2015 UC Merced Undeclared Brochure

ASK YOURSELF: WHOCAN I BECOME?

Choosing a Major It is a common pitfall to apply for a major that seems to lead you to a career with the highest earning potential, or the highest probability of getting a job. However, the students who find the greatest success in school and in their lives after college, are those who chose majors based on subjects they are passionate about. Questions such as “What can this degree do for me?” should take a back seat to “What do I enjoy doing?” or “Which major interests me the most?” Often, interest in a particular field of study is motivation enough to achieve high academic standing within that major, which in turn leads to satisfying careers and overall happiness. Majors and careers do not always have direct relationships, but it is not uncommon for people to pursue careers and lifestyles that align with their majors. A major is just one facet of a person’s life an employer considers. Employers look for a combination of qualifications, evaluating job candidates on many factors, including attitude, related experience, achievements, extra-curricular involvement, leadership, communication abilities, and transferable and adaptive skills.

PAGE 4 | UC MERCED ADMISSIONS