Under what circumstance would you suggest a student change majors?

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The interviewer wants to know that you fully understand the gravity of a decision like changing majors. They want to see that you can guide their students wisely. If you can, give an example of a time when you suggested a student change majors. For instance, if the student struggles to keep up with coursework or seems uninterested in the subject matter, you might recommend exploring other options. Additionally, if the student's career goals have shifted and their current major no longer aligns with their aspirations, you might suggest considering a different field of study. Ultimately, let the interviewer know your goal is to ensure the student is pursuing a path that will lead to academic success and personal fulfillment.

"The situation would have to be very severe before I would recommend changing majors. That isn't a small decision. It can be costly and time-consuming. I would only recommend changing majors if the student were miserable and on the verge of dropping out altogether."

"Changing majors can be serious business, especially if the student risks losing out financially due to the decision. I would suggest a student change majors once they have completely disengaged and are uninterested in the program. I would also only suggest a change once the student is clear on the alternate major they would like to take and understand the challenges they may face by making such a decision."

"As an experienced admissions counselor, I do not feel that it is my place to discourage heavily if a student is truly unhappy with their originally chosen major. It is their life and their future career path. I will provide them with a lot of well-researched information supporting either decision. A pros and cons list, so to speak. My primary focus would be to support the decision they make in the end."

Anonymous Answer

"Only under severe circumstances would I likely suggest a major change. If I see the student is truly unhappy and on the verge of dropping out I may suggest a change. I think the biggest thing is that I would sit down with them and go over the pros and cons of each decision and support them on whatever decision they choose to go with."