Exploratory Studies in the Collaborative for Student Achievement is hosting an “Exploring Majors Week” March 4-7 for students to celebrate and learn about academic opportunities on the way to declaring a major or minor.
“Exploration is an essential part of the college experience for all students, including those who have already declared a major or minor,” said Haley Richards, director of University Academic Advising Services. “This special week of events will involve actively exploring academic possibilities in dozens of CSU departments.”
She said goals include encouraging students to reflect, explore and declare a major or minor before registration opens for Fall 2024. “Exploring Majors Week” is also intended to demonstrate CSU’s commitment to helping students find their fit on campus, build a sense of belonging and engage in the campus community.
The lineup
Below are descriptions of the activities planned for each day.
MONDAY, MARCH 4:
COMPETITIVE MAJOR CLOSE-UPS
Almost half of Exploratory Studies students are exploring admission to one of CSU’s competitive majors. Dive in deep to learn more about the requirements for admission to CSU’s competitive majors, how to get involved now, and “parallel” or “alternative” majors that students may have never considered.
How to explore:
- Watch for info to drop about competitive majors and alternative paths on the Exploratory Studies Canvas page and on the Exploratory Studies website.
- Attend “Competitive Major” Drop-Ins from 1-4 p.m. in the Collaborative for Student Achievement (east side of Canvas Stadium).
- Meet with assigned Exploratory Studies advisors to explore all the alternatives and options.
TUESDAY, MARCH 5:
ACADEMIC OPTIONS FAIR
CSU has hundreds of options when it comes to majors, minors, concentrations, certificates and other academic opportunities. Stop by the Academic Options Fair to learn what CSU has to offer for a major, minor, education abroad experience or even areas to focus on for those elective credits.
How to explore:
- Rams Horn Lounge and Courtyard, Academic Village, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6:
TOUR DE MAJORS
Former Exploratory Studies students who have declared a major report that meeting with department representatives and experiencing learning spaces helps them make their official decisions. Attend an event hosted by majors you are exploring to gain greater insight into if it is a good fit for you.
How to explore:
- Open the Tour de Majors schedule.
- Put events in your calendar that sound interesting.
- Attend: Talk to people and ask questions.
THURSDAY, MARCH 7:
SHARE YOUR DECLARE EVENT
Celebrate your exploration journey by gathering with Exploratory Studies staff and students to celebrate both exploration and decision-making. There will be music, snacks, a photo booth, CAM the Ram, a Share your Declare board and more.
How to explore:
- Lory Student Center Plaza, noon to 2 p.m. Bring a friend to celebrate.
About Exploratory Studies
Exploratory Studies provides academic advising for students exploring their options and students seeking admission to CSU’s competitive-entry majors. Exploratory Studies advisors honor each student’s unique life story, guide students in their transition to college life and engage students in academic exploration and development. Academic success coordinators use holistic strategies to guide students in reflecting on and choosing a major based on their interests, values, skills and identities.
Exploration and decision-making is a life skill and continual process. One out of five first-year students enter CSU as Exploratory Students, and over half of CSU students who enter with a declared major change their major at least once before graduation.
Being engaged early in active exploration is key. About 90% of Exploratory Studies students declare a major by the end of their third semester (approximately 45 total credits), in support of CSU retention and graduation goals.
More information is available at exploratorystudies.colostate.edu.
