What I would tell my daughter about picking a major if she would tolerate me talking about college for more than 5 seconds.

Choosing a major in college can be overwhelming, especially when it feels like this decision will impact the rest of your life. For me, the decision to pursue a major in Photography with a minor in Communications was driven by my love for visual storytelling. My journey started with a childhood obsession: family snapshots. These photos weren’t just images; they were stories told by my parents and grandparents. This early fascination shaped my academic path and career choice.

From hours spent poring over family photo albums, I realized that photography was about more than just capturing moments—it was about telling stories. This passion guided my decision-making when choosing my college major. Here’s how I broke it down, step by step, to help you choose the right major too.

1. Are You a Natural?

When I first picked up a camera, it felt intuitive. While my early photos could be a bit blurry or grainy, I quickly grasped the basics of composition and felt confident that I could excel in the field. Your major should feel natural to you. If working in that field feels more like flowing with the current rather than against it, you’ve found something worth pursuing.

2. Do You Actually Enjoy It?

Photography wasn’t just a hobby for me—it was a passion. In high school, I would often stay late in the darkroom, captivated by the process. My teacher noticed my dedication and asked me to join the photography club. This was a clear sign that photography was more than just a hobby. Make sure your major is something you enjoy so much that you’d engage with it even outside of the classroom.

3. Will This Major Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals?

While photography was my passion, I knew it wasn’t always the most stable career path. To add more versatility to my education, I minored in Communications. This combination allowed me to pursue creative work while gaining skills in writing, marketing, and video production—fields with potentially more stable financial prospects. When choosing your major, it’s important to think about both your passion and the potential financial opportunities it offers.

4. Do You Like the People in That Major?

The people you spend time with in college can significantly impact your experience. In my photography and communications courses, I found myself surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared my passion for storytelling. We collaborated, critiqued each other’s work, and pushed each other to make thought-provoking work. Think about whether the people in your major inspire you—this can make or break your experience.

5. Will This Major Give You the College Experience You Want?

Photography gave me the freedom to explore beyond the classroom, while Communications grounded me in essential media and research skills. Your major will shape your college experience, so ask yourself: Will it allow you to live the life you want in college? Some majors demand rigorous studying, while others offer more flexibility.