Choosing a major, which isthe specialized area of your college study, can be overwhelming. But have nofear! Your choice of major will not lock you into a specific career for therest of your life. And the major you choose will neither predict nor guaranteeyour future. Consider these factors when picking your major.

Career Prep

Choose a major because itwill prepare you for a specific career path or advanced study. Maybe youalready know that you want to be a nurse, a day trader, or a web developer.Before you declare, take a class or two in the relevant discipline,check out the syllabus for an advanced seminar, and talk to students in thedepartment of your choice. Make sure you\'re ready for the coursework requiredfor the career of your dreams.

Earning Potential

Future earning potential isworth considering—college is a big investment, and while college can pay youback in many ways beyond salary, this can be a major factor for students whoare paying their own way or taking out loans. According to PayScale.com, themajors that lead to the highest salaries include just about any type ofengineering, actuarial mathematics, computer science, physics, government, andeconomics. Keep your quality of life in mind, too—that six figure salary maynot be worth it if you\'re not happy at the office.

Subjects You Love

Some students choose amajor simply because they love the subject matter. If you love what you\'restudying, you\'re more likely to fully engage with your classes and collegeexperience, and that can mean better grades and great relationships with othersin your field. If your calling is philosophy, don\'t write it off just becauseyou\'re not sure about graduate school, or what the job market holds forphilosophers. Many liberal arts majors provide students with critical thinkingskills and writing abilities that are highly valued by employers.

Undecided? Explore yourinterests.

If you truly have no ideawhat you want to study, that\'s okay—many schools don\'t require students todeclare a major until you are a second-year student. That gives you foursemesters to play the field. Exploring your interests will help you find yourbest fit major—and maybe even your ideal career.