Student Success Center

Looking for Direction?

Strategies for Undecided Students

For a printer friendly copy, click here (PDF).

Choosing a major can be a daunting process: Where to start? What if I make a “wrong” choice? Will I be able to find a job in my field after graduation? Read on to learn about resources to help you make an informed decision.

1. Research & Explore

Learn about Yourself

Computer Assessments:
- Discover: Answer questions about your skills, interests, and values to see what careers might be interesting for you. (email advising@clackamas.edu or stop by the front desk in the Community Center Building to pick-up a token).
- Jung Typology Test: asks you questions about your personality and preferences and makes some career suggestions.
Paper & Pencil Assessment:
- Holland personality type assessment: Answer questions about your interests to learn more about your work personality and match your Holland Type to majors and careers.
For some self-reflection questions, try these handouts:
- My Ideal Day
- Personal Inventory

Research Different Majors

Want to major in history, but don't know what you could do with that? Check out what jobs different majors lead to at “What can I do with a major in?”
Interview faculty advisors (faculty advisor contact information can be found here) to learn more about their areas of expertise.
See what colleges offer which majors.
Check out the Advising website for additional online resources such as “Transfer Guides.”

Explore Occupations

Learn more about careers, salary ranges, etc at :
Conduct informational interviews with people who work in fields that interest you. Find out what their days are like.


		SMART idea: Schedule an appointment to meet with a Career Counselor. Call us at (503) 594-3475 to schedule a time.

2. Make a Plan

After researching & exploring different options, make a plan by choosing a major or narrowing down your choices to a handful. Visit with an academic advisor to discuss educational planning and transfer options.

3. Evaluate Your Choice

So, you’ve made a plan. Start taking classes and continue to explore the field using information interviews, cooperative work experience, etc. How is it going? Are you happy with your decision? Do you want to reevaluate? If so, that’s OK. Remember: The average student changes their major 3-7 times!