5 Tips for Double Majoring from a Double Major
By: Nancy Aguilar ‘22
Deciding to pursue a second major is a difficult decision on its own, and it can be a very tedious and lengthy process depending on which major you’d like to add to your existing curriculum. Plus —even if you are successful in adding it—the work has only just begun. In my experience, this process took months to achieve. My first major under Dornsife was International Relations and Global Business; later, I applied to the School of Cinematic Arts in August 2020. Prior to, I had months of preparation for the application entailing essay writing, storytelling and creating my own film. If you’re adding a major that is within the same school it’s probably a relatively easier process, but, sooner or later, all double majors have to deal with the same obstacle: finding balance.
To be completely honest, I haven’t quite found this balance yet myself. I was not expecting to be admitted into the film production major, so I didn’t give much thought to what I would do after I was accepted and officially became a double major. I was aware of what I wanted to do in the long-run with both of my majors, but I was oblivious to how I wanted my coursework to look and I was overwhelmed by all of the paths I could take. Even with just one major, scheduling can be very daunting because there are so many combinations of classes you can participate in to complete your degree. As a double major, the possibilities double and it can make you feel like you’re a deer in headlights.
As a recent transfer and double major, I have a good idea of the challenges you might be facing in trying to figure out what you want to do with your own degree. Here’s some advice I a have in preparation for dealing with these challenges:
1. Embrace being a double major.
It can be very easy to feel like you’re behind everyone else in the major that you’ve transferred into, but this isn’t the case. Given that I transferred into the School of Cinematic Arts in the second half of my junior year, I felt this way as well. You have to remember that everyone else is there to learn just like you. College is the time to explore and make mistakes. Don’t be discouraged to ask questions and give your own opinion about subjects. Hype yourself up! It’s extremely cool to be a transfer and it’s an incredible feat to be a double major. You’re doing hard work so be proud of yourself!
2. Research your class requirements and classes.
It seems like a no-brainer, but it’s always a good idea to research your majors ahead of time to be prepared for the courses that you need to accomplish and the many pathways that you can take to get there. Certain majors are more complex than others in terms of their curriculum, so it’s always a great idea to plan ahead. For example, in film, the classes from a previous semester directly overlap with classes from the upcoming semester, and this wasn’t something that I was aware of when I was taking courses. I suggest making four year plans every semester and consistently updating and checking them so that you ensure that you are taking the classes you need and want, in the most efficient and convenient way possible for you.
3. It’s a marathon, not a race.
The key to balance—in my experience—is to be patient and not overwork yourself. To elaborate, I believe a good balance is to focus on one thing outside of class (like internships, fellowships, retreats jobs, etc.) during a semester in your undergraduate years to test the waters of each major and see what kinds of work and positions you really like. Then, start narrowing your scope and focusing on what field of work you’d like to pursue post-graduation. Meanwhile, you’re building up your experience level and your resume.
4. Get to know your faculty and students in both majors.
Even though online websites and databases can be really helpful, students and faculty are always the best resources because they’ve lived the experiences and oftent know the rules and guidelines better than anyone. Besides building up your network and establishing valuable connections, it’s a great way to know the special tips and tricks to your specific major, and get you where you want to be in the most effective and efficient way possible. Even if you’re a shy person, you can find a way to get out of your comfort zone and get this done. As a shy person myself, starting is always the most difficult part. But once you get started it’s not ever as difficult as you think. And there are many work arounds that can make the experience easier. For example, you can establish a buddy system where you and a friend meet new people together and hype each other up! This can make that initial connection go smoother and break the ice.
5. Seek guidance from other double majors and transfer students.
Remember that you are not alone. You’re not the only double major or transfer student in your major, even though it may seem like you are. Reach out to students that are in similar situations as you because I guarantee that they are going through the same problems and turmoil. It’s a great way to find emotional support, but they might also have the answers to your questions about the curriculum and classes. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed in a college with so much life and activity happening around you, but remember that we are a community, and students and faculty are there to support you. You can reach out to me on Instagram as well; I’m happy to help in any way that I can!
As cheesy as it may sound, it’s your experience, so there’s no right or wrong way to go about it. Relax, take a breather and trust in yourself. Pursue what you’re interested in and don’t let doubt, mistakes or negative energy get in your way. You got this!
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