Tips for parents
The difference between undecided and deciding
In the College of Education and Human Development, we use the word "deciding," rather than "undecided," for students who haven't yet chosen a major. Why does this matter? For one thing, when working with a student it's important to approach the major and career exploration process with an open mind. A student who has not yet made a decision is in the process of deciding about which path is most suited for his or her needs. "Undecided" implies a static state; we want to encourage students to see themselves as actively engaging in the decision-making process. By changing the language we use with students, we are changing the dynamics in which we approach the exploration process.
Also, the word "undecided" can give students the impression that they should have made a firm decision by now and if they haven't, they're behind. This can add pressure to the already big decision the student is facing, and could lead them to make a premature commitment, before they've had a chance to explore themselves and their options. It's normal for first-year students to have some uncertainty about their academic goals, and a big decision, like a college major, is worth taking some time to explore in a thoughtful and informed manner.
Helping your deciding student
As adults, we may have forgotten how we got to where we are now. Or we may remember all too well the mistakes we made along the way. You may have forgotten how hard it was to make the first decisions about your own future. Take a moment to talk with your deciding student about your own journey on the career path.
- What helped you when you were deciding?
- What were some of the things or people that influenced your decisions about choosing a major/career?
- What were some of the things you did to explore and solidify the choices that interested you?
Most importantly, remember that this is the student's journey and that the value of a mistake made is a lesson learned. Exploration of all majors, programs, and possible jobs may be necessary for a deciding student to feel comfortable with making their decision. Support, encouragement, and helping a student to advocate for himself or herself are some great tools to use.