As you celebrate your student’s admission to Tech and help them prepare for fall semester, how do you encourage your student to choose a major that is right for them? With 36 undergraduate majors listed at Georgia Tech, there are many options for your student to consider.

It is important to keep in mind that it is possible for your student to change majors more than once for a better understanding of what major “feels right” for them – one that will keep them motivated in the years to come. From internships to research projects to conversations with various academic advisors, upper class students, and alums, your student will have multiple opportunities to identify a good fit. Encourage their participation beyond academics to enhance exploration and gathering information about disciplines. With varied experiences and reflection, your student will be prepared to make a well-founded choice of major, leading to sound academic planning, anticipating the job market, and actively interviewing for positions to secure a job after graduation.

The annual Majors Fair (Tuesday, October 23, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) is designed for first and second year students to gather information and ask questions of individuals representing the various Tech majors. As students move through the stages of career development, they can take advantage of the many valuable resources and activities offered through Career Services. These include daily walk-in hours providing quick answers to questions and resume critiques; career counseling; and employer connections accessible through multiple recruiting activities on campus. The Career Services Open House (Wednesday, August 29, from 4:00 to 7:00) is a great introduction to our services.

If your student enters Tech with significant AP credits and is uncertain of their decision about a major, encourage them to make an appointment for career counseling. The process includes one-on-one meetings, self-assessment, information gathering, and decision making to help them plan. Information is available at www.career.gatech.edu or (404) 894-2550.