Some incoming college freshmen know exactly what subject they want to major in. But for many others, choosing a college major before high school graduation simply doesn’t make sense.

Each year, approximately 20 to 25 percent of the entering freshman class of The College here at University of the Pacific officially declare themselves undecided” or “exploratory” majors. The actual numbers are much higher, as many students declare a major when they apply, knowing little about that field and fully aware that they will probably change their minds before settling on a specific course of study.

We welcome these undecided students, and if you fall in this category, we welcome you too. We welcome you because we know what thousands of incoming freshmen before you have learned from experience: A liberal arts and sciences school like College of the Pacific is the best place for you.

It is important for you to understand that it is perfectly acceptable to take some time while in school before choosing a college major and deciding your career path. In fact, you should see this as an opportunity. Now more than ever you have the freedom to explore different interests. You may even discover interests you didn’t know you had.

Here at Pacific, you can explore without falling behind in the pursuit of your degree. Why? Your degree at Pacific consists of three basic components: your major, your general education program, and elective units. You can take a course such as Geosciences 61, Geology of California, for example, just because it interests you, and it will count toward your elective or general education units. Or you can consider taking Philosophy 21, Moral Problems; Political Science 122, Constitutional Law; or Arts 3, Visual Arts Exploration.

These are just a few of your many choices, all of which count toward your degree. Furthermore, you’ll benefit intellectually from your exploration, and when you find a subject that ignites your passions or at least sparks your curiosity, you can decide to pursue more coursework in that area. One of these courses or series of courses may ultimately be the key to your final decision to declare a particular major. Some students will declare and change their major three or four times, which is fine. So long as you have declared a major by the beginning of your junior year, you will be right on track to earning your degree.

Bottom line: Choosing a college major is a serious step, but it’s one you do not need to take before starting college or even in the first two years of your college experience.