Episode 27: The Psychology Behind Picking the Right Major: How Choosing Early Builds Confidence, Momentum, and Long-Term Success

Episode 27: The Psychology Behind Picking the Right Major: How Choosing Early Builds Confidence, Momentum, and Long-Term Success 

Choosing a college major isn’t just a box to check—it’s a powerful decision that shapes your academic focus, career trajectory, and personal growth. In this episode, Professor Jeff Hastings breaks down the psychology behind major selection and explains why picking a path early—even if it’s not perfect—can dramatically increase motivation, confidence, and long-term success.

We’ll discuss the pitfalls of drifting through college undecided, how to explore your interests in a structured way, and why students who align their education with a meaningful goal are more likely to thrive. Plus, we explore future career trends—including the rise of AI and the resurgence of skilled trades—and share resources that help you get clear on what direction is right for you.

Show Notes – Topics Covered:

• Why choosing a major early helps you perform better academically
• Real-world examples of students who found direction late—and what it cost them
• Questions to help clarify your interests, values, and career goals
• Common college majors and what careers they lead to
• How to use LinkedIn and career centers to explore professional paths
• Reliable personality/career assessments (and why MBTI isn’t one of them)
• The impact of AI on the job market and new career paths emerging now
• Why skilled trades are making a comeback
• How purpose increases student satisfaction and success (Duffy et al., 2015 study)

Resources Mentioned:

• Career Exploration Worksheet (available in show notes)
• O*NET Interest Profiler: https://www.mynextmove.org/explore/ip
• CliftonStrengths Assessment: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths
• LinkedIn Career Explorer Tool: https://linkedin.github.io/career-explorer
• Your college’s career services department or counseling center