University life is a unique time in most individuals' lives. This is especially the case during their freshmen years. It's the same planet but for many freshmen, the transition from high school to college is like stepping into a strange new world -- a world of limitless possibilities and choices.
If your high school only served vanilla ice cream, The University of Memphis, with more than 50 majors ranging from accounting to women's studies, will be like a Baskin-Robbins. While choosing a major is much more important than choosing a flavor of ice cream it doesn't have to be a nerve-racking experience.
Carl Chando, coordinator of the Academic Counseling Unit, said one of the easiest ways to relieve some of the stress of choosing a major is to make full use of academic counseling.
"Students should see academic counselors as tour guides whose job it is to help facilitate a smooth trip," said Chando.
Valerie Childs, a business sales junior, said her experience with academic counseling was negative. According to Childs, her counselor's 'I know what's best for you' attitude was an immediate turn-off.
"Learn your bulletin," Childs said. "Double check your advisor's information with the registrar and remember in the end it's your responsibility."
Nicole Baker, a broadcast and electronic media senior, said she had to switch counselors. She advises freshmen to do the same if they have problems.
"You should find an advisor that you're comfortable with, even if you have to change a couple times," said Baker.
Although advisors don't know everything, they can be quite helpful in a general sense, said Chando.
"Students can discuss anything that might be affecting their major-selection process," Chando said. "If nothing else, advisors can point students in the right direction for specific information."
A problem often rises when freshmen consult upperclassmen in the same major about requirements.
"What some students fail to consider is that requirements change," said Chando. "The bulletin used for the class of 2005 may have significant changes from the one used by the class of 2003."
Academic counselors also encourage students to explore new fields of study through introductory classes, according to Joy Stout, an academic counselor herself.
"Even if a student doesn't make a new interest their major, they might choose it as a minor," said Stout.
University of Memphis alum Michael Erskine was a history major with plans of going to law school before a class sent him in a new direction.
"I liked writing so I took a class in journalism, Erskine said. "The next semester I changed my major."
Erskine went on to write for The Daily Helmsman before graduating and now writes for The Commercial Appeal.
Double majoring may be an option for students that are really passionate about two fields. However, maintaining a social life while pursing this option may prove difficult. A double major can be very hard, according to Chando.
"You'll truly be maximizing your college education if you can handle it," Chando said.
To prevent problems, students considering a double major need to talk to advisors in both fields because all majors are not compatible, said Chando.
For example, the bulletin states, "Students majoring in journalism may select only one concentration and may not simultaneously complete within the 124 hours required for the Bachelor of Arts degree, the concentration in film and videotape production within the theatre and communication arts major."
No matter what major students choose, time management will be of the greatest importance for all students, according to Stout.
"Students have to find the best way to balance their limited time," Stout said. "This is particularly true with freshmen."
Freshmen are often so overwhelmed with all the social activities that they can participate in that they lose focus, Stout added.
"The college experience is exciting, and we encourage students to participate in activities that will strengthen their minds, bodies and souls," said Stout. "But remember-- preparing for your future is the main objective."
