First-year student Alexandria Coston knows that she wants to become a teacher someday. That made selecting her major an easy decision. She will pursue a degree in co-education and English and communication studies.
Coston was among nearly 70 undergraduate students who formally selected their majors as part of Major Declaration Day, Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Declaring a major is a defining milestone in a college student’s academic journey, shaping their academic and professional paths and deepening their connection to their studies.
“It’s a moment of discernment when students decide what direction they want to go and begin establishing their academic path,” said Kate Johnson, director of Student Success and Career Integration. “It gives them a sense of direction and belonging, which ultimately helps with retention because they start to feel like they’re part of something bigger than their own journey in the corner of the universe.”
The Center for Academic Success and Achievement (CASA) hosted the event at Anderson Center. Six tables were set up, each representing a different department: arts, humanities, natural sciences, business, social sciences and education. Students checked in and scanned a QR code to formally declare their majors.
Sixty students attended the event, with 58 formally declaring their major. Another 10 students completed the declaration process after the event bringing the total number of new majors to 68.
Faculty were on hand to guide students through their next steps and highlight upcoming courses, internships and events.
“By the time students get here, it's more of a celebration of the choices they’ve already made,” said Kris Deffenbacher, a professor of English and Communication Studies. “We’re glad to have new people who are invested in humanities, whether as majors or minors.”
The event offered students a chance to feel confident in their choices and meet with faculty with whom they’ll work throughout the year.
“I talked to both the people at the education and humanities table, and I felt very welcomed and secure in my decision,” Coston said. “It was nice to meet the people I’ll be seeing more often as my school year goes on.”
Undergraduates can declare their major at any time throughout the year. In the fall, CASA hosts Destination Discovery, giving students additional opportunities to explore programs, connect with faculty and peers, and feel part of the community.