Millie Cohen,CCAS '19
Communications & Political Science
Did you know what you wanted to major in when you first came to GW?
No, not at all! I came in as an International Affairs major. I thought I wanted to work for the UN or be an International Lawyer like Amal Clooney, but then I took Economics and realized that this is not going to work.
How did you decide what to major in?
During my second semester, freshman year, I took alot of random classes including: Criminal Justice, Media in a Free Society, and some science classes. I realized I enjoyed Media in a Free Society but I didn't know what to do with that information. Thankfully, a Career Exploration Coach visited one of my classes and I made an appointment to speak with them further about potential majors. The Coach asked me lots of questions about my interests and skills; encouraged me to take courses related to my interests; and recommened that I take the Strong Interest Inventory.
How did self-assessments play a role in your decision making?
I completed the Strong Interest Inventory and collaborated with the Coach to make connections between my results and interests. The Coach helped me to see how I could pair my interest in Political Science with my interest in Media. This assessment confirmed my interests and allowed to me to see possibilites that I had not thought of before. From there, I was able to declare my major with confidence!
What would you recommend to a freshman or sophomore who is still deciding on a major?
I would recommend that freshmen come in as soon as possible to meet with a Coach and establish a relationship with them.
Don't be afraid to meet with the Coaches multiple times! Also come to drop-in hours when needed. There are a lot of things you will not know about until you come in.
As a freshman, I only took one assessment and I wish I had taken more.