuroscience Imaging Center or even take part in PIBBS, while also honing my writing skills through the intricate Writing Program.

Much like the students, my interests could somehow be molded into a diverse uniformity, and I could prove my fellow Pittsburghers that perhaps they need to move around more.

14. "Why Journalism?" Ithaca College Essay Example

Prompt: Please tell us why you selected this specific academic program and what other academic programs interest you. (10-200 words)

Recording devices have been banned from the courtroom of the Supreme Court Building since 1946. Therefore, when the Court makes a landmark decision, interns must hand-deliver paper copies of the ruling to news organizations.

The interns often pair running shoes with their business attire, for the quarter-mile sprint from the Court building to the area where networks ​await.

When I first saw photographs of “The Running of the Interns”, I wanted nothing more than to ​be​ one of those people. I wanted to feel my running shoes beating against the sidewalks, to feel sweat staining my suit.

Why did this tradition attract me to journalism? Because it reminded me that the news is a race, a constantly-changing collection of stories shaping social and political development.

The opportunity to contribute to that collection is why, beyond Ithaca’s journalism program, I’m also interested in the College’s minors in Politics and Writing.

I think all of this desire to be part of a story defines what it means to be a journalist, a writer: When I become a journalism major at Ithaca College, and, later, perhaps a running intern, I get to be a contender in the race to change the world.

15. "Why Economics and Political Science?" University of Michigan Essay Example

In my junior year microeconomics class, my teacher extensively explored the ways in which people from different socioeconomic classes were affected by our economic system. I was frustrated by the ways our country forces those living in poverty to spend the little money they have on taxable goods. I began to empathize with them. How can people pull themselves out of poverty if their government seems to be working against them? More than anything, I was frustrated that I felt powerless to help them in any way.

Those lessons inspired and motivated me. I had always looked at economics as nothing more than an analysis of business models and resource allocation. I began to see it as a way to fix fundamental problems in our society, from examining the effects of healthcare expansion on crime and poverty rates to studying how shifts in our political climate affect how our country’s financial process will change. I now see economics as a way to help those in need in my country and throughout the world.

I volunteered after school for Representative Dingell and had the opportunity to attend numerous events hosted by the Ford School. Again and again, I was impressed by the extent of the Ford School’s student involvement in critical issues. Through my work with the Congresswoman, I was able to gain a greater understanding of how different groups of people were affected by shifts in political and economic priorities. My goal is to become a civil rights attorney or study economics as a way to promote sustainable growth in developing nations.

I want to begin my studies at the University of Michigan in LSA to gain a foundation in economics and political science-related courses. After my first year, I hope to gain admission to the Ford School. The connections that LSA and Ford have to Poverty Solutions solidified by interest in the University of Michigan. If I attended these schools as an undergraduate student, I would be able to assist with research on the causes and ramifications of poverty. Professor Michael Barr’s research on policy initiatives and our financial system is fascinating from the perspective of a prospective economics major. At the University of Michigan, I would be able to join teams of renowned researchers working toward the betterment of our society and our world.

The range of schools working in connection with Poverty Solutions is evidence of the University’s devotion to civic engagement. I would be able to participate in groundbreaking research regarding issues I am interested in; I would have the ability to study poverty and ways to stunt or alleviate its effects in other countries. As someone hoping to pursue a career in public service, it is truly incredible to have the opportunity to join a research community specifically geared toward solving problems I am passionate about solving.

I want to join the University of Michigan’s legacy of innovators. I want to be part of the LSA community, studying economics and political science. I want to attend the Ford School and understand how policy in America and abroad has an effect on global poverty. I want to be involved with the Poverty Solutions Initiative, conducting groundbreaking research on the ways we can reform our financial system to better serve the lower and middle classes.

16. "Why English Major?" Rice University Essay Example

Prompt: Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 words max)

It's an understatement to label me as an English geek; I am that kid who squeals in excitement in English class when given a new essay assignment while others may groan in exasperation. I understand why some may be a bit anxious when preparing to turn in an essay for evaluation; you could bring an essay to two different English teachers and receive two different grades on it. This subjectivity is why some folks may prefer subjects such as mathematics in which the right answer is not debatable. However, its subjectivity is exactly what captivates me. I enjoy reasoning my opinions of arguments and the intentions of authors.

I was really happy when I learned I didn't have to major in Criminal Justice or Political Science to be a civil rights lawyer because I want to become a professional author as well. So, majoring in English is perfect for me.

17. "Why Political Science?" University of Michigan Essay Example

Riding the elevator to the seventh floor of Haven Hall, my heart was practically leaping out of my chest. I was meeting with Dr. Jenna Bednar of the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts Department of Political Science, and as I recalled her credentials- B.A. in Political Science from Michigan, M.A. and PhD in Political Science from Stanford- I felt increasingly out of place. As a junior in high school with limited political experience, I am grateful that she agreed to take time out of her day to meet with me and answer my numerous questions about LSA, Michigan, and political theory.

Upon entering her office, my eyes were drawn to bookshelves full of political literature, from the classics like De Tocqueville and Locke (which I read in a summer college program in 2017), to her own recently published work, The Robust Federation. Encouraged by her broad smile and having just completed an official campus tour, I launched into my questions. Dr. Bednar described the connections she and her students have made at Michigan, through LSA and in general.

This revealed to me that the faculty would take a personal interest in my academic career. We discussed the average class size in LSA and the Department of Political Science, her academic background, and how to survive Michigan winters. Dr. Bednar then brought my attention to the benefits that LSA Political Science gives its students.

For example, as head of the Michigan in Washington program, Dr. Bednar's passion for both political science and education was evident as she introduced me to one of Michigan's most influential academic programs. Although I hail from two miles outside the D.C. border, I aspire to participate in the Michigan in Washington program, to build on my internship of the past year with my delegate to the Maryland General Assembly.

Under his guidance, I conducted nationwide policy research, attended civic association meetings and development forums, and traveled to our state capitol to watch the legislative process unfold. Consequently, an internship at the federal level is my logical next step toward building the foundations of a political career.

Dr. Bednar, upon hearing about my internship with my delegate, suggested that I think about the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. I believe that this research program offers a unique means of building my understanding of political science. I am eager to apply to the UROP program in hopes of furthering my research skills within the complex political landscape of today. Furthermore, the variety of courses that I can explore as a political science major is remarkable: from "Sports, Politics, and Society", to "Nations and Nationalism," the scope of topics will keep me engaged.

When I sat down with Dr. Bednar, I expected a five-minute chat; I received forty-five minutes of helpful advice, political theorizing, and well wishes. Leaving her office, I felt energized and ready to dive into LSA Political Science right there. Her demeanor helped to build my confidence to boldly seek connections in my search for knowledge. I saw the Michigan difference firsthand, from various undergraduate opportunities for political science, to a universal love for the school from students and faculty alike.

18. "Why Chemistry and Biology?" MIT Essay Example

Prompt: Although you may not yet know what you want to major in, which department or program at MIT appeals to you and why? (100 words max)

I remember boiling down cabbage with my dad to make titration indicators. When I first read about the process of translation, of rendering mRNA into proteins, my eyes filled with tears; this is what I would do, apply the chemistry that had defined my childhood to my love of biology. In the past few months alone, MIT researchers have visualized a critical growth kinase and decoded the kavalactone gene. To major in both the chemistry and biology departments at MIT would be an unequaled opportunity to explore the molecular basis of life and apply that knowledge to real-world innovation.

19. "Why Neuroscience?" University of Michigan Essay Example

My favorite class in high school was also my hardest. It was World Culture/World Literature, an hour and a half each day of seeing history, art, and literature not as separate entities but as intricately connected, one incomplete without the other. I learned to see humanism in Greek sculpture, religious propaganda in the chiaroscuro of Baroque paintings, disillusionment in modern art. Although seemingly unrelated to my STEM-leaning interests, the analytical skills I learned there would prove invaluable in neuroscience research. Connecting electroencephalography results to mechanisms for chronic pain relief wasn’t all too different from drawing links between historical movements and paintings; both required an intimate knowledge of background information and a willingness to take risks, to see new relationships and forge unprecedented connections.

LSA embodies precisely this mentality, fostering interdisciplinary learning and problem-solving. With classes like “Health, Biology, and Society: What is Cancer?”, bridging humanistic and biological approaches to disease, and graduation requirements ranging from Natural Sciences to Race and Ethnicity, LSA prepares students for the real world, where problems necessitate not just single-minded expertise but also a diverse understanding of other factors involved. My internship experience only confirmed the practicality of this perspective; we used mindfulness meditation alongside spinal cord stimulation technologies to treat chronic pain.

This mindset is not confined to learning inside the classroom. The LSA Opportunity Hub is robust, connecting students to internships at Nike, Forbes, and the US Department of Education, among other places. To intern as a research assistant at Mayo Clinic, to use mathematical models to predict brain tumor growth like current Michigan junior Tatum Doyle would be an unequalled opportunity. Her work in incorporating mathematical concepts in medical research personifies the LSA culture, where problems are best solved holistically. LSA’s interdisciplinary approach does not detract from fostering specialization and excellence in specific fields, but adds; its Biochemistry program promotes innovation and independence in its students and is ranked top in the nation.

I remember boiling down cabbage with my dad to make acid/base indicators. In elementary school, my teacher wrote that I had been spending too much time reading animal books and too little time playing with other kids. I loved (and still love) all things living, often marvelling at the complexity of the animal kingdom, the human body, the organs, and the cells that were the foundation for everything else. The first time I read about the process of translation, of rendering mRNA into proteins, my eyes filled with tears; this is what I wanted to do, to apply the chemistry that had defined my childhood to my love of biology.

LSA shares that passion, dedicating a plethora of resources, both intellectual and material, to its Biochemistry department. With equipment like atomic absorption spectrophotometers, classes in Endocrinology, and distinguished professors, the University of Michigan has everything any biochemistry undergraduate student would need, and much more. To research under a PI like Dr. Kopelman, winner of the J. William Fulbright Research Award, would be a dream fulfilled. His work in employing 5-dimensional chemical imaging to visualize and treat tumors does what LSA does best; it uses an interdisciplinary approach to make academic discoveries both relevant and essential in the real world. It is a culture I would be honored to take part in, should I be accepted.

20. "Why Undeclared?" University of Michigan Essay Example

Sweat drips down my face onto homework in front of me.

I just got home from a soccer game; I’m not stressed. This is until I realize I still have a plethora of edits to make on my lab report as well as emails to write for an upcoming NHS event. AND I have three tests the next day.

Although stressful, I enjoy every minute of juggling a variety of academics and extracurriculars. I appreciate all the opportunities my high school offers to me and I take advantage of as many as I can handle. Thanks to my involved years of high school, I have received a great education as well as many experiences I would never trade away.

Entering my senior year and researching universities I may want to attend, there is one question which continuously presents itself. What do I want to major in when I get to college? It is a scary question and I have never known the answer. Despite participating in many extracurriculars such as National Honor Society, Science Olympiad, Math Honor Society, and Future Business Leaders of America, I still have no idea what I want to do with my life.

As a student at LSA, I would be able to use the abundance of resources to explore possibilities for life after college. Since I am one of the many college applicants who has not decided upon a major, a large, liberal arts college like LSA is the perfect place for me to discover more about myself, pursue interests, and find my purpose. I have considered medicine, business, economics, and law. The two courses I have enjoyed the most are biomedical sciences and US History. I am truly all over the map!

With so much variety at LSA, I would be able to change majors or take a diverse group of classes so that I could find what I want to study. LSA is unique from its University of Michigan counterparts because it offers a broader range of departments, majors, and courses. The flexibility at LSA would help me discover what I want my life to be like while supporting me through my journey.

Additionally, LSA provides students with multiple opportunities not found anywhere else at University of Michigan. One program that caught my eye was Michigan Learning Communities. This program appeals to me because having the resources of this large university, yet finding a niche in the community to challenge myself and others, can help me grow as a student and a person. Similarly, the Opportunity Hub at LSA jumped out at me as I researched the University and toured the school. I would take full advantage of the great connections the Opportunity Hub provides, as it could help me find an internship or job offer when the perfect time comes. MLCs, the Opportunity Hub, and the many other programs which LSA offers are the main reasons why LSA would be the best college fit for me.

I was initially drawn to the University of Michigan by the beautiful campus, great athletics programs, unmatched prestige, and massive alumni network. However, as I dove deeper, I discovered LSA, a school that can help me realize my purpose and passions while providing a focused learning environment to lead me to a bright future.

21. "Why Computer Science?" Cornell Essay Example

22. "why kinesiology" university of michigan essay example, 23. "why mathematics" cornell essay example.

Prompt: Cornell Engineering celebrates innovative problem solving that helps people, communities…the world. Consider your ideas and aspirations and describe how a Cornell Engineering education would allow you to leverage technological problem-solving to improve the world we live in. (250-650 words)

For "Why Us?" college essays, one of the most important parts is to show ways you imagine being involved on campus. This student does a great job of showing that they've done their research about Cornell, by connecting their passion for studying heart disease to specific initiatives already taking place on campus. Try researching what events, research, or programs are being conducted. By referencing those specifics, you can create convincing reasons of why this school is fit for you.

When discussing your intended area of study, one effective strategy is to identify a problem that you see. This problem can be in the field itself, your community, or the world. Then, you can connect this problem to yourself by showing how you'd want to help solve it. Don't try to tackle it entirely yourself, but show how you'd "take bites" out of this larger problem. It is also important that you identify potential solutions to the problem. You definitely don't (and shouldn't) have all the answers, but what do you see as potential steps for combatting the issue?

Using technical language, such as referencing "semi-elliptical curves" and "modular form" in this essay, will help show your in-depth knowledge and passion. Don't be afraid to use technical jargon like this, and don't worry if admissions officers may not know all the terms. As long as they have context and knowing the terminology isn't critical to understanding your point, including "nerdy" language will make your essay more engaging and demonstrate your intelligence.

If you have personal connections to the school you're applying to (such as legacy, family members who work there, students or faculty you're close with), it can be a good idea to reference those connections. Showing personal connections to the school makes admissions think, "They're already practically one of us!" Just make sure that these connections aren't contrived: only write about them if you have a clear purpose within your essay for introducing them. In this essay, the student references their brother who attended Cornell, but does so in a way that naturally ties into the rest of their reasons for "why Cornell."

24. "Why Computer Science?" Brown University Essay Example

Prompt: Why are you drawn to the area(s) of study you indicated? (150 words max)

There was a time when I was low and afraid to be with myself. That’s when I dived into programming. I always sat with my laptop. But unlike others on Instagram or Snapchat, I was coding. I always kept myself occupied so I wouldn’t think about hardships. But as I was solving those little Instantiation and StackOverflow errors, I realized that any problem in my life had a solution. I could either modify the code and right the wrong, or just keep compiling them, producing no output. So, life is not all that different. That is why I want to pursue Computer Science. I know I can work to keep myself happy. Inevitably, what makes me happy is Computer Science, which is what I want to pursue.

25. "Why Journalism?" Emerson College Essay Example

Prompt: As you know, the academic programs at Emerson College are focused on communication and the arts. Please tell us what influenced you to select your major. If you're undecided about your major, what attracted you to Emerson's programs? Please be brief. (100-200 words)

Recording devices have been banned from the courtroom of the United States Supreme Court Building since 1946. Therefore, when the Court makes a landmark decision, interns must hand-deliver paper copies of the ruling to news organizations.

The quarter-mile sprint from the Court building to the area where networks ​await ​is no easy feat. But the interns dress with this mind, often pairing running shoes with their business attire.

When I first saw photographs of “The Running of the Interns”, I knew that I wanted nothing more than to ​be​ one of those people. I wanted to feel my running shoes beating against the limestone sidewalks, to feel sweat staining my suit.

Why did a tradition centered around dashing through D.C. attract me to journalism? Because it reminded me that the news is a race, a constantly-changing collection of stories shaping social and political development.

This, I think, defines both what it means to be a journalist and why I want to be a journalist: When I become a journalism major at Emerson, and, later, a part of the press--perhaps a running intern--I get to be a contender in the race to change the world.

What You Can Learn From These "Why This Major" Essay Examples

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How To Write The "Why Major" Essay (Updated)

“Why do you want to study your chosen major?" is one of the most common supplemental essay prompts. It's a fair question and one that you should be able to answer in an authentic and engaging essay.

Seemingly straightforward, this question can take many different forms. 

Examples of "Why Major" Essay Prompts

Brown university.

Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about an academic interest (or interests) that excites you, and how you might use the Open Curriculum to pursue it. (250 words)

Bucknell University

Please explain your interest in your first-choice major/undecided status and your second-choice major, should you opt to list one. (250 words)

Carnegie Mellon University

Most students choose their intended major or area of study based on a passion or inspiration that’s developed over time – what passion or inspiration led you to choose this area of study?  (300 words)

Yale University

Tell us about a topic or idea that excites you and is related to one or more academic areas you selected above. Why are you drawn to it? (200 words)

Your Objectives

What should you aim to accomplish with your essay? You should:

• Describe how you developed your academic interest(s). How did you get to where you are now? What were your motivations?
• Tie your background and/or experiences to your current interests and pursuits.
• Explain how that particular college will help you delve deeper into your academic interest and prepare you for the future.
• Explain how you will contribute to that particular institution’s community while enrolled and after graduating.

How to Write the “Why Major” Essay

1. identify stories that illustrate how you developed an interest in the academic discipline..

Anecdotes are an important part of any essay you write for your college applications (and really any personal essay). They serve to draw your reader in, helping them get to know you through your experiences, and bring color to your narrative. In the case of the “why major” essay, anecdotes allow you to create an arc. You’ll show the reader how you first became interested in a discipline and bring them to the present day, building your interest with stories that offer insight into your passion for the subject.

For example, if you’re an aspiring software engineer and plan on majoring in computer science in college, you might describe your first time using a computer and what that interaction was like, or a challenge you encountered and overcame while designing an app from scratch. You should also offer a look into your experiences along the way — potentially when you realized you could not only use a machine but change the way it communicates with you and others through coding.

2. Explore how these incidents helped you develop a passion for the subject and lock onto an impactful mission you'd like to accomplish.

Connect these stories to the why of your narrative — how did these individual experiences become integral to your story and lead you to where you are today? In other words, articulate that “aha” moment. There doesn’t have to be a singular experience that made you realize this was what you wanted to do with your life; instead, you can paint a picture of how these moments together lead you to this point. In the example above, for instance, you might tie your first experience with a computer to your development in the courses you chose to take and then impetus behind your recent coding project.

In addition, connect your experience to your ultimate mission - why are you going to college? Who will you be able to positively impact with the knowledge and experience your education will give you? For example, if one of your experiences was as a coding tutor, and during that you realized that not all children have access to computer science tutors, your mission might be to create an app that provides simple and accessible lessons to children who have limited access to the internet, perhaps in a format they can download and then use offline to conserve the cost of data.

3. Explain how attending X school will help you delve even deeper into the topic.

Finally, explain what it is about the school that will help you explore your academic passion. While this is a “why major” and not a “why us” essay, you still need to weave in your excitement about this school in particular. Every admissions committee wants a student who believes that their institution is the way to achieve their goals. In order to do that, you might discuss how the program that interests you is particularly unique to that school, a faculty member you’d like to study with, a course that excites you, or something else you can’t easily find at another college.

What Not to Say 1. Don’t write about a major or class the school doesn’t offer to undergraduates.

This is a no-brainer: if the school doesn’t offer, say, journalism, don’t talk about how excited you are to pursue that major. Instead, you might discuss how their English program will prepare you for a career in journalism. Similarly, don’t mention graduate-level course offerings as there may not be an opportunity for you to actually take the course as an undergraduate.

2. Don’t regurgitate your resume.

While it’s fine to mention activities that are related to your chosen major, you should focus on how they helped shape your journey rather than describing the activities themselves. This is what the activities section is for. Your essay should be the behind the scenes story.

3. Avoid mentioning superficial reasons.

For instance, don’t say you want to be a doctor because it’s a prestigious job or that you want a high-earning potential. Your reasons need to go deeper than that (and deeper than I want to help people)! 

What If You’re Undecided?

You don’t have to have a major chosen in order to write this essay. Most colleges accept students who are undecided, unless they’re applying to a specific school or program that requires you to declare your major before matriculating.

If you’re undecided, there are a couple of ways to approach this essay. It’s a good idea to use a mix of these strategies.

• Mention 2-3 of your top interests and correlating experiences, connecting them to one another if possible.
• Describe how you expect X school to help you hone your areas of interest further and why this is the best place to do it.
• Explain why you’re undecided.
• Write about a few different courses that inspire you and explain why.
• Reflect back to your ultimate mission and how there may be many possible routes to get there and that you’d like to explore the options before deciding.

Now that you have a better understanding of the "Why Major" essay, read the 5 Steps to   ACE your Personal Statement. Already did that? Learn more about the self-paced   Write Your Way Into College   course.  

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How to Write a “Why This Major” Essay

Zach Skillings is the Scholarships360 Newsletter Editor. He specializes in college admissions and strives to answer important questions about higher education. When he’s not contributing to Scholarships360, Zach writes about travel, music, film, and culture. His work has been published in Our State Magazine, Ladygunn Magazine, The Nocturnal Times, and The Lexington Dispatch. Zach graduated from Elon University with a degree in Cinema and Television Arts.

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What do you want to major in and why? The “why this major ” topic is one of the most common supplemental essay prompts used by colleges. It helps schools understand your academic interests, intellectual passions, and what you plan to do professionally. In this guide, we’ll talk about how you can write a stellar “Why this Major” essay. 

Also see: Overview of common scholarship essay prompts

Tips for writing the “Why this Major” essay

There’s no standard formula for writing a good “Why this Major” essay, but an effective one usually addresses the following three questions: 

• How did you become interested in this major? 
• What do you hope to accomplish by majoring in this subject? 
• Why is this school a good fit for pursuing this major? 

Let’s discuss how you can effectively answer each of these questions and put together a well-rounded essay. 

Also read: How to choose a major

1. Share your origin story

The first objective is to explain how your interest in the major developed in the first place. One way to do this is by telling a story. To put things in Marvel terms, think of your academic passion as your superpower and how you discovered this interest as your origin story. Of course, you don’t actually have to picture yourself as a superhero. But it helps to tell a good story. 

Anecdotes bring color to your narrative and help the reader get to know you better. If you’re an aspiring English major, you might describe how you fell in love with books as a child. Or if you plan on pursuing an engineering degree, perhaps you describe your fascination with technology and how it shaped you from a young age. Ultimately, your goal is to connect your background to your current interest. 

While it can be engaging to share a brief story at the beginning of your essay, just make sure your anecdote is relevant and free of unnecessary details. Don’t get carried away and share your entire life story. Additionally, you don’t have to point to a singular experience that made you realize you wanted to pursue this major. Instead, you can paint a picture of how certain moments throughout your life led you to this point. 

Also see: How to write an essay about yourself

2. Outline your goals

The next step is to describe your vision for the future. You should outline your college goals and your career goals, and how majoring in a certain field will help you achieve them. Think of your education as a tool you can use to craft your future. What are you trying to build, and why is your major the right tool for the job? The English major, for instance, may explain that their field of study can help them hone their writing skills and launch their career as an author. Or the engineering major might describe how they want to get a job as an environmental engineer and address problems such as waste disposal and water pollution. 

You don’t (and probably shouldn’t) focus exclusively on your career goals, though. If you’re not sure what kind of job you want after graduation, that’s totally okay. Instead, focus on what you hope to accomplish during your college years. What do you hope to learn by pursuing this major? What projects do you want to produce? Do you have plans to perform research in this field? Your answers to these questions will demonstrate your passion for your major and your motivation behind choosing it. 

Also see: How to write a 250 word essay

3. Explain your school choice 

Finally, you should mention why this particular school is a good fit for pursuing your major. While this doesn’t have to be a big part of your essay, you should still weave in your excitement about the school. Colleges want students who believe that their institution is the right path to achieving their goals. Try to go beyond superficial answers like “this college is ranked highly for this major”. Get specific and discuss unique aspects of the program, courses that interest you, or faculty members you’d like to work with. 

Related: How to choose a college

What if I’m undecided? 

If you’re unsure of your major, try to pick 1-3 potential fields of study and describe how you feel about them. Why are you interested in these subjects, and how do they relate to your potential career goals? Explain why you haven’t settled on a particular major yet. And if you can, describe how your various interests connect with each other. You’re essentially writing the same type of essay described above, but acknowledging that you don’t know what you want to major in. Colleges understand that and actually expect many of their incoming students to be undecided. That’s why it’s still possible to write the “Why this Major” essay even when your academic interests aren’t set in stone. 

Read more: Is it bad to apply to college as an undeclared major?

Example essay prompts

Although it’s a fairly straightforward question, it can take many forms. Here’s a few examples of how different colleges phrase the “Why this Major” essay prompt: 

Yale University : Students at Yale have plenty of time to explore their academic interests before committing to one or more major fields of study. Many students either modify their original academic direction or change their minds entirely. As of this moment, what academic areas seem to fit your interests or goals most comfortably? Please indicate up to three from the list provided. (100 words)

Purdue University : Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you have selected. (250 words)

North Carolina State University : Explain why you selected the academic program(s) above and why you are interested in studying these at NC State.

Brown University : Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about any academic interests that excite you, and how you might pursue them at Brown. (200-250 words) 

Georgia Tech : Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech? 

Top tips for how to write a “why this major” essay 

Make it personal .

No matter what major you choose, it is meaningful to detail a true representation of your passion. Be authentic and use storytelling to emphasize your love for your intended major! Try to write about a time in your life when you realized what your passions were. 

Also see: Supplemental essays: how important are they? 

Be specific! 

When you are writing about your major or the school, you be as specific as possible! Try to avoid broad statements that do not reveal much about your interests. Rather, be specific about certain aspects of your life and journey to discovering what you want to major in. Additionally, when detailing the school mention specific classes, professors and buildings that can help you achieve your career goals. 

One of the most important and often overlooked aspects of the “why this major” essay is the tie back to the school itself. It’s important to detail why the school itself is a perfect fit for pursuing your major interests. In order to successfully write about why the school is a good fit for you need to adequately research the institution. You can do this by scrolling through the school’s social media pages and their website. 

Related: How to write a great supplemental essay

Mistakes to avoid in your “why this major” essay

Repeating the website.

Do not just parrot the school website! Rather, take the information from the website and turn it into your own words. Be sure to describe how you will take advantage of the resources available rather than just stating them. 

Choosing the wrong major

Do not feel pressured to just write about a random major! If you are undecided, then write about that! Or, if you want to pick a less popular major to stand out from the rest of applicants, this can end in an inauthentic and boring essay. Rather, choose a major that genuinely aligns with your interests, even if it may be a more “basic” option. Ultimately, admissions officers just want to get a good idea of who you are and why you want to study what you want to study.

Choosing too many majors

If you are someone who is interested in multiple topics, this may not be the best outlet to detail all of your passions. Rather, try to stick to 1 or 2 majors you want to pursue. If you do not assert a strong opinion or passion on 1 major it can lead to a broad and hard-to-follow response which may cause you to seem apathetic. So, dive in! Submerge yourself into one major and make sure your excitement shines through. You can always consider mentioning how another interest could become a minor or double major.  

Also see: Should you double major or minor? 

Final thoughts

Remember that an effective “Why this Major” essay accomplishes three main objectives: 

• Ties your background to your current interest in the major
• Connects your interest in the major to your goals for the future 
• Explains how the school in question is a good fit 

By touching on these three areas, your essay will have a complete narrative arc. Happy writing! 

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Frequently asked questions about writing a “why this major” essay

Should i mention my career goals in the “why this major” essay, how can i make my essay stand out, is it ok to use the same “why this major” essay for multiple colleges, what are some common mistakes to avoid, how can i demonstrate my dedication to the major if i haven’t taken relevant courses yet, scholarships360 recommended.

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How Do I Write Essays About My Major/Career Goals When I'm Undecided?

I am applying as an undecided major to a few schools and all of them have said (at tours or open houses) that they don't look down upon undecided applicants during admissions. However, four of these schools have supplemental essays that ask about my career goals or why I'm applying to a specific department at that school. I don't know. That's why I'm undecided. How do I answer these?

Sometimes "The Dean" worries that, despite what you've learned on tours and in information sessions, selecting "Undecided" as a major may send a subliminal message to admission committees that suggests, "I'm really not all that interested in anything," when, in fact, you're actually interested in everything , yet just not ready to narrow down a choice. So the essays that await you will afford the perfect opportunity to show admission officials that you do indeed have multiple passions. Try to have some fun with these essays. For instance, you could take a whimsical approach; something like this:

On Mondays I'm an orthopedic surgeon, wearing a starched white lab coat with my name stitched on the pocket, helping young athletes recover from injuries -- just as a doctor once helped me when I tore my rotator cuff in a volleyball game.

On Tuesdays I'm an environmental journalist, exploring the decline of the sea turtle population that I learned about when I spent last summer volunteering in coastal South Carolina ...

On Wednesdays I'm an English teacher, inspiring skeptical high school sophomores to actually love poetry and to write their own ...

Your final paragraph or two (depending on the essay word limits ) would explain that you have many interests that you want to explore before choosing an academic concentration or a career goal, and then you can get specific and point out which departments and actual classes at the college in question will allow you to pursue these varied areas.

The objective of your essay will be to enable the admission folks to appreciate you as an enthusiastic student with many facets rather than someone who might just be heading to college for the football tailgates and buffet breakfasts. ;-)

About the Ask the Dean Column

Sally Rubenstone is a veteran of the college admissions process and is the co-author of three books covering admissions. She worked as a Smith College admission counselor for 15 years and has also served as an independent college counselor, in addition to working as a senior advisor at College Confidential since 2002. If you'd like to submit a question to The Dean please email us at [email protected].

Sally Rubenstone

Sally Rubenstone knows the competitive and often convoluted college admission process inside out: From the first time the topic of college comes up at the dinner table until the last duffel bag is unloaded on a dorm room floor. She is the co-author of Panicked Parents' Guide to College Admissions; The Transfer Student's Guide to Changing Colleges and The International Student's Guide to Going to College in America. Sally has appeared on NBC's Today program and has been quoted in countless publications, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Weekend, USA Today, U.S. News & World Report, Newsweek, People and Seventeen. Sally has viewed the admissions world from many angles: As a Smith College admission counselor for 15 years, an independent college counselor serving students from a wide range of backgrounds and the author of College Confidential's "Ask the Dean" column. She also taught language arts, social studies, study skills and test preparation in 10 schools, including American international schools in London, Paris, Geneva, Athens and Tel Aviv. As senior advisor to College Confidential since 2002, Sally has helped hundreds of students and parents navigate the college admissions maze. In 2008, she co-founded College Karma, a private college consulting firm, with her College Confidential colleague Dave Berry, and she continues to serve as a College Confidential advisor. Sally and her husband, Chris Petrides, became first-time parents in 1997 at the ripe-old age of 45. So Sally was nearly an official senior citizen when her son Jack began the college selection process, and when she was finally able to practice what she had preached for more than three decades.

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How to write the ‘why this major’ essay

How to write the “why this major” supplemental essay.

Bonus Material: PrepMaven’s 50+ Real Supplemental Essays for Ivy+ Schools

If you’re in the process of applying to colleges, you likely already know that many universities (especially top-tier schools like Ivies) ask you to write essays in response to supplemental prompts. 

When it comes to selective schools, these supplemental essays make a huge difference! Some schools even prioritize your supplemental essays over your Common App personal statement. 

One of the most common supplemental essay prompts asks you to explain your choice of major or academic interest. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what you need to do to craft the perfect response to this prompt. 

As universities get more and more selective, you’ll want to make sure you do everything possible to ensure your admissions application is perfect. At PrepMaven, that’s exactly what we do: for years, our expert tutors have guided students through the college application process, helping them land acceptances at schools like Princeton, Harvard, and MIT. 

Read on for our guide–backed up by years of experience–on how to approach the “Why this major?” essay prompt. 

Download 50+ Real Supplemental Essays for Ivy+ Schools

Jump to section: What is the “Why this major” essay? Examples of “Why this major” prompts What are colleges looking for when they ask “Why this major?” Start with a story or a question Get into “why” Get into “how” Things to avoid Next steps

What is the “Why this major” essay?

This essay prompt can come in many forms, but the fundamental idea is the same. Colleges want to hear about what academic subject interests you and why. 

Sometimes, the college will ask you about major choice specifically; other times, they may ask you about “academic/intellectual interests.” Really, these come down to the same thing: what’s interesting to you, and why do you wish to pursue it?

At the same time, many schools will ask you how you plan to pursue this academic interest at their university specifically. This doesn’t change the core of the essay, but it does mean you’ll have to include specific information about the university you’re applying to, and how their academic offerings intersect with your own interests. 

After the “Why us?” prompts (on which we have a detailed guide here ), this is probably the most common supplemental essay prompt you’ll encounter, so you’ll want to make sure that you’re ready for this one well ahead of the application deadlines. 

Below, we’ll walk you through what these prompts look like, and what you need to do to answer them effectively. 

Examples of “Why this major” prompts

Lots of schools ask a version of this question, but each university has their own spin on it. Take a look below for some examples from the 2022-2023 application cycle: 

Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (Approximately 250 words, USC) Most students choose their intended major or area of study based on a passion or inspiration that’s developed over time – what passion or inspiration led you to choose this area of study? (300 words, Carnegie Mellon) What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college? (200 words, Emory University)

As you can see, each of these looks a bit different, but really they all want to know the same thing: what interests you, and why?

What are colleges looking for when they ask “Why this major?”

Simply put, they want to see whether you’re really passionate about something. Almost nothing is as impressive to college admissions officers as real, demonstrated passion for some particular interest. 

College admissions committees want to see that you really care about some topic, that you’re the kind of student who has thought carefully about what they want to pursue. Why? Well, students with real passion for what they study are just more likely to achieve impressive things and to really give their all to their major.

Ultimately, you can think of your response to this prompt breaking down into three key components: 

• Explain what you’re interested in specifically.
• Show, with details from your life, why it interests you.
• Address how you’ll engage the specific resources of the college you’re applying to. 

The good news is that, because this essay is mostly about you and your interests, you can develop a template and reuse it anytime you’re asked a version of this question. While you’ll want to edit it a bit for each school, you won’t have to start from scratch! 

Below, we’ll run down what one of these essays needs to have to wow admissions officers. Although this guide should give you the information you need, there’s never a substitute for a real college essay expert who can help you with your essay live–we always recommend reaching out to one of our essay coaches if you want to maximize your chances of admission.

• Start with a story or a question

This is often the advice with all college essays, and it’s no less true here: you want to start with something that grabs the reader’s attention. For these essays, think about it as giving your intellectual interests a sort of origin story. There are lots of people who want to study any particular major–if you want to stand out from those thousands of other applicants, you’ll want to connect your choice of major with something unique and personal. 

The easiest way of doing this is to tell a (very) brief story about where this interest of yours comes from. When did you realize you wanted to pursue, say, neuroscience or English? What event in your life sparked this interest? If you can tell a concise story that describes that moment, you’ll immediately stand out to college admissions committees. 

Alternatively, you can start with a question (or multiple) that demonstrates how deeply you’ve already thought about your academic interests. For example, if you want to study history, you could start by posing some historical questions that interest you and you wish to pursue further. 

You’ll want to be careful with the questions approach, however: if you ask questions that are too basic or come off as uninformed, you’ll actually hurt your case. You want to make sure that these are real, serious questions that only someone who truly cares about your field of study would be asking. 

Whether you choose to start with a question or a story, you’ll want to ensure that it’s specific and unique to you. The way to hook a reader–especially a picky college admission officer–is to show them something they haven’t seen before. 

Take a look at a few of the real supplemental essays collected in our free guide , and take careful note of how each one begins with something unique to hook in admissions committees!

• Get into “why”

Once you’ve introduced your choice of major or academic interest with an anecdote or question, it’s time to get into why it appeals to you. This is trickier than it may seem, and really requires some thought. How do you explain why you’re interested in a particular field to someone who likely isn’t?

The keys here are passion and specifics. The more passionate and evocative your language, the better you’ll be able to convey to admissions committees that you really do care about what you’re studying. And the more specific you’re able to be–raising specific issues or questions–about your choice of major, the more it’ll seem like you really know your stuff. 

This is also a great place for you to introduce specific experiences you’ve had that relate to this academic interest or major. Did you do some kind of research? Have you done a really deep dive on a particular author or topic? Did you participate in an internship or similar work experience?

If you can reference anything like one of the above, that’ll be a great addition to the body of your essay. You can use these experiences as a springboard to get into a discussion of why this field interests you. Perhaps you really fell in love with lab research or spent a lot of time digging through archives of 19th century writers–in any case, you’ll want to highlight those specific experiences as you explain why you want to pursue your chosen field. 

Not sure what kind of “why” explanation will really stand out to admissions committees? The best way to be sure is to work with someone who has experience wowing admissions committees themselves. That’s why we always recommend getting a bit of professional help from one of our many Ivy League essay tutors. 

• Get into “how”

Some schools ask for this explicitly, and some don’t, but as long as you have the space, you should address how the specific academic resources of the school you’re applying to can help you pursue your interests. 

This part doesn’t have to be long, but it is an important thing to add. Think about it this way: each school you apply to wants to know that you’re actually interested in going there. The best way to prove that is to show that there are specific, unique elements of that school that appeal to you. 

What kinds of things can you discuss here? The best resource is likely going to be the website of the specific academic department for your major. There, you can find specific information on:

• Research programs
• Work/internship/coop opportunities
• Unique curricular offerings
• Unusual minors or specializations
• Service learning opportunities 
• Thesis/honors opportunities

Each school will naturally be a bit different, so this part of your essay should change from application to application. While you don’t want to go overboard here, showing that you’ve done your research into a particular school will go a long way to showing them you actually want to attend their university. And that can make a huge difference. 

Things to avoid

While you’re doing all this, there are a few things you should avoid writing in your essays. Some of the Don’ts we list below are just too cliche; others are actually red flags for college admissions committees. 

Don’t: 

• Reference money as a primary reason for your major choice.
• It’s fine to be undecided! But even then you should discuss what kinds of things interest you and why. 
• Randomly name-drop professors or classes as the university you’re applying to. 
• Forget to include a specific story, question, or hook to get the reader interested.

Though the steps here might seem simple, they can be astoundingly hard to pull off in just 250 words or less, which is usually the word count for this kind of supplemental essay. But if you can thread the needle and do everything listed above on this kind of essay, it can make a huge difference for your application. 

Most people don’t treat the supplemental essays as if they were particularly important, but they absolutely are: each college has put time and resources into coming up with these supplemental essay prompts because they want to see what you have to say. 

If you’ve read this guide carefully, then it’s time to start drafting! If you want to ensure that you’re writing the kind of essay that can get you into a top tier school, however, it often pays to get a second opinion. Our college essay experts have helped thousands of students get admitted into their dream schools, and are ready to help you do the same as soon as you’re ready. 

For over 50 examples of real supplemental essays that got students into schools like Princeton, check out our free collection of sample supplemental essays below–many of these are in response to the “Why major?” prompt!

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How to Write a Why Major Essay When You're Undecided

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Learn how to tackle questions about your major, even when you’re not sure what you want to study!

Hale Jaeger will provide an in-depth walk through of what prompts like these are asking and how to show off your skills, goals and passions. He’ll also dive into how to approach these questions when you’re undecided on a program of study and what you should avoid including. Finally, he’ll open the floor for Q&A, answering your questions about the Why Major essay.

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Should I Apply to College as Undecided?

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Shravya Kakulamarri in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered:

When it makes sense to apply undecided, focus on your interests, what are the best schools for undecided majors, make a decision within your first or second year, build a balanced college list.

If you’re interested in multiple fields, and you’d like to give yourself the option to explore them without committing to required courses, we recommend applying undecided. When you commit to a major, you will need to start taking required courses. Exploring courses without a major declared will help you explore fields of interest without being stuck to the requirements of a particular major.

Although you might be applying undecided, it’s still a good idea to have a general idea of what you’re interested in going into the whole application process. This will help you write the “why college” application essay , or even like the “why major” essay . If you’re applying undecided, you don’t necessarily need to designate a specific major, but you’ll want to explain how your extracurriculars and high school experience translate to interests in majors that you might be interested in pursuing in college. This will also help you narrow down which subjects you would explore in your first few semesters.

If you do decide to apply to a college as undecided, look for schools that will allow you the freedom and flexibility to explore a variety of courses. We’ve actually narrowed down 10 great colleges for undecided majors to help you with this decision. Read this post to view the full list ! 

The more time you spend deciding on that major, the less time you’ll actually have to pursue it. This might require you to stay extra time at a college. Sticking around for more time will be expensive and also not too much fun, and you definitely wanna graduate with your friends! So, try to lock down that major earlier. 

Regardless of whether you are applying undecided or not, it’s important to have a balanced college list to maximize your chances of getting into a good fit school. A student should apply to 8-12 schools, with 25% being safety schools, 40% target schools, and 35% reach schools.

Your chances of acceptance are what make a school a safety, target, or reach. We’ve made it easy to figure out which schools fall into these categories with our free Admissions Chances Calculator . This tool will let you know your odds of acceptance, and give you tips on improving your profile.

You can also search for schools based on preferences like location, major, cost, and more. Give it a try to get a jumpstart on your college strategy.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Applying to College as Undecided Major: Pros, Cons

Don't declare a major on your college applications if you haven't fully researched that academic concentration.

When to Apply to College Undeclared

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In many cases, colleges and universities will not require applicants to declare a major as a high school senior.

The applications for many colleges and universities allow students to specify an intended major, though this is not required – and not all students ultimately choose to do so. In most cases, choosing to begin college as an undecided major or electing to declare a major before arriving on campus depends on an individual student's situation.

Below are several scenarios for and against applying to college with an undecided major.

When to Apply to College as an Undeclared Major

If you have a competitive college concentration in mind, your academic profile – your GPA, in other words – will be key. If your high school GPA does not reflect your full potential and you would like to use your first year of college to correct this issue, it likely makes sense to apply as an undeclared major. This is a particularly good idea if your high school GPA is weak in the major's core field or fields.

Engineering is one common major where this strategy may apply. Because engineering offers strong career prospects, it can be a popular concentration. Thus, universities can be highly selective in which applicants they accept to their engineering schools . If you lack a history of high school success in science and math classes, it may be best to take college-level courses in STEM fields before you apply to this major.

As long as the required courses for your intended major are not so numerous that they need to be started during your freshman year, consider this approach.

The second and perhaps most important – and more common – reason to opt against declaring a major on your college application is if you are truly undecided. It is not worth choosing a concentration before you have fully researched your potential field.

This is the position that Danica Todorovic, a junior at North Park University in Chicago, found herself in. "When I applied to college, I was still unsure of what I wanted to study," Todorovic wrote in an email.

If your outlook matches Todorovic's, consider this question: Have you learned enough about multiple majors and compared them so that you can make an informed decision? Do you know what the requirements are for each of your prospective majors ? Have you researched the career options that are available to students who are majoring in this field?

If you cannot answer "yes" to all of these questions, it is likely best to apply as an undeclared major. Doing so enabled Todorovic to "explore my options and take a few classes before I picked my major," she says. Now an education major, she recommends that undeclared students choose a major in the first semester of their sophomore year.

Even if you are certain about what you wish to study, and even if you have provided carefully researched answers to the questions outlined above, it may be best to wait. Remember that no matter how certain you are now, your mind may change, especially once you arrive at college and are exposed to its seemingly endless array of course offerings. Do not paint yourself into a corner if there is no compelling reason to do so.

In many cases, though not all, your college or university will not require you to declare a major as a high school senior. You may even be encouraged to wait until the end of your sophomore year of college to choose an academic concentration.

Brian Galvin, chief academic officer at Varsity Tutors, suggests that students who are nervous about applying undeclared remember the following: "College admissions departments do not expect every 17-year-old to have their life and major completely and specifically mapped out. A great many students who declare a major before applying end up changing that major at least once before graduating, so an applicant who demonstrates curiosity and the desire to broaden horizons and try new passions is being honest, candid, and vulnerable – qualities prized in application essays by admissions staff."

When to Apply to College as a Declared Major

There are some situations in which it may benefit you to declare your major on your college application . While simply being sure about what field you wish to major in does not necessarily mean that you should declare early, if that major requires a specific set of courses from freshman year on, then it is in your best interests to declare. Doing so on your application could allow you to begin those requirements as soon as possible.

It can also limit anxiety. Todorovic acknowledges that she "felt rushed to choose a major" and to complete its requirements. She subsequently worried that she might not graduate on time .

Sometimes, declaring a major during the application process can offer you benefits that you would not receive were you to wait a year or two to declare. If, for example, your major has a number of required classes that are offered infrequently, declaring your major early on may gain you automatic admittance to these courses. If nothing else, it will provide you with more attempts to register over your four years.

Applying to college with a specific major in mind may also qualify you for additional forms of financial support , such as department-specific scholarships, special freshman housing or professional development opportunities that are open only to majors. If you have made up your mind about your major, and the college to which you are applying offers a perk that makes it advantageous to declare early, selecting a major on your application makes sense.

Declaring a major has one final use. As Galvin states, "The 'danger' – we'll use that word loosely here since it's by no means imminent peril – in applying without a declared major is that it can synchronize with other factors that 'just blend in,' leaving an applicant looking somewhat generic."

A major can be a way to distinguish yourself and your portfolio, but that major must be one you feel passionate about and that you have built an academic and extracurricular history around.

If you have not, heed Galvin's advice: "A declared major is only one way to add specificity to your application, so not declaring isn't a major cause for concern – but you need to find a way to capture the admissions staff's attention."

Put another way, deciding whether to declare a major on your college application should not be taken lightly. But do not, under any circumstances, declare a major on your application when you are not sure about it.

Tags: education , students , college applications , college admissions , college majors

About College Admissions Playbook

Stressed about getting into college? College Admissions Playbook, authored by Varsity Tutors , offers prospective college students advice on Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses, SAT and ACT exams and the college application process. Varsity Tutors, an advertiser with U.S. News & World Report, is a live learning platform that connects students with personalized instruction to accelerate academic achievement. The company's end-to-end offerings also include mobile learning apps, online learning environments and other tutoring and test prep-focused technologies. Got a question? Email [email protected] .

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Should I Apply To College As An Undecided Major?

Madeleine Karydes

Lead admissions expert, table of contents, big decision.

Stay up-to-date on the latest research and college admissions trends with our blog team.

Applying to colleges admittedly undecided about your major is actually way harder than centering your application around a focused intended major. You’re signing up for a very challenging strategy: persuasion about your unbridled potential, while squashing suspicions that you’re aimless.  Should you apply to college as an undecided major?

I’m Not Looking For Commitment Right Now…

N ot sure what you want to major in? That’s okay. You don’t need to declare your major as a freshman; and, most universities have flexible major-switching policies, even if you change your mind after you have declared your major. You are not bound to the major you write about wanting to pursue in your application essay. The department does not admit you: the entire university does.

If you’re thinking about writing about how you’re undecided as to a major, I really don’t recommend it.   A lot of applications are major unspecified, and that indecision can signal indifference or a lack of focus to an admissions officer… when you’re trying to prove a point that you have focused ambition. So, applying without an intended major muddles your message. Universities can be even more selective when choosing among major undecided applicants, so you only hurt your own chances. At a top 100 university, your extracurricular profile often needs to be 30% more rigorous than a student with a major in mind in order to have a similar shot at admission.  

Remember, you’re not bound in any way to the major you write about wanting to pursue. You can explore courses as a freshman and sophomore on the campus, and then make an informed decision about the major to which you’d like to commit. Recommendation #1: pick a tentative major and write about that in your essays.  

So How Do I Pick a Tentative Major?

Pick a major that makes sense with your extracurriculars. There must be a reason you’re in Science Olympiad, Chemistry Club, and attended Chem-A-Palooza. Okay, it might not be quite that obvious. Find a central theme that ties your extracurricular leadership together. Perhaps you’re involved with building houses for low-income families with Habitat for Humanity, and you volunteer translation services at the ER. The common thread there isn’t construction, or linguistics; it’s advocating for underserved populations. One potential major that would be on brand with those activities would be Public Policy. 

Public Policy is a major that teaches you to evaluate policies, understand the politics around policies, and help formulate future legal policies that grant a better quality of life to a greater number of people. Public policy coursework involves economics, political science, law, philosophy, ethics, and social psychology. The undergrad major prepares graduates for entry-level jobs in policy research and organizations, non-profits, and serves as a great foundation for graduate degrees like law, public health, economics, political science, education, among others. 

When selecting your tentative major,   think about the career you may want someday and work backwards. Since you’re equally passionate about many academic disciplines, select one, and discuss how your strengths in other accompanying disciplines would give you an edge on that selected path. For example, if you’re interested equally in math, psychology, and business, you could select Economics as a major -marrying math and social psychology – and discuss how your entrepreneurial interests would help you research business growth and labor markets.  

Guess What? I Still Want to Apply Undecided

Alright, if you insist, here are some tips for how to go about that. It’s a lot more work, though, so be forewarned. 

You’ll need to demonstrate aptitude across the board in a wide variety of academics. Therefore, you’ll need to submit SAT IIs and AP/IB tests in humanities, math, science, a foreign language, and/or social sciences.

In addition, you’ll also need to package sort of tiered sub-brands (as opposed to just 1 brand) of 2-3 activities that align with one of each of the following tracks: humanities, math, science/ social science.  

You’re basically signing up to demonstrate the variety of your skills and equal aptitudes among subjects as a jack of all trades, rather than building a singular focused brand around one intended major.  

Things to Highlight as an Undecided Applicant

Extracurriculars:.

• Definitely highlight leadership and awards.
• Your message needs to be that you’re equally great at everything. You’ll need to demonstrate leadership in 70% of your extracurricular activities, plus state and national level awards.
• You’ll need to demonstrate commitment to the same extracurriculars over long periods of time, not a lot of jumping around or switching gears. Self-driven projects show initiative and decisive action, so you’ll need these to counterbalance your confessed indecision.
• You’ll need to demonstrate equal passion for several different academic disciplines, not equal indifference to all of them.
• Your undecided essays need to convince an admissions officer that you could be successful in any academic department, not just one. Since most majors on a given campus require good writing skills, demonstrating strong writing is a must.
• Your essays should persuade an admissions officer that your indecision stems from your profound and equally distributed passion for vastly different academic fields. They’re all so equally intrinsically intriguing to you that you haven’t yet committed to just one.
• You could write about your hopefulness to find an interdisciplinary major on campus that harnesses your competing strengths. If the university you’re applying to allows you to design your own major, you could express intrigue in that option and explain how you might integrate studying your varied interests.  

General advice

Once more, I don’t recommend applying as an openly undecided student. You’re signing up for a challenge that requires even more finesse than applying as a decided applicant. You’ll need to juggle convincing an officer of your unbridled potential, while quelling concerns that you’re unfocused.  However, these are a few tips to boost your application if you do decide to apply as an undecided major.

Need more activities to help you build academic variety? Check out our database of resources and services here at Empowerly. We have created a database of summer programs, internship, research opportunities, and much more.  

Working with an Empowerly counselor can help you position your personal brand and story in the most outstanding way, allowing your admissions potential to fully set sail.  

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College Admissions

One of the biggest—and most difficult—decisions college applicants must make is what they want to major in . As a result, many students struggle to pick a major when they’re filling out their college applications. That’s why many schools give you the option to select “undecided” or “undeclared” on your app.  

But will being undecided affect your ability to get into your dream school? If you’re wondering, “Is it bad to put undecided on a college application,” then this article is for you . We’ll explain the following:

• What an undeclared major is
• What putting “undeclared” on a college application means
• The implications of applying undeclared at different schools
• How selecting “undeclared” can affect your college application
• Whether you should put undeclared on your application

So let’s get started!

If you're not sure what an undeclared major is, it's pretty simple: it's just a designation for students who aren't sure what they want to major in! 

What Is an Undeclared Major?

An undeclared major (sometimes also called an “undecided” major) refers to a student who has not yet declared an actual major. Your major is the degree that you will focus your studies on throughout college and, if all goes according to plan, graduate from college with.

So if you decide to declare a nursing major , then you will take most of your college courses in nursing and graduate with a bachelor’s of science in nursing degree. 

It’s important to understand that the phrase “undeclared major” doesn’t mean the same thing as being a specific type of major, like an English or business major. Here’s why: you can’t major in undeclared! Being undeclared is just a fancy way of saying you’re not sure what you want to major in. 

Being an undecided college major is temporary--no one makes it to the end of college as an undeclared major . Somewhere along the way of your college career, you’ll decide on a major that you do want to study, and you’ll change your major from “undeclared” to something specific, like engineering , or psychology, or education. 

The big takeaway? An “undeclared major” is simply a placeholder that many new college students use as they decide on what they truly want to major in and pursue as a career. When you start out as an undecided college major, you’ll be able to take a range of courses in different subject areas, think about which ones interest you, and choose a major when you’re ready—most likely sometime during your freshman or sophomore year. 

What Does “Undeclared” Mean on a College Application? 

College applications typically ask applicants to select a major of study when filling out their application. Depending on the school, the language used for this portion of the application can vary. Many schools might simply ask applicants to indicate an “intended” degree of study, while others may provide the option to select a few different majors as being of potential interest.

One option most schools (though not all, as we’ll discuss later) provide on their application is the option to be “undeclared” or “undecided.” When a student selects “undeclared” on this part of the application, it means that the student is applying to be accepted as a student to the university without a specific degree of study. 

So, does putting "undeclared" on an application impact your admissions chances? Read on to find out! 

So Is It Bad to Put Undecided on Your College Application?  

Yes and no.

If you’re a strong applicant with great test scores, a high GPA, fantastic essays, and good extracurricular involvement... then it probably won’t impact your admissions chances very much. Most schools evaluate your application as a whole, so your declared major is just one part of the overall picture. 

However, if your application is weak, or if you’re not sure how to tackle being undeclared in your admissions essays, then it can be a problem. It may make you seem indecisive, or like you aren’t committed to contributing to the university’s community. In the case of a weaker application, passion for your future major or career can tip the scales in your favor. 

The big thing to remember is that admissions counselors know that college students can--and do!--change their majors. So instead of panicking about being undeclared, put that energy into making your application as strong as it can be! 

So, should you apply to college as an undecided student? In most cases, being undeclared won't negatively impact your application. 

Should You Put “Undeclared” on Your College Application?

So if you’re not sure what to major in, should you put “undeclared” on your application, or should you just choose a major then switch once you’ve enrolled? 

Most admissions experts agree that in most cases, there’s no harm in putting “undecided” on your college application. Admissions counselors know that choosing your major is a tough decision, so they’re not surprised when some students just aren’t sure about what they want to study. And we promise: you won’t be the only applicant who has “undecided” on your college application. 

In fact, putting “undecided” on your application might even be a good thing if it’s the honest answer. It can show admissions counselors that you’re honest. Admissions counselors respect honesty, so there’s no shame in being open about not knowing what you want to major in! 

There are only two situations where being undeclared on your application might hurt you. The first is if your admissions essays and your decision to be undeclared don’t match up. Here’s what we mean: if you choose “undecided” as your major, you don’t want to submit an admissions essay all about how you’ve wanted to be a veterinarian since you were a little kid! Admissions counselors will wonder why you’re still iffy about your major, and they may start to question if you’re being authentic and honest. 

The other instance where putting “undecided” on your application might not be a good thing is if you’re thinking about choosing a major that requires you to be admitted into that program as a freshman . For instance, some universities make students fill out separate application supplements for nursing or business school as part of their application packets. That means you have to be admitted into the university and into that particular program. 

In these cases, your school might not allow you to transfer into these programs after you’ve been admitted. That doesn’t mean being undeclared impacts your admissions chances...but it might limit your degree options after you start attending school. 

How Does Being “Undeclared” Affect Your Choice of Major?

How selecting “undeclared” will affect your college applications depends on the policies of the schools you’re applying to. There are three main types of schools to look out for if you’re thinking about applying undeclared: schools that don’t allow undeclared students, schools that limit undeclared students’ future majors, and flexible universities.

Schools That Don’t Allow You to Put “Undeclared” on Your App

In order to enroll at this type of school, you’ll have to declare a major on your application no matter what. In the application, you’ll likely be asked to explain why that major is the right choice for you, or what skills you’d bring to the table as a student in that major. 

While there aren’t many schools that don’t accept any undeclared applicants, an example of one school that uses this policy is the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign . This university requires all applicants to declare a first and second choice major on their application, and “undeclared” isn’t an available option.

Keep in mind that even if you do declare a major on your application, every school will let you change it after you’re admitted . So don’t panic! Changing majors is a pretty common occurrence, so you’re not stuck with what you’ve put down on your application. 

Schools That Limit “Undeclared” Students’ Future Majors

The good news is that most schools do accept undeclared majors! But not all schools allow undecided students to major in anything they want later. Some universities may place limits on the majors that undecided students can eventually major in .

For instance, in order to be a business major in the University of Pennsylvania’s prestigious international business degree program, you must apply to the program as a freshman. You can’t apply undeclared and then transfer into this degree program later on. While schools have this policy for a variety of reasons, a common one is to prevent students from flooding the program by switching their majors later. 

So here's the bottom line: “limiting” schools might allow you to apply as an undeclared major, but you may not have access to every degree program when the time comes to declare your actual major.  

Flexible Schools

Schools that have more flexible policies on students’ decisions about what to major in will allow students to select “undeclared” on their application and encourage undecided students to major in anything they’d like after admission. 

Flexible schools are also common, and they usually have special resources for students who aren’t sure what they want to major in. For example, some schools may require undecided students to take a special course designed to help them pick a major. Other universities may offer special counseling services or exploratory programs specifically tailored to undecided students’ needs. 

Flexible schools often design their core curriculum to help students settle on their majors . One way they might do this is by requiring all students take courses from multiple schools and departments. That way you can get a taste of the different fields of study available to you. (It’s not uncommon for students to take a core class in a field they don’t know much about, only to fall in love with it!) Additionally, some flexible schools may require all freshmen students to take the exact same core courses, so undecided students won’t fall behind as they make their decision. 

Also keep in mind that some universities are so flexible that they make every student come in undeclared ! (We’re looking at you, University of Chicago .) These schools want students to make informed decisions about their majors once they’re enrolled...which also takes the pressure off you when you’re putting together your application. 

Students with undeclared majors may find their college experience is slightly different when it comes to advising or scholarship opportunities. 

How Does Being Undeclared Affect Your College Experience?

There’s one main impact of applying and entering college as an undecided major that is pretty much consistent across most universities, though: when you apply undeclared, you’re usually assigned to your university’s College of Arts and Sciences. Undeclared majors usually end up in the College of Arts and Sciences because it’s often the biggest college on a university campus with the most majors. 

When you’re undeclared, you’ll sometimes be assigned an all-university advisor who can help you figure out what you want to major in. Not all schools have these special advising departments, though. Depending on the school, undeclared students may end up assigned to a random advisor in a specific college. That doesn’t mean you’re stuck in that college, though! Regardless of who your advisor is, their goal will be to help you pick a major that you love. 

Being undeclared can also impact the way you build community in your (eventual) department. Students who go in with a major often meet students who share their major as freshmen, and they can start forming relationships with one another. If you declare your major later, you might find that getting involved in departmental activities (like clubs and study groups) is a great way to get connected with other students. 

The last area undecided students may be affected in is scholarship opportunities. Many colleges and departments offer specific scholarships for their enrolled students. For example, Oklahoma State University offers multiple departmental scholarships based on your major . If you go in undeclared, you won’t be able to apply for these until you have chosen a major. 

4 Tips for Choosing a University as an Undeclared Student

If you’re thinking about going to college as an undeclared student, there are a few additional things you should take into consideration when choosing a university. Our four tips will help you pick the right school for you!

Tip 1: Pay Attention to University Size

Some students or parents might be under the impression that if a student wants to start as an undecided college major, they should go to a larger university so that they have more degree options. 

But this isn’t always the best idea. Here’s why: sometimes large universities don’t have the capacity to offer one-to-one, intentional academic advising to students. Students who start college undeclared might need guidance and support from advising experts as they try to decide what to major in. Smaller colleges may be better equipped to offer personalized mentorship to undeclared students , who might instead fall through the cracks and put off making a good decision about what to major in at bigger schools. 

Tip 2: Think About Your Potential Majors

While you may not know your specific major yet, you probably have a general idea of what type of things you’re interested in. Even if you're not sure what you want to do now, you still want to choose a school that offers excellent programs in your potential areas of study. 

For example, maybe you know you want to study some type of science. In that case, look for universities that have strong programs in a variety of fields , like biology, chemistry, and physics. 

You can also look for universities that have strong colleges within the larger university structure . (Remember how we mentioned there are lots of colleges on a university campus? That’s what we’re talking about here!) For example, most universities have dedicated colleges for engineers. If you’re thinking about being an engineer, you can look at engineering schools’ rankings and pick a university based on that specific college’s reputation.  

Tip 3: Research Whether You’ll Be Able to Transfer Into Your Program

Like we mentioned earlier, very competitive programs may require you to apply as part of your freshman application packet. In those cases, you won’t be able to transfer into them once you’ve enrolled at the university as an undeclared student. This is really important to be aware of, especially if you’re thinking about majoring in one of those limited degrees! 

Here’s what we mean: if you’re thinking about majoring in business, then you’ll want to go to a school that will let you transfer into the department a later date. Don’t apply to a school like the University of Pennsylvania, where the business degree programs require you to be admitted as a freshman! If you do, you may end up in a situation where you have to either a) stay at your university and choose a different major, or b) transfer to another university so you can major in the subject you want. 

In these instances, it’s better for you to declare your major on your application and then switch it later. That gives you more flexibility, and it ensures you won’t have to deal with the heartache of missing out on your dream major because of admissions issues.

Tip 4: Research the Resources for Undeclared Students

Just because a school lets you go in undeclared doesn’t mean it’s a great fit for you. Do a little research and s ee what options undeclared students have at your potential universities. Look for specific advising programs for undeclared students designed to help them pick their future majors. Also check to see if your school offers “undeclared courses” that show you your options and provide support for you as you make your major choice. 

These resources will vary by school, so it might make more sense to go to a university that will coach you through declaring a major! 

Are you still thinking about declaring a major on your application? Then make sure you read through our how-to guide on choosing a major for your app.  

Picking a major is just one part of your college application. You’ll also have to write admissions essays, too . This expert article can help you write amazing essays that will make admissions officers take notice.

Need some extra help picking colleges to apply to? We’ve got you covered. This guide will help you narrow down your choices so you’re only applying to schools that are right for you. 

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

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Still Undecided? Here’s How to Pick Your College Major

It’s the conversation-starter that everyone uses once they know what college you’ll be attending.  “What do you plan on studying?” or the similar, “What are you majoring in?” or even “How often do you look for college homework help ?”

For some people, the answer is a quick and easy “Psychology” or “Finance” or “Political Science.” But, for other people, the question brings with it a moment of unease, of uncertainty. “I’m not sure yet,” they say. “I’m undecided.”

Ah, undecided. While it may seem scary to you right now, fear not. First of all, remember that you’re not alone. According to surveys, an estimated 20 to 50 percent of students enter college as undecided, and an estimated 75 percent of students change their major at least once before graduation. So, while you may feel alone as an enrolled, undecided student, you’re far from it. Plenty of your peers who think that they know what they want to study will change their minds, maybe multiple times, before settling on a discipline.

And second of all, you shouldn’t worry because I am here to help you choose a major, or at least get you on the right path to picking one, with these five questions you should ask yourself when going from undecided to declared.

1. What are you passionate about?

Surprised passion is the first topic on this list? You shouldn’t be. How could you spend four years at college studying a field that doesn’t even interest you? So, if you’re not sure what it is that you’re interested in or passionate about, I suggest you take a look back at the courses you liked in high school and the clubs and activities you spent your time doing.

For some people, like myself, that passion is evident throughout high school.  For example, I took several writing electives, spent a summer as an editorial intern for a magazine, applied to and enrolled in a journalism program and joined the literary magazine clubs at school all before applying to college. When it was time for me to select an intended major, I decided to go with English, since it was something that, based on my high school interests, I was definitely passionate about. But, even if I had applied undecided, once I got to college, English would probably have been the first major I would have explored.

Obviously, not every student will have a singular academic passion that is evident from their resume and high school course-load. In fact, most students probably won’t. But it can be a good starting point for students who are at college and don’t know what they’re interested in. Or, if you’re at college and really enjoy a particular activity or class, consider majoring in a related field.

Love writing for the school paper? Maybe an English or Journalism major is right for you.  Enjoy that Spanish class you took to fulfill a requirement? Consider pursuing a major or minor in the language. Keep an open mind; you’ll find something you’re passionate about, even if you don’t know what that something is by the end of your freshman year of college. Which leads me to my next question to ask yourself.

2. Have you explored your options?

If you have no idea what it is you want to study—or even if you think you know what your passion is—exploring your options is crucial to making the right choice when it comes to picking a major. Many colleges help you out with this by assigning students general requirements. These frequently can be broken down into a math requirement, a writing requirement, a language requirement, etc., but range greatly from school to school. These force you to take classes that you may not have considered taking before or that push you outside of your comfort zone.

Of course, not every university has general requirements, so the onus is on the individual students to take courses that are diverse. Especially your freshman year, you should take a variety of courses across different disciplines.

So you never did any activities relating to chemistry but always liked the subject? Give it a try at the college level. You think an economics course sounds like it could be cool even though you never had anything like it in high school? Go for it. Always been more of a humanities kid but like the sound of studying computer science? Why not test it out with an introductory course. Classes may be difficult. You might ask yourself, “Who will write my college essay ?” but if you start with 1000-level courses, you should hopefully not encounter too many problems.

After giving yourself a little taste of different, potential majors, you can begin narrowing down the diversity of your courses and begin to focus more on a specific major you may be interested in and taking more in-depth courses for that major to see if it’s your thing.

3. Do you have a vocational goal?

What’s important to remember here is that there are many careers for which a number of undergraduate majors would be appropriate. You plan on going to law school and becoming a lawyer? Feel free to pursue any relevant passion as an undergraduate student: Political Science, English, History, Economics, Philosophy, etc. Interested in going pre-med? You have the freedom to major in Biology, Chemistry, Physics or even Liberal Arts, depending on the institution you plan on going to for medical school.

You can also think about it the other way around. For example, I knew I loved writing, so my English major makes sense for several writing careers I could pursue down the road—being a journalist, working in publishing, editing, etc.  If you know you want to do something long-term that’s very quantitative and involves numbers, consider exploring majors like Math, Economics, Physics or other calculation-heavy disciplines; if you like Engineering, you can work with major companies like Steelbay Exchange .

4. Are you good at this subject?

Your skill in the subject shouldn’t necessarily be the main determining factor on whether you pursue a major in that field, but it is a relevant piece of information to consider when making your decision. For example, if you decide to become, say, a Creative Writing major, but you are not a strong writer and do not receive positive feedback in class or high grades on stories you write with multiple professors, then it might mean that you should try your hand at a different subject.

Likewise, if you’re having trouble picking a favorite subject to major in but know that you’re really good at Computer Science and it’s something, among other subjects, that you enjoy, it might be a good idea to consider majoring in something you already have proven skill in. And besides, people tend to enjoy doing things that they are good at anyway.

5. Why do you want to be in this major?

Reflecting on why you want to pursue your potential major is an important step in going from undecided to declared. You should research the major at your university. It is also a good idea to get in touch with professors in your chosen department and with students who have declared that major as their own and can provide some further insight.

Imagine what you would do with that major. Think about if you would enjoy writing a thesis paper or doing a project on the subject. Consider why you like the subject and what you like about it. Picking a major is an important decision; hopefully by reflecting on why you want to study a potential subject, you will find some clarity and be able to go from undecided to declared.

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Lexi Lieberman, University of Pennsylvania

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Choosing a Major: A Simple To Understand Guide for Undecided Students

Find your degree.

Is choosing a major keeping you up at night? Making you wake up in a cold sweat? Don’t panic! Choosing a major can be overwhelming for high school juniors, seniors, and even first-year college students. But in this comprehensive choosing a major guide, we’ll lay out the steps that will show how to decide on a college major. 

Exploring Personal Interests and Passions

What do you love doing? What topics or activities grab your attention and make time fly by? Think about your hobbies, things you’ve volunteered for, and even dreams you had as a kid. Maybe you’re into understanding how the body works, or you enjoy playing with gadgets or drawing cool creatures. Your interests can help you figure out what majors might excite you.

But how do you figure out what you’re passionate about? Start by asking yourself a few questions:

• What activities do you get lost in? Maybe you spend hours coding, writing stories, or studying animals. These are clues about what you’re good at and what you enjoy.
• What problems do you really care about solving? Are you into protecting the environment, fighting for fairness, or exploring new technology? These values can guide you toward majors that match your interests.
• What did you dream of doing when you were younger? Even if being a professional astronaut isn’t realistic, the things you dreamed about (like exploring, science, or adventure) can still help you choose a major.

Here are some ideas to get you thinking even more:

• Hobbies : Are you a musician, athlete, gamer, artist, or someone who loves to tinker with stuff? Think about how these hobbies could connect to college subjects, like music, sports management, game design, art, or engineering.
• Volunteer experiences : Did you feel happy helping out at an animal shelter, teaching younger kids, or organizing events in your community? These experiences show interests in things like animal care, teaching, or planning, which could match majors like veterinary science, education, or communication.
• Childhood dreams : Did you dream of being a doctor, architect, lawyer, or even a superhero? Even if those careers changed, the interests behind them—like helping people, designing things, or fighting for what’s right—can lead you to majors that fit, like medicine, architecture, law, or social justice.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer here! It’s about discovering what you’re passionate about and finding majors that make your college journey really exciting.

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Researching Potential Career Paths

Your ideal major doesn’t have to lock you into just one job. Every major offers a bunch of different job options. Look for a field that matches what you care about and enjoy, and you’ll find lots of career paths that fit naturally.

But with so many options, how do you begin? Don’t stress, we’ve got some ideas:

• Look online : Check out websites like the Occupational Outlook Handbook, O*NET OnLine, and College Board BigFuture. They have tons of info about different careers, including what they involve, how much they pay, and what skills you need.
• Go to college fairs : These events are full of helpful info. Talk to people from different colleges, see what programs they offer, and ask about jobs you can get with those majors.
• Talk to professionals : Connect with people who work in fields you’re curious about. Ask them about their jobs, what they do, and what they like about it. Websites like LinkedIn or going to professional events can help you meet the right people.
• Think beyond job titles : Don’t get stuck on specific job titles. Look for fields that match what you’re into. For example, if you like communicating, you might enjoy jobs in journalism, marketing, public relations, or teaching.

Remember, researching is something you’ll keep doing as you explore different majors and interests. Your career goals might change along the way, and that’s okay! Stay open to new ideas and enjoy the journey of figuring out what’s right for you.

Taking Introductory Courses in Various Fields

Your first two years in college mostly include introductory classes. Sign up for a few that catch your eye, even if they’re not what you’re used to. You might find out you’re good at something you never knew, or remember how much you love a subject you forgot about. Trying out different classes isn’t about finding the “perfect” major right away. It’s about getting info to help you decide.

Comprehensive Major Choosing Tips : Think of your first-year classes as:

• Discovery adventures : Try out classes like biology, psychology, literature, or coding. You might discover talents for things like dissecting frogs, understanding people’s behavior, writing cool stories, or making websites.
• Passion sparkers : Remember things you loved as a kid, like dinosaurs, ancient history, or space? Classes in things like paleontology, archaeology, or astronomy could remind you of those passions and lead you to new interests.
• Decision-making helpers : Don’t think you know what you like until you’ve tried it! Trying different beginner classes helps you learn about fields you might not think are interesting at first. You might surprise yourself by loving stats or getting into philosophy.
• Try new things : Don’t stick to subjects you already know. Explore new stuff and see what you like. You might find talents you didn’t know about.
• Hear different ideas : Each class gives you a new way to look at the world. Trying out different subjects makes you think in new ways and helps you learn how to think critically.
• Enjoy the journey : Trying beginner classes isn’t about finding the perfect major right away. It’s about getting info, finding what you like, and making a smart choice about your college path.

Remember, trying stuff out is important! Enjoy the chance college gives you to explore different subjects and find what you’re really passionate about.

Consulting Academic Advisors

Your academic advisor is like your personal guide through college! Make sure to meet with them regularly. Talk to them about what you’re interested in, what’s worrying you, and what you’ve found out from your research. Your advisor can give you personalized advice, suggest majors and classes, and even introduce you to professors who can help you in specific areas. They’re experts who can help you navigate the big world of academics.

Here’s why meeting with your advisor is so important:

• Sharing what you’re exploring: Tell them about your interests, what you love, and any worries you have about picking a major. Show them what you’ve found out and what you hope to do with your career. That way, they can give you advice that’s just right for you.
• Getting personalized help: Your advisor knows a lot about the classes and programs at your school, as well as what the professors are good at. They can suggest things that match your strengths, goals, and how you like to learn.
• Finding cool stuff you didn’t know about: They might suggest majors or classes you never thought of, opening up new possibilities for your academic journey.
• Meeting the right people: Need to talk to a certain professor in a field you’re interested in? Your advisor can help you get in touch with them, so you can learn more and get advice from experts.

Remember, your advisor is there to help you, not judge you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, share your worries, or ask for help. The more you tell them, the better they can help you figure things out. And if they’re not helping – ask for another advisor! 

Shadowing and Interning

Do you want to get a sneak peek into different jobs? Shadowing and internships let you do just that! When you shadow someone, you follow them around for a day, asking questions and seeing what their job is really like. Internships let you do more hands-on stuff, like working on real projects and learning practical skills. These experiences can help you figure out what you’re into or find new interests you never knew you had.

Think of shadowing like this:

• Get behind the scenes : Watch someone in a job you’re curious about. Follow them around, ask about what they do, and learn about their challenges and rewards. You’ll get a better idea of what the job is really like and what skills you need.
• Reality check : Is being a coder as cool as it sounds? Does being a lawyer involve more paperwork than you thought? Shadowing helps you see if your ideas about a job match up with what it’s actually like.
• Get inspired : Watching someone love what they do can be really motivating. Shadowing might make you even more interested in a field or show you something new you want to try.

Now, let’s talk about internships:

• More than just watching : you’re actually doing stuff! Internships let you:
• Use what you’ve learned : Put your school knowledge into practice in a real job.
• Learn practical skills : Get better at things like talking to people, working in teams, solving problems, and managing time.
• Make connections : Meet people who work in the field you’re interested in. They could help you out later on or give you advice.
• Start early : Don’t wait until your last year of college to try shadowing or internships. Start looking early on, even in your first or second year, so you have more time to learn.
• Take charge : Do your research, reach out to people or companies in fields you like, and show you’re excited to learn. Being proactive can help you find cool opportunities.
• Think about what you’ve learned : After each shadowing or internship, think about what you liked, what you didn’t, and what surprised you. This can help you figure out what you want to do next.

Getting out there and trying new things can change your life. Take the chance to shadow and intern, and you might find the perfect major and career path that really excites you.

Choosing your major is a big step. Even if you’re not sure what to do with your life, there are a lot of things you can do in high school to get ideas.  • Think about your personal interests and passions – Are you not sure what you like? Take a personality quiz like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or Strong Interest Inventory. While not definitive, these tests can offer insights into your strengths, preferences, and potential career paths. • Research future career paths – Attend workshops or information sessions offered by your school. These events can provide valuable insights into specific majors, career paths, and resources available to you. • Consult academic advisors – Besides going to your school counselor, there are many professional academic advisors who know the current job market and potential.  • Shadow or intern with a job you’re interested in – you can use online platforms and resources like LinkedIn, Idealist, and your school career center or counselor to find shadowing and internship opportunities relevant to your interests. Students who choose a major aligned with their interests report higher GPA’s, greater academic satisfaction, and are more likely to graduate on time. So, it’s crucial to prioritize your passions!

It’s not a bad thing to be undecided – 20-50% of freshmen enter college as undecided, depending on the school, and as much as 75% of students change their major! Many people don’t realize what they want to do until they get into college and explore.  One of the best things you can do for undecided students major selection is take your freshman courses seriously. They’re not just hurdles to jump through – they can tell you a lot about yourself.  Talk to your professors and classmates in introductory courses. Ask questions, discuss course content, and gain insights into specific fields. Their perspectives can be invaluable in shaping your understanding of different academic disciplines. Keep an open mind! Your interests and goals may evolve throughout your college journey. Embrace the flexibility to explore new paths and remember, your major is not a life sentence. It’s a stepping stone on your exciting academic and professional adventure!

There’s no such thing as a “best major,” but there is a best major for you! Start by doing some research. Check out websites, go to college fairs, and talk to people who work in fields you’re interested in. Learn about what they do every day, what skills they need, and where they work.  • Use your skills : Think about what you’re good at, no matter what major you choose. Skills like problem-solving, talking to people, working in teams, and using technology are useful in lots of jobs. • Think about your life outside of work : Consider things like how much you want to work, if you’re okay with traveling for your job, and what kind of lifestyle you want. • Stay open-minded : You might discover new fields you didn’t know about before. Research can lead you to exciting jobs you never thought of. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that over 60% of jobs created between 2020 and 2030 will require a college degree. So, researching careers before choosing a major is an investment in your future!

No, colleges won’t think badly of you if you apply without knowing what major you want. They understand that some students are still figuring things out. It’s more important to show that you’re curious and willing to explore different options. Colleges have resources to help the undecided students career path. Choosing a major is a journey, not a destination. Don’t be afraid to explore, experiment, and even change course if needed. Embrace the process, utilize the resources available, and trust your inner compass. With dedication and open-mindedness, you’ll find the major that unlocks your unique potential and sets you on a path to a fulfilling future!

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA

Admit-a-bull // official admissions blog, is it better to apply as undecided or with a major.

By Haley DeLeon | Last Updated: Aug 3, 2022

If you’re struggling to pick a major to mark on your college applications, you’re not alone.

An estimated 20-50 percent of students enter college undecided, and up to 75 percent report having changed their major at least once. After all, not many high school students know exactly what they want to do with the rest of their lives.

However, there are pros and cons to declaring a major or entering college undecided. Here’s what you need to know about applying as an undecided major.

What Is an Undecided Major?

Typically, college applications provide a space where you indicate your first choice of major, and some even provide room for your second and third choices. An undecided major means that you have not yet declared an actual program or degree in which you will focus your studies throughout college. On your college application, this means that you are applying for acceptance as a student to that university without a specific degree of study.

Being an undecided major is temporary — eventually, you must decide on a major that you want to study and change from “undecided” to a major your college or university offers. Typically, you should select a major by the end of your sophomore year so you can start focusing on your program-specific classes in your junior and senior years.

For example, USF allows students to register for up to 36 credit hours before they must declare a major. USF also offers first-year students the Exploratory Curriculum (ECM), which provides students ample time to discover career fields and academic disciplines. During this time, students focus on completing their general education requirements and try out diverse classes that apply to their core curriculum credits.

Elena Brazee, an environmental biology major at USF, started her college career in the ECM program. “Being ECM gave me access to lots of advisors that helped me interpret personality inventories,” she said . Otherwise, “I would have been forced to choose a major even though I was not 100% about it.”

Will Applying Without a Major Hurt My Chances of Admission?

Applying undecided doesn’t automatically hurt your chances of admission. The impact your choice of major has on your chances of admission depends on the university in question and your application as a whole.

When Does It Make Sense to Apply to College as Undecided?

In some cases, being undecided can be the best choice for your individual circumstances. Here are a few scenarios in which applying as undecided may make the most sense or even be to your advantage.

If You’re a Strong Applicant With Diverse Interests

Perhaps you were the star biology student and orchestra concertmaster at your high school, and you don’t want to limit your variety of interests to one area. If you have a high GPA, strong test scores, extensive extracurricular involvement, and excellent application essays, applying undecided will most likely have little impact on your admissions chances.

If Your College Concentration Is Competitive

Suppose you are interested in a traditionally competitive major, such as engineering, and your high school GPA does not reflect your full potential. In that case, it may be advantageous to apply as undecided. This is especially the case if your high school GPA is weak in that major’s core fields. Just make sure you research the opportunities for transferring into this major later in your academic tenure to determine if this is a viable course of action.

If You’re Truly Undecided

The most common reason students apply undecided is that they are genuinely undecided. It is usually not worth choosing a major before thoroughly researching your options.

According to U.S. News & World Report , you should ask yourself the following questions before committing to a major:

• Have you learned enough about different majors and compared them to make an informed decision?
• Do you know what the requirements are for each of your options?
• Have you researched the career options available to students majoring in this field?

If you can’t answer these questions, then applying as undecided may be the best course of action.

When Does it Make Sense to Apply to College as a Declared Major?

There are a few scenarios in which it might make the most sense to declare a major:

If You Know What You’re Interested In

This is the obvious reason to have a declared major as a college applicant. If you’ve had a longstanding interest or specific passion for something, it makes sense for you to choose that as your major. That doesn’t mean you’re stuck with it forever — it just means that you’re interested in that subject enough to pursue further education.

If You’re Seeking Specific Scholarships or Programs

If you’re interested in an accelerated program, such as a 4 + 1 combined bachelor’s/master’s program, then declaring that major may be suitable because it might have additional requirements, such as an essay, to apply.

In addition, having a specific major can help you qualify for scholarships that are limited to certain fields, like STEM. Examine scholarship opportunities in fields you may be interested in to see if this is a potential reason to declare a major in an area where you have a solid academic history.

When the University Requires It

Some universities require that students apply to specific majors, though they may allow them to mark a second or third choice. If you’re not admitted to a competitive program, you can make undecided your second choice and still have a chance of being admitted. Please keep in mind that if you are transferring to another university, you may need to declare a major based on how many credits you are transferring with.

Should I Just Choose a Major?

Short answer, no. Long answer, it depends. Applying undecided may be the best fit in some cases, such as the scenarios listed above. After being exposed to the near-endless number of courses at college, you may change your mind about what you thought you might study. There’s no reason to needlessly restrict yourself if you aren’t already homed in on what interests you, and even that might change regardless of how certain you are.

Pros and Cons of Applying Undecided

One of the benefits of applying undecided is that you’re allowing yourself the time to explore your interests. College is a wonderful, exciting time of discovery that comes with a lot of adjustment. Instead of diving first into a specific field of study, starting college without a major allows you to take courses that may spark your interest. When you start college as an undecided major, you’ll be able to take the entry-level classes required of all students and explore different subject areas that interest you to get a better idea of what your program of study will be.

Another benefit of applying undecided is that you’ll expose yourself to a various people in your range of classes, including professors and peers who may help you figure out what you’re interested in. Either way, broadening your network and making new connections is always valuable for college and beyond.

However, a potential con of applying undecided may be a perceived lack of focus and specificity in your college application. In addition, not choosing a course of study may exclude you from certain scholarship opportunities that are only available to students majoring in specific fields.

Pros and Cons of Applying with a Major

Applying with a major demonstrates your interest and passion, which can be valuable at highly selective universities looking to build a balanced incoming freshman class. In addition, it may help you qualify for certain scholarships and other opportunities, as mentioned above.

Declaring a major can also show admissions counselors that you are a serious applicant who is aware of that college’s academic offerings and how they align with your future goals. You can demonstrate your research and commitment to that specific area of study and how it would support your interests and future career in your application.

However, choosing a major you’re not genuinely interested in can make your application disjointed. College admissions officers are interested in authenticity. If your extracurricular activities and academic coursework do not back up your major, it may ring false.

In addition, you might force yourself to choose something pre-emptively and take courses that don’t particularly interest you, causing you to miss out on taking a diverse set of courses to identify your real interests.

Whatever decision you make, it’s comforting to know that you’ll be able to find the right major after exploring different classes and activities during your freshman year of college.

About Haley DeLeon

Haley DeLeon is a content developer with extensive experience in the higher education sector. She is passionate about creating content that helps students and their families throughout the admissions journey.

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Five Reasons It’s Okay to Be Undecided About Your Major

So you’re exploring college destinations, and you’re talking to friends and family about where you might go and what you might do. Let us guess, you’ve already been asked at least a dozen times, “What is your major going to be?” And by the time you choose a college and get to campus in the fall, that number will likely soar much higher.

It’s a totally normal question to ask. Your friends and family care about you and are interested in your plans. It is also totally normal to have no idea what you want to pursue as your major. In your college search, you’ll hear this referred to as being “undecided,” and being undecided is great! In today’s blog post, we’ll go over why being undecided is not only okay but can even be a benefit on your college journey.

You’re in good company.

It may seem like your friends know exactly what they want to do and what their major will be when they get to college. However, in 2018, the National Center of Education Statistics reported that more than one in three students changed their major at least once within three years of enrollment. Even though you’re an adult and off to college, you’re still young. You will grow and change in the coming years in ways you probably haven’t imagined.

You can (and should) explore your academic options.

Most general education programs are designed to help you explore multiple academic areas. Use these early semesters in college and this array of topics to explore new areas and test some of your interests. Meet faculty and talk about the subjects you find interesting and possible careers. By staying open-minded, you might find your passion in something you never imagined.

Pressure’s off.

Without a major, there is less pressure to make something work that just doesn’t. As a successful student, when you put your mind to something, you’re likely to work hard and stay after it. That’s a great quality to have, but if you’re in the wrong major, you can feel pressure to stick it out even when you do not enjoy that major as you thought you might. If you’re undecided, you free yourself from that potential pressure.

You’ll be building important skills.

Employers are looking for certain skills, regardless of major. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) has identified eight competencies that prepare college graduates for a successful transition into the workplace, such as critical thinking, leadership, global fluency, and more. These skills highlight the value of liberal arts education at Meredith. We refer to these as 21st-century skills, and you’ll gain them through interdisciplinary work in your general education requirements and again woven throughout whichever major you choose.

You will have lots of support to help you make your decision.

You’re not alone in the process of deciding on a major. Meredith offers many resources to help you along the way. The Office of Academic Advising , the Office of Career Planning , Success Coaches , StrongPoints® staff, your faculty, and others are here to answer questions, work on resumes, find internships, and guide you toward a major that truly suits you.

Undecided Major? Here’s Why That’s OK

For High School Seniors: 3 Steps to Apply for Financial Aid at Meredith

Meredith’s Guide to Navigating Student Loans

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CAS Supplement Essay + Undecided Major =

<p>Hey guys, I’m applying ED to the College of Arts and Sciences and I’m working on the essay right now… I’m applying undecided though, so it’s a little difficult to write about all of my intellectual passions and their evolution, etc. when I’m capped at 500 words… Is anyone else in the same boat? Or has anyone out there written this essay as an undecided major before? Any advice would be appreciated. Also, if there’s anyone out there with some experience who’d like the read my first draft, I gladly send it to you. Here’s the prompt for the essay: “Describe your intellectual interests, their evolution, and what makes them exciting to you. Tell us how you will utilize the academic programs in the College of Arts and Sciences to further explore your interests, intended major, or field of study.”</p>

<p>When I applied to CAS, I indicated that I wanted to be an English major, but I was truly undecided. I used my essay to explain all of the academic areas I was interested in - English/journalism, sociology, and Asian studies - and why I thought Cornell was best suited for my interests. If you can pinpoint a few different subjects that you might want to pursue, that should be fine. </p>

<p>Also, remember that you’re not locked into anything. I’m currently planning to major in psychology and minor in Information Science, which isn’t exactly what I wrote in my supplement essay, haha.</p>

<p>Be aware, that your intended major on your application can be changed later. Applying as a major in X and then changing your mind is perfectly acceptable and happens to many/most Arts and Sciences students. (I applied for CS and then decided to do physics.) So, you always have the option of writing your essay about a possible major. </p>

<p>Anyways, you obviously can’t tell your entire life story in 500 words, but you can tell a story in 500 words. Don’t worry if you leave details out. Just try to tell a story about that topic, but don’t include every detail on everything.</p>

<p>Your intended major can be changed in the summer before you even enroll.</p>

<p>If there’s anything you’re even remotely passionate about, even if you aren’t sure about majoring in it, put it down and write about it.</p>

<p>I was going to put chemistry, but I was too lazy to write another essay, so I changed it to bio. lol</p>

<p>Thanks for the advice guys! Ok, I tried out another essay, this time I focused on possibly being pre-med or pre-dental, but I know you can have any major and have these concentrations, so I left it undecided and talked about why the CAS is a good fit for my undecided major… whereas before I was just all over the place and unspecific… Would anyone be willing to read what I’ve written and tell me what they think? I’d really appreciate it!!</p>

<p>Pre-med is not a major, and I would strongly discourage writing about it unless you have an extremely convincing essay.</p>

<p>I read a stat somewhere that said Cornell produces more doctors than any other school. Whether it’s valid or not, I’m not sure, but I can say for certain that there are, pardonnez mon fran</p>

<p>Is pre-dental under the umbrella of pre-med? Because I haven’t met anyone here yet that’s pre-dental (compared to 5321635265326 pre-meds and even a couple of pre-vets)</p>

<p>I think pre-med/vet/dent are all rolled up into the same pre-health umbrella. Just that pre-dent or pre-vet is a little (or maybe even considerably) less common.</p>

<p>i would recommend just writing an enthusiastic essay about diverse fields you’re truly interested in to show that you fit in the CAS instead of picking a major you’re not sure you want or one that doesn’t exist at all</p>

<p>I know pre-health sciences aren’t majors, which is why I said I still chose to be undecided but talked about my interest to be pre-med or pre-dental, etc. I spend the majority of my essay talking about how I’d like my major to be non-related to chem or bio, etc. so I could have a balance and explore other subjects, but I wasn’t specific at all… when I tried to be I went way over the word count… I hate the 500 word limit… Is anyone willing to read my draft, please?? Also… would it be a bad idea to pick a major you haven’t had courses in? I was considering economics, but I haven’t had an economics course (yet! I will next semester… before I apply).</p>

<p>The 500 word isn’t very strict, from what i remember. They don’t count, they just eyeball it. So don’t go over around 750, or else it is obvious</p>

<p>Even 750 is probably too much. Keep your essay as close to 500 as possible.</p>

<p>you know economics is just as popular as pre-med lol. Pick a more obscure one.</p>

<p>^dont pick obscure just because it is obscure. admissions officers can easily pick up on forced bs essays. just go for what you are passionate about, even if that is pre med. they cant possibly reject you just because you want econ or bio like a lot of other students. that is a common misconception. and do you really like econ? you see yourself in the health related field so i dont know how it is relevant…</p>

<p>Also, you can use the essay as a time to express excitement about some particular programs in the college. </p>

<p>For instance in my application, I essentially said, I like doing things, and I’ve done some things (list things), but I don’t know exactly what things I want to do in the future. And then I shifted and was all like, but thats exactly why I like cornell, cause the place is so big and has so many programs that I can see myself being interested in (list some) that I know theres a place for me at the university. </p>

<p>If you look at the prompt, you’ll notice that this is basically the essay they are looking for. A sort of where are you going/where have you been sort of deal. They are perfectly aware that a large portion of people in your position don’t know exactly what they want. They just want to be sure you know why you are even applying to the school. If you can convince yourself of this, then you should be able to convince the school.</p>

<p>Good luck! If you need additional help feel free to pm.</p>

<p>Thanks everybody, I really appreciate the help! I think I’ve got my essay… I discussed being interested in med/dental but that the CAS perfect for me because I really I want to explore everything they offer and pick the major that’s really best for me. And honestly, that’s not far from the truth and I feel more comfortable with that than making up an interest. Again- thanks everyone and I hope to be among you next fall!!!</p>

<p>Best of luck! :)</p>

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2024 Outstanding Graduates: Congratulations to our top students

For 38 years, The News has saluted a group of Michigan’s best and brightest high school students in the spring of their senior year.

Partnering with CATCH — Sparky Anderson’s Charity for Children — we call it the Outstanding Graduates program.

It is an honor to share the stories of these remarkable young people and to consider that Michigan will benefit from their future endeavors, and the endeavors of so many of their friends and classmates.

The top seniors were chosen from a field of outstanding nominees. Public and private high schools in Michigan were invited to nominate students in each of 11 categories. Students were selected on the basis of grades, test scores, honors, community involvement and a demonstrated ability in one of the academic areas. In a special category called “Against All Odds” students were recognized for succeeding despite a physical hardship or special, personal or family challenges.

Final selections were made by panels of judges that included teachers, counselors and other academic specialists. The judges told us of their high regard for the many nominees and the difficulty in narrowing their choices.

Our thanks go to all of the principals, counselors and teachers who took time to nominate these students. Thanks also go to the judges who spent many hours selecting the finalists.

This is the 39 TH class of outstanding high school graduates honored by The News. Many of our early nominees are now well established in successful careers and raising children that may well be honored themselves someday soon. We salute their special achievements and extend congratulations to all of Michigan’s graduating seniors in the class of 2024.

Gary Miles, Editor and Publisher

Against all odds

Miriam taleb.

High school: Northville High School

Parent: Leena Aldebiat

College I plan to attend: University of Michigan-Dearborn

Major: Business administration

Career plans: Law and business

Most influential teachers: Mrs. LaRocca

Achievements:

• Over 1,500 hours of volunteering at Brookdale Senior Living. I have built strong connections with the seniors who do not have anybody to talk to
• Landed a law internship and have gained invaluable knowledge and experience
• Won No. 1 Best upseller in Michigan and No. 3 nationally for Phoenix Theatres

A quote about myself: "If you want something you’ve never had, do something you’ve never done."

Sponsor: Arrow Strategies

Ella Mae Anderson

High school: Forest Park

Parents: Dale and April Anderson

College I plan to attend: Bay College

Major: Radiography

Career plans: Complete MRI Associate's Program and work at a children’s hospital

Most influential teachers: Mrs. Debra Smithson

• The ability to be a dual enrollment student
• Setting remarkable standards throughout high school career despite cancer diagnosis
• Honor roll student while attending in-person classes
• Being selected as a Detroit News Outstanding Graduate
• Being enrolled in an MRI program
• Finishing my high school classes and graduating while in remission
• Volunteering in and around my community
• Selected to paint multiple murals for local businesses
• Participating in 4-H and other extracurricular activities
• Being able to make positive changes and foster meaningful relationships with peers

A quote about myself: "The magic you are looking for is in the work you’re avoiding."

Sterling Gooden

High school: Renaissance High School

Parent: Crystal Gooden

College I plan to attend: Michigan State University

Major: Kinesiology

Career plans: Athletic trainer in the NFL or NBA

Most influential teachers: Coach White and Coach JP

• Honor roll 10th, 11th and 12th grade
• 2x City championship volleyball 11th-12th grade
• 2x City championship basketball 10th-11th grade
• Final four basketball 11th grade
• Varsity award 10th-12th grade

A quote about myself: "Don't just exist. Live."

Jerrod Burke

High school: Chandler Park Academy High School

Parents: Jabari Anderson and Aliessa Burke

College I plan to attend: Grand Valley State University

Major: Radio broadcasting with minor in photography

Career plans: Photographer

Most influential teachers: Astyn Frye

• Youth Leadership 20 under 20 Award
• Geoff Miller Luminary Award
• OSHA 10 certification
• Lean Six Sigma White Belt certification

A quote about myself: "Leadership is not about being appreciated, it’s about responsibility; it doesn'tmatter how the burden is heavy, it matters how you carry it."

Runners-up: Yasin Ahmed, Manuella Fagbedji, Arly Fitzgerald, Emily Francis, Isabelle Haio, Sreetarapriya Andra, Madison Loken and Judah Abusalah

Judge: Dr. Gail Strickland, director of special services, Westwood Community School District

Jane Fall-Lakatos

High school: MICA

Parents: David Lakatos and Doni Fall

College I plan to attend: Michigan Technological University

Major: Environmental engineering and sound production with a music minor

Career plans: Tackle global environmental issues and form a small production studio focused on supporting early-stage musicians and podcasters

Most influential teachers: Homeroom teachers Dr. Crawford, Mr. Frankovich and Mr. Noble, as well as Coach Derek Delzer and Judith Teasdle

• Entering college at age 16 after graduating summa cum laude
• Being accepted and receiving scholarship offers at every university I applied to
• Receiving the Leading Scholars Award, Presidential Award and Excellence Award from MTU among others
• Summiting a 17,740-foot peak in the Chilean Atacama Andes at age 14
• Three Rocky/Central Junior Alpine Racing Championships GS, SL, DH, AC with Pinnacle Alpine Racing
• Two U.S. Fencing National Championships-Sabre, three-time Region 2 Gold Champion and qualified for 2024 U.S. Fencing National Championships-Sabre — three divisions after a 2.5-year hiatus with Renaissance Fencing Club
• Visiting all 50 states as well as over 70 national parks, reserves, forests, and monuments
• Rehabilitating homes in impoverished neighborhoods in Pontiac with my parents
• Completing Michigan Music Festival Series as a solo violinist with all superior scores 95-100, senior piece Lalo’s "Symphonie Espagnole"
• Performing for multiple seasons with Oakland Youth Symphonies, Oakland University Community Music, and sitting as a session violinist with Summit County Strings Symphony for 2023 Ullr Festival

A quote about myself: "If it’s not hard, it’s not worth it."

Sponsor: Detroit Lions

Gabriella Miller

High school: Grosse Pointe North High School

Parents: David and Lea Miller

College I plan to attend: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Major: Undecided

Career plans: Undecided

Most influential teachers: Jonathan Byrne

• Winning a Division II State Championship in soccer as a junior
• Soccer All-District, All-Mac Honorable Mention, All-Region Honorable Mention
• Senior year soccer captain and first-year field hockey MVP and selected for Senior All-Star Game
• MIPA student journalist staff member and winner in the category of Digital Media
• Passing the AP chemistry exam, scoring a 4, and earning college credit
• Getting admitted into the University of Michigan
• Being chosen for Norsemen Tide, the Grosse Pointe North student section leader
• Student council vice president for three years
• National Honor Society member
• Working with special needs kids though Kids On The Go, Unified Basketball, and Kids NeedOpportunities to Socialize

A quote about myself: "Even when life gets tough, just looking for the positive perspective with a smile can be unstoppable. Life is far too short to let worrying consume you. Let optimism be your drive, and let its contagious impact help inspire others."

Runners-up: Sophie Owens, Erin Armstrong, Ece Uyulur and Ryan McEvers

Judge: Daren Tomhave, assistant sports editor, The Detroit News

Makayla Blackwell

Parent: Paula Wilson

College I plan to attend: Wayne State University

Major: Nursing

Career plans: Nurse with BSN, business owner and volunteer in my community

Most influential teachers: Dr. Rayven McMurray

• Accepted into Wayne State's Direct Nursing Program (15 out of 5,000)
• Over 300 hours of community service
• Obtained my nursing assistance licenses at the age of 17
• Full tuition paid for in all my top 5 schools
• Attended the No. 1 high school in Detroit
• Graduating with honors at Renaissance High School
• First-generation college student
• Mentored at local middle schools
• Volunteer at DMC Sinai Grace Hospital
• A proud member of Wayne State's TRIO Upward Bound Program

A quote about myself: "The most beautiful thing you could wear is confidence." — Marilyn Monroe

Sponsor: Henry Ford Health

Piper Morrison

High school: Fraser High School

Parents: John and Ami Morrison

Major: Allied health studies

Career plans: Physician assistant

Most influential teachers: Mrs. Marti Van-I

• Top 10 world finalist for the MRC Partnership event at the 2023 HOSA International Leadership Conference
• Awarded Med Health Science Student of the Year at Fraser High School for 2023-24
• Organized six blood drives through the Red Cross
• Member of National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society
• Helped train entire Fraser district staff in Stop the Bleed
• First three-time president of HOSA at Fraser
• Helped Fraser achieve designation from the American Heart Association as an MI Heart Safe School
• Four-year member of peer-to-peer and a participating mentor in an adaptive PE class
• Third place in HOSA States for extemporaneous writing as a 10th grader and first place in HOSA States for Medical Reserve Corps partnership as an 11th grader
• Maintaining a 4.103 GPA while playing sports, being deeply involved in numerous clubs and consistently having a job since ninth grade

A quote about myself: "Success at anything will always come down to this: focus and effort, and we control both." — Dwayne Johnson

Sponsor: NFP

Runners-up: Leah Feldhausen, Rebecca Roberts, Tamara Nadeau and Linnea Way

Judge: Van Momon, M.D., retired senior staff physician, Department of Pediatrics, Henry Ford Health

Connor Kalkanis

High school: Detroit Country Day School

Parents: Steven and Laurel Kalkanis

College I plan to attend: Harvard College

Major: Government

Career plans: Neurosurgery

Most influential teachers: Mr. Michael Cappelletti

• President of the student body
• Editor-in-chief of school newspaper the Day Times; national gold medals for excellence in newspaper production from Columbia Press Association and American Scholastic Press Association
• Founded Masks for Meals, a nonprofit to aid food-insecure Metro Detroit families during COVID; raised $15,000 and also generated 60,000 meals
• Finalist at the International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF); co-author of manuscript awaiting publication in Oncology Reports
• Coolidge Senator of the Presidential Coolidge Scholarship (chosen as 1 of 100 students nationwide)
• Three-time Statewide Champion in Forensics (oratory category)
• Second place National Award from the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) Essay Contest
• University of Chicago Book Award for "a top junior with highest academic and extracurricular achievement," awarded by vote of DCDS faculty
• First Division Ratings at MSBOA Solo & Ensemble Festival for Piano (2021, 2023); first State Division for Sax Quartet (2023)
• First place state champion speaker in St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America; national alternate in Northeastern United States and first place in Michigan

A quote about myself: “Apply what you have, and whatever you may chance to be doing, do it with all your might.” — Cicero

Sponsor: The Detroit News

Sophie Hanawalt

High school: Seaholm High School

GPA: 3.978 unweighted, 4.702 weighted

Parents: Jennifer and Edward Hanawalt

College I plan to attend: University of Notre Dame or Georgetown University

Major: Global affairs and journalism

Career plans: Investigative journalist focused on international human rights and a professor of global affairs

Most influential teachers: Ms. Stacey Olsen

• Editor-in-chief of school newspaper, the Highlander, for two years, helping to rebuild the paper after the pandemic
• Organized a free journalism camp for local middle schoolers with the Highlander’s editorial board, teaching 20 students the basics of news, opinion, sports and entertainment
• Part of a team of student journalists that investigated our district’s sudden, large budget deficit. Our work was profiled in The Detroit News
• Organized a local chapter of March for Our Lives with a friend and have served as co-president ever since. I have also served as a state lead for rallies and other organization events
• Co-president of Seaholm’s French Club for the past two years
• Involved with my school orchestra for all four years of high school
• Helped form an orchestra quartet in sevent grade, and have been volunteering to play in nursing homes ever since. Received the Birmingham Youth Assistance Youth In Service Award twice, as well as the President’s Service Award
• Co-captain during my senior and junior seasons on the Seaholm Varsity Girl’s Cross Country Team
• A member of Seahom’s English Department Advisory Board
• A leader within Flex, Seaholm’s interdisciplinary honors English and history program

A quote about myself: "I can’t wait to bring informed and inclusive storytelling to all of my future pursuits!"

Runners-up: Logan Field, Jessica Sarrach, Billy Roberson and Jordan Fabirkiewicz

Judge: Walter Middlebrook, foster professor of practice, Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, The Pennsylvania State University

Language arts

Victoria mccabe.

High school: Grosse Pointe South High School

Parents: Brian and Margaret McCabe

Major: Public policy

Career plans: Trial lawyer

Most influential teachers: Harry Campion

• MSVMA Classical Solo and Ensemble two-time state qualifier
• AP Scholar with Distinction
• Recipient of the Grosse Pointe South Choir Leadership Award
• Created over 200 blankets for local women's shelter Pregnancy Aid
• Company manager of both the junior varsity and varsity South Choirs
• Editor of Grosse Pointe South’s Looking Glass Magazine

A quote about myself: “If you can’t convince them, confuse them.” — Harry S. Truman

Sponsor: Hire Road

High school: Detroit Country Day Upper School

Parents: Hanho Yun and Yeonseung Lee

College I plan to attend: Princeton University

Major: Economics

Career plans: Corporate lawyer

Most influential teachers: Ms. Beverly Hannett-Price

• Recipient of First-Class Distinction in 2023 Achievement Awards in Writing from the National Council of Teachers of English
• Honor council chair
• Spectrum Literary Magazine editor-in-chief
• EUREKA! Academic Journal editor-in-chief
• 2024 Coca-Cola semifinalist
• Recipient of Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society from the National Council for Social Studies
• Recipient of Princeton Book Award
• Junior Cum Laude Society inductee
• Recipient of Presidential Volunteer Service Award (over 350 total hours)
• Varsity tennis

A quote about myself: "Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value." — Albert Einstein

Sponsor: CATCH

Runners-up: Arts Hannah Redman, Aiden Wolfson, Paul Kaminski and Aria Dwoskin

Judge: Mary M Hall-Rayford, retired English educator

Mathematics

Timothy mathew.

High school: Troy High School

Parents: Thomas and Vini Mathew

College I plan to attend: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Major: Mathematics and computer science

Career plans: Professor and researcher

Most influential teachers: Mr. Carl Rizzi

• Research Science Institute Scholar
• Third place International Science and Engineering Fair — Robotics & Intelligent Machines
• Four-time American Invitational Mathematics Exam qualifier
• Fifth place HOSA — Medical Math — at International Leadership Conference
• Coach of Boulan Park Mathcounts Team — first place at States (2023, 2024)
• First place — Technology Student Association (TSA) States — Coding
• President of Math Club, Coding Competitions Club, and Hack Club at Troy High School
• Royal Conservatory of Music Level 10 Piano Certification with Honors
• Most Wholesome Student at Hampshire College Summer Studies in Mathematics
• 36 ACT in ninth grade

A quote about myself: "I found it is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay — small acts of kindness and love.” — Gandalf

Sponsor: OneStream Software

Isha Singhal

Parents: Sharad Singhal and Ruchi Saxena

Major: Computer science

Career plans: Software engineer

Most influential teachers: Mr. Kinney, Ms. Lowes, Mr. Cole and Mrs. Foldesi

• National Merit Scholarship finalist
• Wrote and published a research paper about the detection of DDoS attacks with machine learning models
• CyberStart America 2023 National Cyber Scholarship recipient
• HOSA ILC 2021-Health Informatics finalist
• Science Olympiad Nationals 2022 Codebusters Award recipient
• MSVMA 2023 Solo & Ensemble States Top Rank of 1 for Solo Vocalist
• Organized a citywide used eyeglass donation drive through the Northville Lions Club
• Captain of Northville Science Olympiad Team
• Business Professionals of America SLC SQL Database Fundamentals

A quote about myself: "Be kind, because everyone you meet is going through a struggle.” — Sigrid Nunez

Sponsor: AAA Life Insurance Company

Runners-up: Kenji Farrell, Vikram Goddla, Dyllon Denton and Joyce Liang

Judges: Marianne Srock, retired mathematics consultant, Macomb Intermediate School District; Scott Block, mathematics consultant, Macomb Intermediate School District

Performing arts

Trinity chen.

GPA: 4.0 unweighted, 4.61 weighted

Parents: Anna Tantisuwanpol and Tom Chen

Major: Biomedical engineering

Career plans: Engineering and business

Most influential teachers: Ms. Bowen

• First chair of the MSBOA 2024 Honors Chamber String Ensemble, nominated as anOutstanding Soloist for Outstanding Soloist Competition
• Two-time MSBOA Solo & Ensemble Perfect Score at State Level, two-time MSBOA Honors Festival Honors Orchestra
• Three-time MSBOA All State Full Orchestra (High School)
• Two-time AIME qualifier, AMC Honor Roll and Achievement Roll award winner
• Varsity women’s golf: team captain, four-time state qualifier and All-Academic, top 10 placement at regionals
• Leadership: Student council vice president, concertmaster of DCDS Honors String Orchestra
• National Merit finalist and National Merit Corporate Scholarship winner
• Presidential Scholars Program candidate
• First place at Science & Engineering Fair of Metro Detroit; fourth place at Michigan State Science Fair
• Scholastic Writing Awards: two Gold Keys for memoirs, two honorable mentions for poetry

A quote about myself: “Walk with a purpose!” — Coach Dan Luft

Viraj Nautiyal

High school: Ernest W. Seaholm High School

Parents: Shweta and Shashank Nautiyal

College I plan to attend: Brown University

Major: International and public affairs

Career plans: Health care policymaker

Most influential teachers: Mrs. McKinney

• Two-time NSDA Debate National Qualifier
• National Merit Finalist Scholarship recipient
• Raised thousands of dollars as National Honor Society president prioritizing children’s health and education
• Founded a bingo fundraiser giving out science kits for prizes and donating money for children’s education
• Wrote and illustrated a children’s picture book named "Cal's Courageous Quest," capturing the signs and coping mechanisms of mental health challenges
• Drum major for Seaholm marching band and conducting throughout the football season
• Ate every item on the Taco Bell menu
• Watched every SpongeBob SquarePants episode
• Model U.N. president winning multiple awards at conferences held at Michigan State and University of Michigan
• Acted as Aaron Samuels in Seaholm's production of "Mean Girls" as a first-year actor

A quote about myself: "Never let success get to your head and never let failure get to your heart." — Aubrey Drake Graham

Runners-up: Samuel Melkonian, Malaak Jadallah, Benjamin Graham and Aubrey McCurdy

Judge: Garret Ernst, executive director, Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association

Austin Hinkley

High school: Big Rapids High School

Parents: Scott and Sarah Hinkley

College I plan to attend: Undecided

Major: Mechanical engineering

Career plans: Energy engineering and innovation

Most influential teachers: Mrs. Susan McCullen

• Chemistry/physics research on particle modeling using simulation under Dr. Luis Rivera, Ferris State University, 2023
• Coca-Cola and GE Reagan Scholar semifinalist, 2023
• Heisman and Michigan High School Athletic Association Scholar Athlete winner for Michigan, 2023-24
• College Board National Merit Program Commended Student Award
• College Board Rural and Small-Town Recognition Award
• Michigan High School Tennis Coaches Association All-State Academic Team, 2021, 2023; All-State Academic Senior Award, 2023
• Michigan High School Athletic Association State Tennis Tournament — doubles state qualifier, 2020-23, and state quarterfinalist, 2022 and 2023; four top 10 team state finishes, 2020-23; fourth place state team finish, 2022
• Michigan Tennis Coaches Association First Team Division 4 All-State Doubles, 2022
• Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association Honors Band, 2020-23, 16 Division 1 ratings at District and State Solo and Ensemble
• Big Rapids High School Varsity Tennis — set school win records for doubles wins and all-time wins, 2023

A quote about myself: "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known." — Carl Sagan

Sponsor: Delta Dental

Sophia Baron

High school: Berkley High School   

GPA: 4.4 (cumulative, weighted)

Parent: Susan Baron

College I plan to attend: University of Michigan

Major: Neuroscience (pre-med)

Career plans: Pharmacology research or dermatologist

Most influential teachers: Mrs. Olsen and Mrs. Francis

• Research intern at Detroit Receiving Hospital in the Surgical Trauma department
• Michigan delegate for a two-week national program in Washington, D.C., through CISV (an international peace organization)
• USA delegate for an international program in the Netherlands with CISV
• Received a sportsmanship recognition award from the OAA (Oakland Athletics Association) in junior year and awarded best sportsmanship on team by the coach
• Captain of varsity tennis team
• Generations of Promise class of 32
• Involved with UMATTER, as a participant, board member, and ultimately co-host of the program's culminating event
• Learned to ride a bicycle to play the part of the witch in the "Wizard of Oz" school play at age 5
• Not being deterred from horseback riding after being thrown off when younger
• Getting accepted into the University of Michigan!

A quote about myself: "Never be so kind, you forget to be clever, never be so clever, you forget to be kind." — "Marjorie" by Taylor Swift

Sponsor: Children's Foundation

Runners-up: Anna Wathen, Grace Wang, Thomas Hays and Mattea Muscat

Judge: Elizabeth Secumski Reinhold, science consultant, Macomb Intermediate School District

Visual arts

Lauren schnieders.

High school: Berkley High School

GPA: 3.86 (non-weighted), 4.2 (weighted)

Parents: Wendy and Kevin Schnieders

College I plan to attend: Savannah College of Art and Design

Major: Illustration

Career plans: Illustrate storyboards in the film industry, incorporate art skills into cinema

Most influential teachers: Mr. Weingarden and Ms. Coburn

• Scholastic Art and Writing Awards SE and Thumb Region, two Gold Keys and an Honorable Mention
• Received a 5 on my AP 2D Studio Art portfolio
• Captain of varsity tennis at Berkley and play #1 doubles
• Member of the National Society of High School Scholars, as well as National Honors Society
• Voted "Future Picasso" for senior awards
• Chosen to paint a mural for a classroom at my school
• Youth elder of my church
• Designed the logo for BHS Girls Varsity Tennis, which is displayed on ourspirit wear
• Designed a mural for a national company in their corporate office
• Illustrated a children's book with my grandfather

A quote about myself: "I am a balanced person, I know what I want for the long run and work hard for it — but I also make sure to enjoy my life along the way."

Sponsor: J. Douglas Clark

Olivia Lunsford

Parents: Johnny and Lisa Lunsford

College I plan to attend: College for Creative Studies

Career plans: Visual development artist and character designer at an animation studio

Most influential teachers: Ms. Odette Duke and Mr. Brian Colding

• Renaissance High School’s 2024 valedictorian
• Gold Key award in Southeast Michigan and Scholastic Art Awards
• Silver Key award in Southeast Michigan and Scholastic Art Awards
• Honorable Mention in Southeast Michigan and Scholastic Art Awards
• Art Exhibition at the DIA Award
• 2023 Michigan Chinese School Speech Storytelling Contest trophy

A quote about myself: "Smart is not something you are, smart is what you get."

Sponsor: Strategic Staffing Solutions

Runners-up: Emily Gayed, Elizabeth Yoo, Jenna Lawlis and Terry Fears

Judge: Antone Amye, graphic designer, City of Detroit, Media Services — Communications and Creative Services

Vocational/Technical

Jack schwab.

Major: Electrical engineering

Career plans: Electrical/software engineer

Most influential teachers: Christina Vrzovski

• Founder — @HelixMods YouTube Tech Platform: Acquired 113,000 subscribers producing 37 videos amassing 12 million views, building and engineering computer keyboards and mice
• Produced videos with YouTube creators with 1 million-plus subscribers
• YouTube Silver Creator Award (Personal) — Recognition for 100,000 subscribers
• YouTube Silver Creator Award (Manager) — For managing the @Flowaze channel and helping it grow 150% from 40,000 to 100,000 subscribers; oversaw marketing, editing, script writing, and analytics
• 1520 SAT score
• 4.0 GPA at Macomb Community College while mastering undergraduate-level math courses including calculus 1, calculus 2, calculus 3 and linear algebra
• Property maintenance technician — experience doing HVAC installation, electrical, plumbing, flooring, siding, roofing, construction, landscaping and general maintenance of rental properties
• Recipient of the Technology/Business Student of the Year Award from the Fraser School District
• Completed Harvard's CS50: Introduction to Computer Science course, earning an edX Verified Certificate
• Built a Python Web Scraping app to automate rental home water bill accounting for landlords and predict water leaks via usage spikes.

A quote about myself: "Modding is in my DNA."

Sponsor: Wolverine Solutions Group

High school: Avondale High School

GPA: 4.4375

Parents: Amit Jain and Nidhi Agarwal

College I plan to attend: University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Career plans: Exploring how to integrate positive artificial intelligence solutions into society

Most influential teachers: Mr. Martin Ballard

• United States Presidential Scholar Program candidate
• National Merit finalist
• Student Software Lead for First Robotics Competition Team 3538 — seven-time event winner, three-time Autonomous Award Winner, two-time State Division Winner, three-time Worlds Qualifying Team
• Second place, Michigan High School Ethics Bowl 2022
• First place, Future Problem Solving Individual Global Issues Problem Solving (International Qualifier)
• First place, Future Problem Solving Individual Scenario Writing (International Qualifier)
• Major League Hacking Tidy the Hack Up Hackathon Best Spring Cleaning Hack
• Elks Most Valuable Student state finalist
• Congressional App Challenge District 11, third place
• National Honor Society Scholarship semifinalist

A quote about myself: "If you only do what you can do, you will never be more than you are now." — Master Shifu

Sponsor: C.A. Hull

Runners-up: Afeefah Mangera, Khadeja Rizvi, Hailey Serlin and Ayushi Gupta

Judge: Rodney G. Thomas, principal, Lamphere High School

World studies

Kaeshav krishna.

GPA: 4.3265

Parents: Sudha Varadarajan and Krishna Soundararajan

Career plans: Educational technology

Most influential teachers: Jacqueline Ciolek

• President of Troy High School Model UN club, 2023-24
• Best Delegate Award, Michigan State University Model United Nations, 2024
• Outstanding Delegate Award, Harvard Model United Nations, 2022
• Outstanding Delegate Award, Model United Nations at the University of Michigan, 2024
• Presidential Volunteer Service Award, Bronze and Silver, 2022 and 2023
• Nunmaan Tamil Academy Chief Education Officer Scholarship Award, 2023
• Recipient of Michigan Seal of Biliteracy, 2023
• Intern teacher at Chennai Higher Secondary School — Alwarpet, Chennai, India, 2023
• Intern fellow with DCCC at Rep. Andy Levin’s August primaries campaign, 2022
• Bronze Medal, National Spanish Exam, 2022 and 2023

A quote about myself: "Fight for the things that you care about. But do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” — Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Sponsor: Richard and Jane Manoogian Foundation

High school: Washtenaw International High School

Parents: Anand Rao and Kanchan Torvi

Major: Environmental engineering

Career plans: Environmental engineering and sustainability

Most influential teachers: Mr. Ashley Fox

• Created and led the volunteer team that ran the A2ZERO Plant-Based Challenge for 250-plus, in partnership with Ann Arbor’s Office of Sustainability and Innovations and VegMichigan
• Youth representative and chair of Outreach Subcommittee for the Washtenaw County Environmental Council
• Co-founder and president of Green Guild, WIHI’s sustainability club
• Led initiative to get school board to pass a climate resolution committing to resource allocation for sustainable practices, garnering support from community members
• Leader of WIHI MUN Team
• Highest Honors Award at Mid American Model United Nations
• National Merit Scholarship winner
• U.S. Senate Youth Finalist
• Indian classical dance training in Kathak for 11-plus years, and a two-hour solo showcase in June 2024
• President of La Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica

A quote about myself: "In life there are no regrets, only lessons learned."

Runners-up: Soo-yeon Kim, Zachary Rodger, Janna Carlson, Mohammed Fares Alhamwi

Judge: David Hales, senior adviser, MI History Day, Historical Society of Michigan

What one thing do you remember most about Donald Trump’s presidency?

In April as part of the New York Times/Siena College survey, we called about 1,000 voters across the country and asked for their most prominent memory of the Trump years. Here’s what they said, in their own words.

“ His honesty ”

Trump supporter in 2024

“ His lies ”

Biden supporter

“ He had the country headed in the right direction ”

Trump supporter

“ America was going in the wrong direction ”

“ He was a crook ”

“ He couldn’t be bought ”

“ Efficient ”

“ Incompetent ”

“ Less division ”

“ Divided the country ”

The One Thing Voters Remember About Trump

By Christine Zhang ,  Sean Catangui and Alex Lemonides

The 2024 election will be in part a battle over memories, perhaps more than in previous presidential races because it’s a rare rematch. And memories aren’t necessarily static — what is happening today can influence those memories.

Two of the biggest U.S. news events in decades, the Covid pandemic and the Jan. 6 storming of the Capitol, are seldom the first thing on people’s minds when it comes to their memories of the Trump administration, for example, according to an April Times/Siena survey of registered voters nationwide .

When asked to describe the one thing they remembered most from Donald J. Trump’s presidency, only 5 percent of respondents referred to Jan. 6, and only 4 percent to Covid.

“It’s the salience of issues today that color the memories that people have of Trump,” said John Sides, a professor of political science at Vanderbilt.

The importance of issues of the moment may explain the large number of responses about the economy as opposed to Covid or Jan. 6, which have largely receded from the headlines.

Thinking back to when Donald Trump was president, what one thing do you remember most about Donald Trump’s presidency?

Trump’s behavior

The economy

Immigration

Foreign policy

Based on a New York Times/Siena College poll of 1,059 registered voters conducted April 7 to 11, 2024.

Top six categories shown.

Because of recency bias — a tendency to focus on recent events instead of past ones — people typically feel their current problems most sharply. And they tend to have a warmer recall of past experiences, which can lead to a sense of nostalgia. Like past presidents, Mr. Trump has enjoyed a higher approval rating of his time in office in retrospect.

Voters who shared negative memories of the Trump years overwhelmingly mentioned aspects of his behavior and personality, while the bulk of positive memories were about the economy.

Over a third of voters shared a positive memory. The same percentage shared a negative one. (Some memories could not be clearly categorized.) The Trump and Biden campaigns are sure to try to emphasize and remind voters of the memories favorable to them.

Here’s a closer look at some of the respondents’ most common memories of Mr. Trump’s years in office.

Comments from voters who said what they remembered most was Trump’s behavior

“ He was the biggest liar ever ”

Biden supporter in 2024

“ His dislike for Black people ”

“ The terrible things he did to women ”

“ Chaos and corruption ”

“ The disgrace he brought to this country ”

“ His direct way of doing business ”

“ I remember him using Twitter a lot ”

“ He got things done and fulfilled campaign promises ”

Selected responses from a New York Times/Siena College poll of 1,059 registered voters conducted April 7 to 11, 2024.

About two-thirds of the comments about Mr. Trump’s behavior and personality came from voters who said they would support President Biden in November.

Voters tended to speak about Mr. Trump’s personality traits in general terms, rather than recalling specific memories. These respondents were most likely using the question as a vehicle to express their views of Mr. Trump, in addition to or instead of calling to mind a specific memory, Mr. Sides said. Their answers are “a mixture of opinion and, maybe, memory,” he said.

For example, some referred to him as a liar. Others said they remembered him as sexist or racist. Dozens of voters simply replied “chaos.”

Biden supporters were far more likely to cite Mr. Trump’s behavior and personality than any specific issue. Some of them may have spoken about Mr. Trump generally because of the multitude of controversies during his time in office, Mr. Sides said. “If you don’t like Trump and your memory of Trump is essentially a negatively colored memory, it’s easier to sum it up in this fairly broad way by just critiquing him as a person,” he said.

Relatively few voters cited positive memories of Mr. Trump’s behavior and personality. Those who did typically used a common refrain: that he “got things done” or “did what he set out to do.”

This could, again, be a way for voters to express an opinion without a specific memory.

It could also reflect a persona that Mr. Trump has honed at rallies and in campaign communications, said Seth Masket, a professor of political science at the University of Denver. These recollections are not necessarily “bound by reality,” he said. “They’re images. They’re reputations.”

Comments from voters who said what they remembered most was the economy

“ The economy ”

“ The economy was a little better than it is now ”

“ The economy was in a lot better shape than it is now ”

“ Gas was cheap and we were using our own oil ”

“ That he gave out the stimulus checks ”

“ Tax cuts for the rich ”

“ The tax cuts ”

“ Good economy, no wars ”

Voters who cited the economy as their top memory largely looked back on the Trump years as a time of prosperity. A large share of these comments came from Trump supporters, many of whom said, generically, “the economy.”

“A lot of that is kind of a response to what people perceive as a not good economy now,” Mr. Masket said. Memories of a thriving Trump-era economy could reflect the salience of lingering inflation as an issue faced by President Biden today.

Presidents don’t have as much influence over the economy as many voters assume. For example, most rich countries like the U.S. experienced inflation spikes and then declines in inflation as the pandemic wound down, and economists have generally praised the U.S. recovery . But many voters are typically worried about economic signals right in front of them in the moment.

The many responses mentioning lower gas prices under Mr. Trump, for example, were a way for voters to draw a contrast between the two candidates. “In 2020, when no one could travel, gas prices were very low,” Mr. Masket said. Higher gas prices were “one of the most notable features of inflation” during the pandemic recovery, he added.

Comments from voters who said what they remembered most was immigration

“ He saved our country and closed the border ”

“ The wall ”

“ Started the wall on the border ”

“ His promise to build a wall ”

“ He did attempt to start building the wall ”

“ He did something about the border ”

“ Putting children in cages ”

The Biden administration has grappled with the surge in illegal crossings along the border with Mexico, making it an issue with higher salience. Trump supporters who remembered Mr. Trump’s immigration politics tended to cite his promises to build a wall along the border and his hard-line approach to border security, things they saw as standing in contrast with Mr. Biden’s approach.

The small number of Biden supporters in the survey whose main memory of Mr. Trump was about immigration almost all mentioned Trump-era policies that led to family separations at the border.

Comments from voters who said what they remembered most was Covid or Jan. 6

“ When he refused to turn over power ”

“ He should be in jail for the Jan. 6 incident ”

“ Involvement with the Jan. 6 riot attack on the capital ”

“ Jan. 6 and his unwillingness to accept the election results ”

“ His anti-science views; he called Covid a liberal hoax ”

“ He called Covid-19 a hoax and was a constant liar ”

“ Total incompetence in handling the Covid-19 crisis ”

“ Negligence in providing accurate Covid information ”

The fading of Covid and Jan. 6 from people’s memories about Mr. Trump — less than 10 percent of survey respondents mentioned them — is still surprising, Mr. Masket said. “In many ways, the most recent things about his presidency are not the things that people remember about him,” he said.

Voters may be loath to revisit unpleasant memories of the pandemic, he said. This helps Mr. Trump in some ways. “Trump almost gets a pass,” he said, adding, “He just gets, ‘Well, the first three years were good and the fourth year wasn’t his fault.’”

Thoughts of Covid and Jan. 6 could have informed other answers, even if voters didn’t cite them specifically, Mr. Sides said. For instance, voters could have been thinking of these events when giving responses mentioning Mr. Trump’s lies or chaos and division during his time in office.

Comments from voters who said what they remembered most was foreign policy

“ No new wars ”

“ Knew how to talk to foreign people and keep peace with everyone ”

“ Peace in the Middle East ”

“ World peace ”

“ Stability among nations ”

“ Opening up communication with North Korea ”

“ Threatening nuclear war against North Korea ”

“ Probably when he made peace with North Korea and he was the first president to step foot on Korean soil ”

A handful of voters in the survey, mostly Trump supporters, looked back on the Trump years as a time of peace. This may be because of the two major international conflicts — the Israel-Hamas war and the Russia-Ukraine war — that are dominant in the public consciousness today. As with responses about the economy and immigration, these responses may reflect an implicit critique of Mr. Biden’s handling of foreign policy.

A few voters — both Biden and Trump supporters — specifically mentioned North Korea in their top memory of Mr. Trump as president, in particular his meeting with the North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, at the Demilitarized Zone.

More About the Times/Siena Poll

You Ask, We Answer: How The Times/Siena Poll Is Conducted

The New York Times/Siena College Poll has earned a reputation for accuracy and transparency. But as with any poll, there are limits to just how much you can derive.

By The New York Times

There is time for perceptions to shift before November, and for other issues to take hold. (The survey was conducted before the start of Mr. Trump’s Manhattan criminal trial.)

In the battle over memories, the Biden campaign will be trying to remind voters of some older ones that reflect poorly on Mr. Trump.

In April, Mr. Biden shared a video on social media of Mr. Trump’s suggestion to inject disinfectant during the early days of the pandemic. And on Tuesday, the Biden campaign released a digital ad that interspersed Mr. Trump’s criticism of immigrants along with images of crying women and children.

“If people are mostly thinking about the economy, that seems to be helping Trump right now, and what the Biden team is going to try and do is keep raising other issues, keep raising, you know, Jan. 6 as an issue or chaos and Covid as an issue,” Mr. Masket said.

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English Student Set to Attend UVA's Public Policy Graduate Program

SUMMARY: Evan Weaver, English major, is set to graduate this May and attend the University of Virginia's Public Policy Master's program in August. He talked with English intern, Kat Mauser, about his time at JMU and his post-graduation plans.

Evan Weaver, a senior English major, was recently accepted into UVA’s Master of Public Policy program . He will graduate from JMU this May and will begin his master’s program at UVA in August. He found out about this program through its partnership with the Honors College at JMU, and is excited to begin his time in Charlottesville.

Q: What major and minors will you graduate with?

Weaver: [I’ll graduate with a] Bachelors of Arts in English. I have one minor, [which] is through the Honors College — Interdisciplinary Honors Studies — and then I have a minor in math.

I started in computer science [as a major]. I did three semesters of computer science and physics, so I had so many math credits that I just figured, why not go to the math minor?

Q: Can you tell me a little bit about UVA’s Master of Public Policy program?

Weaver: It's a two-year program at the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy . It's a lot of economics, a lot of political science courses, and things like that. And there's an internship requirement that I think I do between year one and year two. A lot of graduates typically go into public sector and federal agency work, or consulting, or think tanks, and things like that.

Q: What do you hope to do after graduating from this program?

Weaver: I'm a little undecided at this point. In my application essays I talked about science and technology — like innovation, regulation, climate change, advocacy work and stuff like that. I was talking about some social equity programs [and] policies surrounding that … I want to definitely do federal agency work, or work at the state level, or something like that.

Q:What’s been your favorite part about the JMU English program thus far?

Weaver: Definitely the professors. The professors are great and super accessible. Gen Ed English classes [are] one thing, but upper level English classes —  I love being in a room full of English majors who care about talking about books and poems and things, and hearing what other kids have to say.

Definitely also learning how to write. I came into college thinking I was a decent writer, but I've learned a lot about writing since going through the English program.

Q: What specific things about the JMU English program have prepared you for this program?

Weaver: Definitely writing skills. I went to this admitted students day at UVA and one of the things [a presenter] said [was that] a lot of people could be better writers in policy and in government. So definitely learning how to write and [using] critical thinking skills to understand problems.

Q: What is your favorite English class you’ve ever taken at JMU?

Weaver: I really did like the romanticism [class]. I [also] took one of my Gen Ed poetry [classes] … I really did like that class … I was the only English major but I really liked that class.

Q: What drew you to pursue Public Policy?

Weaver: The Batten School has a partnership with the Honors College, [which was] how I first became aware of the program. I was already thinking about doing law at the time, so I took the LSAT and everything, and then I eventually decided I just didn't want to be an attorney. But, I definitely wanted to work in government in some capacity. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the partnership between the program, [is] that's how I managed to get a fellowship. They had a guaranteed minimum fellowship if you applied [as] an alumni of the Honors College, so it seemed like a really good opportunity. I went to an interest meeting … and it seemed like a really interesting area to go into. I don't think I ever came to JMU with the idea that I'd be doing this, but things sort of fall into place. And I'm pretty pleased about it.

Q: What advice would you give a JMU student considering the same, or a similar, career path?

Weaver:  Don't overlook the skills that you're learning in the English program. They're definitely valuable skills. They might not necessarily be easy to put on a resume or talk about or that sort of thing, but just because you're in the humanities doesn't mean that you're totally barred from doing stuff … the skills that you're learning in the English department are definitely worthwhile, so don't sell yourself short.

Q: Why should people care about JMU English?

Weaver: I loved it. I definitely had a good experience. I came in to JMU and was a computer science major, and then I switched to Physics. At no point during the application process did I even consider being an English major — it just sort of happened … There's a lot of really good skills that you learn. If you like reading, you definitely fit in and get something out of the English program … I think the people are definitely what makes the program special — the professors and other students in it. That's why I really enjoyed my time.”

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by Kat Mauser

Published: Friday, May 3, 2024

Last Updated: Friday, May 3, 2024

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