Need help deciding on a major!

Dunboyne
Sun, 20 Oct 2013 23:01:58 +0000

Economics does require calculus but it’s usually only a couple of courses. AP Calculus BC with a grade of 5 usually lets you place out of those required courses. So if you don’t have AP Calc, no problem, it only means that you will have to take the courses pre-major (or minor). If you think you’re good enough with math to pass (not ace) these courses, then you should be ok. Some colleges even have pre-calculus to get you up to speed.

Econ is more stats intensive than “math” intensive, at least in undergrad, so that might work out for you. And don’t worry, the social science aspect is the primary focus.

Yes, do look into Economics as a program of study. This might please your parents in that it’s good preparation for studying Business at a masters level, with an MBA or MA in Econ, Management, etc if you change your mind about Journalism. It’s a good program of study for a future journalist too, whether you cover business, politics, sport, entertainment, whatever. The world revolves around money, more or less.

I would say that most “practical” programs of study would involve quantitative work (STEM fields). But economics is a great choice for someone who wants practicality without the heavy math/science. And as you know, most colleges don’t offer an undergrad Business program.

Your personal statement can be amended, no? Add to it. An economics major doesn’t change your future plans to be a journalist at all. It’s excellent preparation. Figure out why that is and amend your statement, if need be.

You might want to look into a Foreign Language minor as well. Having another language is very helpful as a journalist. Consider a double minor. And whether you study Communications or English, I don’t think either is going to hurt you or help you more than the other if your plan is to enter Journalism.

So a couple ideas:
–Econ major with a double minor in Communications/English and Foreign Language.
–Communications/English major with a double minor in Economics and Foreign Language.

Obviously the Econ as a major would be a better hedge if you change your mind about journalism and decide to enter Business at a graduate level. But Comm/English is more in line with your interests. And I’m not certain how the various UCs differ in the availability of these majors/minors.

Consider going to grad school for Journalism. There are some good Masters programs. Two of the best are at Northwestern and Columbia. Work your butt off in undergrad and aim high. Who knows, maybe you can end up in New York, ready to start your career. Not a bad place to be for a journalist.