Majors and Job Market - Looking for Future Proof Options

Hi folks, I'm starting to panic a little (okay a lot) about choosing a major that will still have good job prospects when I graduate from college. As a high school rising junior, I'm really focused on making the right choices for my future. Do any of you have thoughts on what some of the most 'future-proof' college majors might be?

Definitely commend your forward-thinking approach to selecting a major! Indeed, it can feel a little daunting to make such a decision at this stage, but your concerns about future prospects are very valid. The good news, however, is that there are many majors out there that are likely to remain in demand given their intrinsic connection to evolving realms of work, technology, and society.

For instance, you might want to consider majors linked to technology and data science. These are fields that are increasingly important in our data-driven world. Majors such as Computer Science, Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, or Cybersecurity might provide you with valuable and transferable skills that meet the demands of various industries.

Healthcare is another area with robust future growth projections. With an aging population, the need for various healthcare services is expected to increase, so degrees in Nursing, Physician Assistant Studies, or Public Health could also be viable options. If you prefer the technical side of healthcare, Biomedical Engineering is a rapidly growing field.

Environmental Science is another promising field considering the increasing focus on climate change and sustainability. Jobs in this field range from policy work to more hard-science positions.

Another major worth considering is Business. The skills you learn in Business (like project management, financial analysis) are transferable across industries, making a Business degree very versatile and, therefore, somewhat "future-proof."

Remember though, the most important thing is to choose a major that aligns with your interests and skills. The best way to future-proof your career isn't necessarily to predict what jobs will be in-demand, but to build skills that can be adapted to a changing job market. This includes problem-solving skills, adaptability, digital literacy, and excellent communication skills. Make sure whatever major you choose, you are taking courses that challenge you to develop these skills. It might not seem like it now, but a lot of the learning that happens in college comes from outside the classroom, from extracurricular activities, internships, and other experiences. Keep an open mind and remember that your major does not always define your career trajectory.