Dear Roadie,
I’m trying to help my son select what school to attend. He received several acceptances to schools we can more or less afford, but he is undecided about what major he’d like to pursue, which is making it harder to choose. Also, the recent headlines about college grads struggling to find employment after graduation are making us both nervous. How can I guide his decision-making and assure him that college is worth it?
— Need Guidance to Guide
Dear Need Guidance to Guide,
I feel your pain. As a parent, you always imagined helping your child choose the right college, the perfect major, and, ultimately, a career they love. But now that the time is here, the reality can feel overwhelming. Your student isn’t sure what they want to study, the deadlines are looming, and news about college graduates struggling to find jobs only adds to the anxiety. In a world where industries from engineering to agriculture are shifting, guiding your child toward a stable and fulfilling college experience and career can feel like a lot to ask.
First, take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and neither is your student. It’s completely normal to be undecided at this stage, whether about which college to attend or which major to choose.
Here are two great ways to approach the process less stressfully while supporting smart choices:
- Look for Schools That Help Build Fundamental SkillsTry shifting the focus. While choosing a good school and major is important, what’s even more critical is developing a broad set of skills that can adapt to an evolving job market. Critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and adaptability are highly valued across industries. If your student is undecided, encourage him to look for schools with hands-on learning opportunities, internships, and interdisciplinary studies, rather than fixating solely on the majors offered.Colleges with strong career services, alumni networks, and internship opportunities can also be game-changers. Before selecting a school, research how actively it connects students with real-world experience. Schools that partner with local businesses, offer co-op programs, or provide career counseling can make a difference in post-grad success.
- Reframe the Timeline on Selecting a MajorThere’s a common misconception that students must declare a major right away or risk falling behind. In reality, many colleges allow students to explore different subjects in their first year or two. Taking exploratory courses can help them make a more confident decision without unnecessary pressure, so try to avoid schools with limited offerings. Instead, look for those that offer broad degrees like business and communications.
As far as the job market goes, it’s sometimes unpredictable—and yes, changing economic conditions and the evolving job market have made it harder for some recent college graduates to find work. A recent study from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported the widest unemployment gap between new graduates and experienced degree holders since the 1990s.
However, the recent college unemployment rate is still on par with national unemployment rates, and higher education still opens doors. College graduates earn more over time than those without a degree and have lower unemployment rates and higher lifetime earnings.
The key is not just to earn a degree but rather to ensure that experience, networking, and skill-building happen along the way. Encourage your student to stay curious, embrace learning, and seek out opportunities beyond the classroom. Many of today’s in-demand jobs didn’t even exist a decade ago, so flexibility can be an asset.
Above all, remind them (and yourself) that this decision isn’t permanent. Careers evolve, interests change, and success is built over time. By focusing on adaptability, experience, and opportunity, your student can move forward with confidence—no matter where they start.
Have a perplexing college question? Email Dear Roadie for advice at dearroadie@road2college.com
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