Parents > Choosing/Changing a Major

Parents

Choosing and Changing a Major

What can I do with a major in ____________?

Parents ask their students for answers to this question. Today's more career-conscious students ask this question routinely. Faculty advisors are frequently on the listening end and when they are particularly immersed in today's career fields and job markets, they can be valuable resources. They may also refer students to 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 Career 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, the associate Director for Information Resources and Services, can help students conduct productive career research. A specific item on the Student Indexes outlines online resources for exploration. 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. Parents 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. Students can view survey results by clicking on Survey Results on this ite's home page, and they may visit the Center and inquire about recent survey results.

Networking. Survey respondents and other SU alumni and friends have also volunteered to be approachable for more personal insights on their positions and fields. They constitute the Mentor@SU program. Students can explore possible connections for networking through the Mentor@SU program by visiting the center for more information or by clicking on Mentor@SU in the menu at the left.

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.