The Salience of Exploration

According to Behavior Specialist, Laura Comroe, “It is important to perform a self-assessment of your interests and an examination of goals when choosing a college major. It is also pertinent for individuals to examine what they deeply value in work.”

When asked what urged him to choose the communication field, Dr. Fred Fitch, Kean University communications professor and faculty advisor articulated, “ Well, to be honest, I think it began back my freshman year of college. I was a stage-struck theatre major and got the lead in a play. After what I thought was a stellar performance, a speech professor congratulated me, then asked, “Are you an actor or do you think?” At first it made me angry, but that was enough to convince me to only minor in theatre and to double major in speech and English. I competed nationally in speaking events and did pretty well. So there was some significant personal affirmation about my speaking skills.”

Fitch proceeded to explain his college journey which led him through an interesting career path that has shaped his life. After majoring in speech and English, Fitch explained, “ Then I decided to pursue a career religion (theology professor and minister). I really thought I’d wind up getting a PhD in some kind of religious studies program. But, when life cleared a parenthesis for me to go back to school, I realized that what I really wanted to study was communication.”

Dr. Fitch had many insightful pieces of advice and reflection to offer. “Life experience had taught me that the secret to a lot of life’s dilemma’s was not knowing a theological system, but knowing how to say the right thing in the right way. Words bring healing, resolve conflict, make people do things that they believe themselves incapable of doing. The world didn’t need one more mediocre theologian. So, I chose communication. Good choice, I believe!” Fitch exclaimed.

Choosing a college major and a career path can be quite stressful but also exciting. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the everyday college graduate switches jobs once every three years and switches careers two to three times in their lifetime. It is important to take the time during the first two years of college to explore career options in efforts to determine a substantial educational plan to fit ones needs. Research is another key factor in this process. It pays to research the career fields of interest.