How Can I Check My Intended Major on the Common App? (And What Happens If I Choose the Wrong One?)
Ah, the Common App. That digital behemoth that looms over every high school senior like a particularly demanding college admissions counselor. You’ve spent countless hours crafting the perfect essays, meticulously detailing your extracurriculars, and praying your SAT scores don’t spontaneously combust. But then comes the dreaded question: “Intended Major.” You stare at the drop-down menu, eyes widening like a deer in headlights. “What if I choose the wrong one?” you cry, “Will my application be chucked into the digital void?” Relax, my friend! We’ve got this.
First Things First: Can They See My Intended Major?
Let’s address the elephant in the room (or should we say, the “major” in the application). Yes, colleges can see your intended major on the Common App. It’s right there, staring back at them in all its glory. And while it’s not set in stone (you can change your mind!), they do take it into consideration when making their admissions decisions. Think of it like a first impression – they’re making a judgment, even if it’s preliminary, about your academic interests and whether you’re a good fit for their programs.
So, What Happens If I Choose the Wrong Major?
Don’t panic! Choosing the wrong major on the Common App isn’t the end of the world. It’s like choosing the wrong ice cream flavor – a minor inconvenience, but not a deal-breaker. Here’s the lowdown:
- Contact the College: The best thing you can do is reach out to the college as soon as possible. Explain the situation, and they’ll likely be understanding. They may be able to adjust your application, or they might be able to provide some guidance on how to proceed. It’s always better to be upfront and communicate your intentions.
- Wait for the Final Admissions Numbers: If you’re unable to change your major before your application is reviewed, you may have to wait until the summer when the college releases its final admissions numbers. At that point, you can start the process of changing your major officially. This is a bit like playing a game of chicken with the college, but hey, sometimes you gotta play your cards right.
- Be Prepared for a Change of Plans: Just remember, even if you do get into your dream school, your intended major isn’t a binding contract. You can always change your major once you’re enrolled. This is like ordering a pizza and realizing you actually wanted a burger. You can always switch to a burger later, no harm done (unless your roommate is a dedicated pizza purist, then you might have some explaining to do).
How to Check Your Intended Major on the Common App:
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. How can you actually check what you selected on the Common App? It’s not exactly rocket science, but it can be a bit confusing if you’re a tech novice. Here’s what to do:
- Log In to Your Common App Account: This is the first step in any Common App-related quest. Head over to their website and log in using your username and password.
- Navigate to the Application Section: Once you’re logged in, you should see a section dedicated to your applications. This is where you can find all the juicy details about your submitted applications, including your intended major.
- Find the College You Applied To: Click on the specific college you want to check. You’ll see a summary of your application, including your intended major. It’s like a digital yearbook, except it’s not filled with pictures of people making awkward faces (unless you submitted a particularly embarrassing picture for your profile, in which case, I pray for your soul).
But What If I Didn’t Choose a Major?
Some colleges don’t require you to specify a major on the Common App, especially if you’re applying to a general program like the College of Arts and Sciences. In this case, you can still indicate your interests, but you won’t be forced to make a hard commitment. It’s like being invited to a party where you can either wear a costume or just show up in your regular clothes. The choice is yours!
Pro Tip: Be Honest About Your Interests
The bottom line is, be honest about your intended major on the Common App. Don’t just pick a major because you think it will impress the admissions committee. They can see right through that, and it might even hurt your chances of getting in. Think of it like trying to impress your crush by pretending to be a famous musician. It might work for a while, but eventually, the truth will come out, and then you’ll be caught with your pants down (or rather, your guitar down).
Need More Help?
If you’re still struggling with your Common App, or you’re just feeling overwhelmed by the entire college application process, don’t hesitate to reach out! There are tons of resources available, including online guides, college counselors, and even your high school guidance counselor. And if you’re really stuck, you can always ask your parents for help. Just be prepared for a barrage of questions and unsolicited advice.
But seriously, remember that you’re not alone in this journey. Millions of students have been through this before you, and they’ve all survived (and most of them even thrived!). So take a deep breath, relax, and remember that the Common App is just a stepping stone on your path to a bright future.
And if you still need some extra guidance, our JobLoving community is here to help! We’ve got a team of experts who can answer your questions, provide support, and maybe even offer a shoulder to cry on if you need it. Just remember, it’s all part of the process, and you’re doing great!