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Let’s Get Real: What if I don’t know what to do next?

With course schedules available for spring, it can feel a little overwhelming to pick classes when you are unsure of your major. Don’t panic. You still have plenty of time to explore. 

Reflect on the classes you took this semester

What did you like or dislike about each of the classes you took this semester? What did you like or dislike about the professors or style of instruction from your classes? Use this information to think about majors or courses that might not be the best fit. 

Consider making a pro/con chart of the things you liked and disliked with each class. If the cons outweigh the pros, you may want to think about eliminating that major from your list of possibilities. This process can help you identify your likes and dislikes, which is a step in the right direction toward picking a major.

Check out FYXP 1000 and FYXP 1100

As you think about classes for spring semester, consider these courses: 

  • FYXP 1000: Academic Exploration & Critical Decision Making 
  • FYXP 1100: Academic Support Seminars

These are small, interactive classes taught by advisors and academic coaches that can help you find your path.

Set up an appointment with your advisor

Your advisor can help you sort through your likes and dislikes about specific course content, professors and/or instruction styles. They can help you make a list of things you might be interested in. They also may have recommendations for certain courses or professors who they think would be a good fit. These courses may help you explore a certain area of interest and possibly lead to a decision on what to major in.

You can also set up an appointment with Career Services or visit their drop-in hours 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, in C4C S440. They can help you learn more about connecting your interests to different career paths.

Additionally, Career Services has discounted rates to complete inventory assessments. These include StrengthsFinder 2.0, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, Strong Interest Inventory and Do What You Are. While these tools may not tell you exactly what to major in, they may give you some ideas for courses to take that could help you explore your interests in a more in-depth way.

Talk to friends, alumni and classmates

Still have questions about what classes to take in the spring? Talk to other CU Boulder students—past and present. Ask them about their experiences with certain professors or specific content areas.

  • Connect with the peer advisors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday in the University Exploration & Advising Center in CASE. 
  • Career Services can help you make connections with recent graduates and upperclassmen who have a wealth of knowledge about campus and course offerings. 
  • You can also ask your current classmates. They may say something that sparks your interest or intrigues you enough to sign up for the course. Browse the course catalog with a friend to see what other options are out there. 

Good luck, and don’t worry! You still have time to explore.