Faculty/Staff > Choosing/Changing a Major

Faculty and Staff

Choosing and Changing a Major

What can I do with a major in ____________?

Today's more career-conscious students ask this question routinely. Faculty advisors are frequently on the listening end and, unless they are particularly immersed in today's career fields and job markets, they may appreciate knowing of people and resources that can help those students. At times like these, the Center for Career Services is happy to assist in a number of ways.

Career information. The Center's Information Resources and Services Unit maintains print and online resources that can alert students to options connected with certain choices of study. A conversation with Chuck Reutlinger, Associate Director for Information Resources and Services, can help students conduct productive career research. Online resources for career information gathering are highlighted on the index pages for both undergraduate and graduate students. These resources may compliment others maintained by career services offices in the Career Services Network. Students should be encouraged to use all campus resources to illuminate options. Faculty may email Chuck with questions about Center resources.

Graduate surveys. The Center annually surveys recent graduates to learn what kinds of positions they secure upon graduation. These surveys are useful for current students who may be exploring their options. Survey respondents may have also volunteered to be approachable for more personal insights on their positions. Students can view survey results by clicking on the link to Survey Results on our home page, and they may visit the Center and inquire about recent survey results and possible connections for networking through the Mentor@SU program.

Career guidance. Career consultants would also be happy to guide students to answers to the above question. They are also ready to engage students in discussions of career options which may not be so directly tied to choices of major, and to correct perceptions that certain fields are exclusively reserved for students with specific majors. Appointments may be made by calling the Center at 443-3616.

Faculty members with questions regarding the Center's career counseling services should email Rosanne Ecker , the Center's Associate Director for Counseling and Graduate Student Career Services.