What's Your Career I.Q.?

Take the majors myths quiz – three true and false questions – and discover the truth about some common myths. (Editor's Note: OK, so it isn't a proper quiz, 'cause we give you all the answers upfront, but still - you'll learn something!)

Myth 1 - Most students know their major and career goals when they enter college.  

Answer -- F

Some people may have a major or career in mind when they enter university, and a few may actually stick with these original goals. However, the majority of entering students change their minds about majors and careers several times before graduation. In fact, the average student who enters university with a declared major changes it three to five times. On the other hand, the average student who enters university with an undeclared major changes only one to two times.

Myth 2 - My major is going to lead to my career.

Answer -- F

Most employers care more about your work-related experience (e.g., part-time jobs and internships) and the skills that you have obtained than they do about your major. Unless you are planning to enter an area that requires specific technical skills, such as mechanical engineering or accounting,  you are free to choose any major that interests you. One major can lead to many different careers, and one career can be reached through many different majors. In fact, most people find themselves working in fields that are only remotely related to their majors, and it is possible to work in almost any career with any major. Research shows that more than half of all post-secondary institution graduates pursue careers that are not directly related to their major.

Myth 3 - Liberal Arts, Humanities and Science majors are usually unemployable after college.  

Answer-- F

Arts and Sciences majors usually have valuable skills in areas such as interpersonal communication, writing, research, and critical thinking. These are called transferable skills, i.e., skills that are learned in one area that can be readily utilized in a wide range of other areas. The skills that one learns in the liberal arts are skills that are sought after by many employers. Arts and Sciences majors are employed in a wide range of careers. However, the job title may not be obviously related to the title of their academic major.  

Adapted from: Berkeley University of California.