Having conversations with your child about selecting a major at their Historically Black College or University (HBCU) can be a significant and sometimes challenging process. Here are some strategies for navigating these discussions:
Listen Actively: Start by listening to your child’s thoughts, interests, and aspirations. Understand what subjects or fields they are passionate about and what career paths they envision for themselves. Allow them to express their ideas and concerns openly without judgment.
Encourage Self-Reflection: Help your child engage in self-reflection to identify their strengths, weaknesses, values, and goals. Encourage them to think about what they enjoy doing, what they excel at, and what impact they want to make in their future career.
Explore Academic Interests: Encourage your child to explore a variety of academic disciplines and courses offered at their HBCU. Encourage them to take introductory courses in different fields to get a sense of what they enjoy and where their talents lie.
Research Career Options: Explore potential career paths related to different majors. Help your child research job prospects, salary expectations, and industry trends associated with various fields of study. Discuss the skills and qualifications required for different careers to help them make informed decisions. Click HERE to explore CAU Placement Data and HERE to use our “Outcomes” tool that allows you to gather national and local labor market data. These tools will help you to make informed decisions about majors and future careers.
Consider Personal Values and Interests: Encourage your child to consider how their personal values, interests, and passions align with different majors and career paths. Discuss the importance of pursuing a career that brings them fulfillment and satisfaction beyond financial considerations.
Seek Guidance from Academic and Career Advisors: Encourage your child to meet with academic advisors or career counselors at their HBCU for guidance and support in choosing a major. These professionals can provide valuable insights, resources, and assistance in exploring academic and career options.
Discuss Long-Term Goals: Have discussions with your child about their long-term goals and how their choice of major can help them achieve those goals. Discuss potential opportunities for graduate school, internships, research projects, or other experiences that can enhance their academic and professional development.
Be Supportive and Flexible: Remember to be supportive of your child’s decisions, even if they differ from your own expectations or preferences. Keep in mind that it’s normal for students to change their majors or career paths as they explore their interests and gain new experiences.
Encourage Real-World Experiences: Encourage your child to seek out internships, volunteer opportunities, part-time jobs, or other real-world experiences related to their potential major or career interests. These experiences can provide valuable insights and help them clarify their goals and interests.
Revisit and Adjust as Needed: Recognize that choosing a major is not a one-time decision but rather a process that may evolve over time. Stay open to ongoing conversations with your child about their academic and career interests, and be prepared to revisit and adjust their plans as needed.
