Student Spotlight: Exploring and Changing Majors

Still trying to decide on the right major for you? Carolyn Debaradinis, a Class of 2019 Marketing major, has been there. Below is Carolyn’s story about significantly changing her path and how it’s led her to happiness and success in her education.

Carolyn came to Assumption knowing that she wanted to major in Education. She had always wanted to work with children and had enjoyed her prior experience teaching catechism. Carolyn began taking Education courses early on and soon realized what a challenge this major would be for her. The concepts just weren’t clicking. Slowly and sadly, she realized that the Education major just wasn’t a fit for her. She felt lost, not knowing what to do anymore.

After consulting with a few professors, Carolyn learned that she didn’t have to know what she wanted to do with the rest of her life just yet. She just needed to figure out a path that fit and that she was passionate about. Speaking with her parents and friends in other majors led Carolyn to explore the Business Studies department. These conversations prompted her to take Marketing & Management 101 during the second semester of her sophomore year, and finally everything clicked. The course material came so much more naturally. Carolyn felt good about the subject and truly enjoyed going to class for a change.

This semester, Carolyn has an internship with Crossroads Schools as a Development Intern promoting their programs and reaching out to donors. In this position, Carolyn gets to fulfill both her passion for marketing and her passion for education. No, this is not the path Carolyn had imagined for herself, but it has led her right where she belongs.

For all those unsure of what to major in or who are considering changing majors, Carolyn offers the following advice: “Go with your gut. Don’t force yourself to follow a path that doesn’t feel right. Everything will come together in the end.”

If you’re looking for guidance in choosing a major, be sure to talk to your professors to learn what each major has to offer. You can also visit the CDIC to learn about potential career paths related to each major, as well as to take assessments that will connect your interests to majors at the College. 

Remember that your major doesn’t dictate your career, and you still have plenty of time to decide what you want to do with your life. Take it one step at a time, and give yourself the time to explore.

By Beth Teague
Beth Teague Graduate Assistant