Applying as Undecided: Pros and Cons

Could really use some guidance right now. Does applying undecided to a college hurt your chances of getting in? Tbh, I have a bunch of interests but I’m nowhere near ready to commit to a major.

First, don't stress too much about not having a specific major in mind yet. It's completely normal to have multiple interests and be uncertain about which path to choose. As far as applying undecided goes, it varies depending on the college. For some schools, applying undecided allows admissions officers to focus on your overall application and experiences, rather than your aptitude in a particular field.

However, at some colleges, applying to a specific major might help your chances, especially if that major is less competitive within the institution. If you have an idea of a few majors you're considering, you could choose one to increase your chances, but it's not recommended to choose something just for the sake of applying to a specific major.

One strategy is to look at colleges that emphasize flexibility in their curriculum. Some schools make it easy to change your major or encourage exploration before committing, so you don't feel trapped in a specific field. Such colleges often have strong interdisciplinary programs that allow you to combine your interests (think Brown's Open Curriculum). Lastly, make sure to showcase your diverse interests in your application to demonstrate your curiosity and intellectual vitality, regardless of the major you choose.

Remember, many students change their major at least once during college, so it's important to find a college that offers opportunities in multiple areas that interest you. Good luck!