Going into ND as an Undecided

<p>OK. We are still in the decision-making process: ND (daughter's dream school) versus U of Minn honors (very good second option). We have found out how to make ND work financially and are comfortable with this four year commitment. We are confident that during her four years at ND she would have an amazing experience and meet wonderful people. What makes us nervous is that our daughter really has no idea what major she wants to pursue and what she wants to do in the future. We understand that this can be common for freshmen. We also know that year one at ND is First Year of Studies and that she wouldn't have to confirm her major until year two. </p>

<p>Can anyone share any success stories of open-minded, yet "clueless" Undecideds going into ND and, with the help of the advisors there, finding their true stengths, passion, and road map for their career? . Thanks for sharing!</p>

<p>She could take just about any set of classes the entire first semester (or even first 2) and still graduate on time in practically any major, except if she ultimately decided to go for an Engineering degree. So if Engineering is a possibility, she should start out that way. Otherwise take a variety but opt for the “tougher” math and science classes if med school is a possibility. She has over a year to declare a major and she will experience quite a bit in that time.</p>

<p>Started out majoring in mechanical engineering. Eventually switched majors to physics. Picked up a minor in Chinese senior year. Working on a Ph.D. in chemical engineering presently. Direction? What’s that? Anyone got a map for this life thing?</p>

<p>Well, I started out as a biochem major and finished as the same, so I’m probably not the best example. I did tack on a Chinese degree along the way though. And I had plenty of friends who switched majors multiple times and still graduated on time. For example, my roommate started out in business, and after a few changes along the way (I think involving history and American studies?) ended up in art history and peace studies. And I can cite several examples of pre-meds turned arts and letters (most in law school now) and engineers turned business majors… :)</p>

<p>As Dad1717 mentioned, the only time you have to be careful is if there’s any chance she wants to go into science or engineering, in which case it’s important to take some introductory classes freshman year so that she’s not behind if that’s what she decides to do.</p>

<p>BTW, I had to make a similar decision 5 years ago when I applied to college (I was accepted to both the U of M honors program and ND). And I’m at the U now for med school, so if you have any questions about the two schools, feel free to PM me.</p>