Frequently Asked Questions

List of questions and answers for exploring students.

What are the benefits of Exploring?

Exploring when you first enter college allows you to explore courses and find subject matters that interest you. Entering college as an Exploring Student allows you to have the time you need to explore majors, careers, and yourself.

How do I be purposeful in my Exploring?

To be successful throughout your exploration process, you should stay active in your search by asking specific questions, gathering useful information, evaluating data, and exploring various outcomes. You should also make efforts to meet with your Exploring Advisor twice a semester and follow through with recommended tasks between appointments.

Things to consider while Exploring:

• What are your interests – things you like or don’t like?
• What skills and abilities do you already possess? What skills do you want?
• What do you value? In yourself? In others? In your future place of employment or job?
• What are you passionate about learning?
• What are some of your career aspirations?
• What makes you unique?
• What are some courses that you really liked in high school and want to take more of?
• What courses did you not take in high school that you would like to try now?
• What are some majors you are interested in?

When do Exploring Students declare?

Exploring Students declare whenever they are ready and meet the requirements for the major they plan to declare. We encourage students to declare as soon as they are ready so that they can get connected with opportunities in their new major and stay on track for graduation.

Will I be assigned to a new advisor when I declare?

Yes. When you are ready to declare, you will be assigned to a new advisor within your new major. Your new advisor will help you finalize your academic plan and connect you with opportunities in your major.

What happens if I declare a major and change my mind?

There are no limits to the number of times you can change your major here at Carroll. However, we encourage you to consider the academic implications and time to graduation before making any changes to your academic plan. You can work with an Academic Advisor within the Center for Academic Advising to prepare for changing your major again, and you are always welcome back in the Exploring Program if you need us.

Will I be on track for graduation when I declare?

Our Exploring Advisor will help you map your possible path to graduation for all of the majors you are considering. Because you will be taking introductory major courses in the majors you are exploring, courses you have already taken in the major you declare will fulfill major requirements. Any courses you have taken outside of the major will count towards elective credits or even PioCore requirements.

Myths About Exploring and Being Undecided

Being undecided about your major is common and can be beneficial. It allows you to explore various subjects, discover new interests, and gain a broader perspective before committing to a specific field.

Nobody is undecided on their major.

Starting college as undecided or exploring is normal, and you’re in good company. With over 95 areas of study, you’ll want help finding the best major for you. Many students like you embark on their college journey undecided and receive ample support to explore major options and make informed decisions.

There is an assessment that will tell me what I should major in.

While there isn’t a single test that determines your ideal major, we utilize self- assessment inventories among various tools to guide your exploration. Combining inventory results with exploring courses, regular advising meetings, and independent research helps narrow down your options.

I know what I don’t want to major in, but not what I want to major in.

Recognizing what you don’t want is a solid start. Whether you compile a list of exciting interests or methodically eliminate options, you’re on the path to narrowing down your choices. Exploring commonalities and differences among your preferences will further guide your decision-making.

Students who start undecided take longer to graduate.

At Carroll University, support and assistance in selecting a major ensures that Exploring Students graduate as timely as their peers. There are very few Exploring Students who return to Exploring after declaring a major, emphasizing the effectiveness of advising and relationship building.

I should decide on a major as soon as possible.

Many programs allow you to declare during or after your first year at Carroll University. Adding undue pressure can make the decision-making process harder, so work with your Exploring Advisor to set realistic goals and timelines.

I don’t want to give up any of my interests.

Having multiple interests doesn’t mean sacrificing your dreams. Majors often offer room for customization, and elective courses can let you explore diverse interests. Student organizations and other involvements also provide avenues to stay connected to your passions.

Selecting a major is the same as selecting a career.

Majors and careers are connected but distinct. While some degrees directly lead to specific career fields, Carroll University’s liberal arts focus prepares students for a wide range of career options by building a broad skill base.

My career will be determined by my major.

Majors at Carroll University open up various options rather than limiting your choices. Your career may evolve, and a liberal arts education equips you with transferrable skills to adapt to changing opportunities, with the understanding that job changes and career shifts are part of the modern work landscape.