<p>There is enormous pressure on kids now to focus early on the major. This drive toward focus in many cases is entirely premature. Many kids feel pressured to proclaim with great confidence what they will major in, but inside they have many doubts. Ideally, college should be a place for discovery. I realize that the economics of a college education drive many to feel that they must commit and focus very early, but for so many students, the initial goal does change. There is no practical difference between a) going to college undecided, and b) going to college proclaiming an intention to major in X and then changing one’s mind, as millions do.</p>
<p>Do not worry at all. Of course she’ll grow/mature a lot the first year of college (at first I thought you were talking about a college freshman). You will notice changes from now and August when she heads off to her college. Be prepared for some doubts about actually going to college next summer- cold feet are not uncommon but it works out.</p>
<p>Regarding a major- many or most entering freshmen will change the major after experiencing college courses. I thought your question would be about becoming more adult- freshmen learn a ton of coping skills with dorm life, college freedoms et al.</p>
<p>UW-Madison, a public flagship, admits students to the university as a whole, regardless of proposed major. Students can’t game the system by choosing a major easy to get into and then switching later or having the admission rescinded. The major is supposed to be declared before taking some upper level courses in the major but the reality is that it needs to be officially declared to graduate (during the final semester at least). But don’t worry if everything appeals to her. Then have her choose schools where she has flexibility.</p>
<p>It is important for HS seniors to have an idea of the fields that most interest them so a school with the major(s) can be chosen. The biggest decision is if math/sciences or social sciences/humanities most appeal to a student. You want to be sure a school is strong in the general area of interest.</p>
<p>In a way, perhaps it is good that a student does not have his/her heart set on a particular major since the 1st choice is not always the best fit. It often takes college level coursework to decide.</p>