Central Advising

Undeclared! It's a major decision.

Finding a program that fits your goals and values is important. But how do you know what program is right for you? Here are some ideas to help you get started:

• Gather the information about your educational/career journey in one place. Write it down, include it in an online journal, or video log it, but don't just keep all the information in your head.
• Create a milestone for yourself. Don't explore for an undefined amount of time. Most students are able to narrow down their choices in 2-3 semesters but everyone is different.
• Consider adding EDUC 1100, ARTS 1100, or IDEA 1100 in one of your first semesters to build your successful skills for university and build your self-awareness about what you would like to gain from your post-secondary experience. Talk to an academic advisor about whether these courses would fit with the programs you are curious about.

Sorting through all of the potential information about an industry or field of study you're interested in can be daunting. Here are some ways to help you find the most relevant information:

• Talk to people you know and seek out new people who are working in areas you are interested in. Try to get yourself around people whose jobs you are curious about through volunteering, informational interviewing, working part-time, or taking an experiential learning course.
• Ask people you trust for feedback. You might be surprised what they have observed about you.
• Try out some free self-awareness quizzes from Career Services, WorkBC or Job Bank Canada.
• Consider going to a networking event or sign up for a professional organization.
• Do one of the semester abroad programs or a field school.
• Speak with your instructors and ask them about their experiences and advice.
• Take time to reflect on experiences you have had and/or are having now.

Other things to consider when planning your post-secondary education and career goals:

• What are your strengths, talents, values, personality type, and interests? Can you articulate them?
• Have these changed lately? Have you discovered anything new about yourself?
• What patterns have you noticed in your choices? Why are you drawn to these choices?
• What was your reaction to the courses you are taking/have taken? Why?
• How long would you like to plan to be in school at this time?
• What career fields are you interested in? What skills, education, and experience are required by those fields?
• Who are the key employers in those fields locally? In Canada? Internationally?
• What demand is there for the career fields you are interested in?
• What has your work experience taught you about your values, needs, motivation at work?
• What work environments have you enjoyed? What work environment are you curious about?

What do I do once I decide what program I want to complete?

After deciding on a program, you will want to declare your program of study. You will need to do this before you apply to graduate. Some programs require even earlier declaration in order to enrol in program-restricted courses. Once declared, you can still make changes and change your declared goals in the future. Talk to an academic advisor about making any changes once you've declared. Learn out more about how to declare.