Exploratory Pioneers

Is it OK to be undecided?

Yes – it is perfectly fine to enroll at SHU and not have a major declared. There are many advantages to starting as an exploratory student. A study conducted at Western Kentucky University found that students who enter college without declaring a major may have a better chance of graduating in four years. In the study, students who started without declaring a major, but selected one by the end of sophomore year, had a graduation rate of 83.4%, whereas students who started at school with a major and never switched at a graduation rate of 72.8%. This discrepancy can be attributed to the fact that the undeclared students took the time to research and gather information and choose a field/major that best suited them.  The Center for Career & Professional Development is here to help and support you while you explore different majors and career paths!   

The Benefits of Beginning College Undeclared

• You will have the opportunity to explore all majors and minors offered at the University
• We will help get you connected to different classes, professors, and fields that might spark an interest you didn’t know you had! 
• You will still be able to graduate on time
• By meeting regularly with both your academic advisor and your career counselor, you can track your progress to graduation regularly and make informed decisions on your registration plans
• You will gain beneficial skills valued by future employers
• Undeclared SHU students will develop the necessary toolkit of skills that employers in various industries seek including critical thinking, problem solving, oral/written communication, collaboration, and professionalism.

What Steps Can I Take to Find a Major and/or Career Path?

• Request an appointment on Handshake with Amy Novak
• Join the Discover You program 
• Apply to the Job Shadow program