Spring Break
Making the major decision
William Bruce
Issue date: 11/5/08 Section: News
For most students, choosing a major is a complicated decision that requires time and patience.
Based on experienced, a seasoned advisor said most freshmen have little idea as to what they want to major in.
"I haven't kept a count and don't have firm numbers, but I would guess that about 75% of incoming students don't know what they want to do or major in. Some have an idea or two but aren't certain," said Professor Steven McKenzie of the Religious studies department. "Others come in certain of what they want to do but then change their minds for various reasons."
A number of students said that uncertainty about what they wanted to study was an influence in their decision to attend Rhodes College. As a liberal arts institution, a large part of the academics is connecting different fields of study.
"I think the whole point of liberal arts is finding out what you want to do along the way," said Rebecca Bates, a senior creative writing major. "My wanting to explore options affected my choice to come here."
"The new curriculum is designed to prod students toward exploring where their real interests lie rather than simply seeking a job path," said McKenzie. "We hope the Foundation requirements will provide areas for exploration rather than just a checklist of things to get out of the way."
A small group of students said they knew what they wanted to major in coming into college. The bulk of the students are majoring, or plan to major in a science related subject.
"Rhodes is one of the most selective schools, and has a great science program," said Alex Tong, a sophomore. "It also has close proximity to St. Jude children's research hospital. I work there now"
"I major in biology because I've always wanted to be a doctor," said Kyle Pipkin, a sophomore.
Certainty or uncertainty aside, numerous professors said that students can expect to change their mind about what they wish to study at some point during college.
Based on experienced, a seasoned advisor said most freshmen have little idea as to what they want to major in.
"I haven't kept a count and don't have firm numbers, but I would guess that about 75% of incoming students don't know what they want to do or major in. Some have an idea or two but aren't certain," said Professor Steven McKenzie of the Religious studies department. "Others come in certain of what they want to do but then change their minds for various reasons."
A number of students said that uncertainty about what they wanted to study was an influence in their decision to attend Rhodes College. As a liberal arts institution, a large part of the academics is connecting different fields of study.
"I think the whole point of liberal arts is finding out what you want to do along the way," said Rebecca Bates, a senior creative writing major. "My wanting to explore options affected my choice to come here."
"The new curriculum is designed to prod students toward exploring where their real interests lie rather than simply seeking a job path," said McKenzie. "We hope the Foundation requirements will provide areas for exploration rather than just a checklist of things to get out of the way."
A small group of students said they knew what they wanted to major in coming into college. The bulk of the students are majoring, or plan to major in a science related subject.
"Rhodes is one of the most selective schools, and has a great science program," said Alex Tong, a sophomore. "It also has close proximity to St. Jude children's research hospital. I work there now"
"I major in biology because I've always wanted to be a doctor," said Kyle Pipkin, a sophomore.
Certainty or uncertainty aside, numerous professors said that students can expect to change their mind about what they wish to study at some point during college.
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