<p>For a while I was sure I wanted to major in Philosophy, perhaps doubling with English. But it is senior year, and I am actually starting to love English more than I have ever enjoyed a subject - though Philosophy is still a big interest for me.</p>
<p>The problem, though, is that UCs ask for one major, some asking only for an ALTERNATIVE major. </p>
<p>Also, one of my UC essays revolves around my interest in Philosophy, so it would fit better if I put down Philosophy</p>
<p>However what I dont want, is to get into college with a declared major and have to go through a huge hassle in changing it</p>
<p>What should I put down? And are the rumors true that certain majors can actually damage/enhance your chances of getting in?</p>
<p>I'm assuming that all the UC's are similar, but I can only speak about UC Davis in particular. It's very easy to switch and/or declare and second major. You can change by taking the pre-req classes needed, then you can simply switch. </p>
<p>I don't think that English vs Phi will affect your chances at all. Go with the one that interests you the most now - you can easily change majors or add the other one later.</p>
<p>At Berkeley, it's no big deal to change from one to the other. I think this is true of UCLA and UCR as well. At all the UCs I know about, both philosophy and English are in the same college, meaning they have the same requirements, and it's generally easy to switch from one to the other.</p>
<p>The schools don't generally take into account the major you choose that much when admitting you. Put philosophy as it relates to your essay and it is a genuine interest of yours. Relax- you're fine. :)</p>
<p>The rumors you talk about might be true, but are probably not true besides in particular cases, such as within different engineering majors or something. English or philosophy would likely have zero impact on your admittance (although you did write an essay about phil, so you should just put that in case it does have any impact).</p>
<p>PS what do you mean only asking for an alternative major? It has to be an alternative to some major, one that you indicated you liked.</p>
<p>Don't worry about this issue very much. Relax. :)</p>