Undecided? - Open Option!

Still thinking about what you want to study? Worried about that? Parents worried about that?

Don’t fret! You are among the majority, and you are why universities exist. About 25 percent of the students that enter Iowa State University (or most any university for that matter) have not chosen a major. Nearly half of the students that express interest in Iowa State are still thinking about a major when they contact us. A large percentage of students that enter a university with a major change their major within three semesters.

Exploring the vast universe of educational possibilities is normal for students finishing high school and entering college. This is normal. Universities provide options that are far beyond what you will find at even the best high schools. You will see and experience things in your first year at the university that you never dreamed existed. One of those things might become your life’s interest.

You owe it to yourself to go to school where you can explore the range of opportunities available in life. A university is that kind of place. A university is here to expand your options and help you see how those options fit together with your dreams, plans, and future opportunities.

The Open Option program at Iowa State University is a destination of choice for students that are still exploring their opportunities. Entering as an Open Option major provides you:

1. Access to a staff of professional advisors that are specially trained and do nothing but help students explore the opportunities that might fit their interests. You will get your own adviser – someone who will talk to you about your interests and help you find the courses, organizations, and opportunities that you seek.
2. A complete and well-funded student financial aid office to help you meet your financial needs with scholarships, financial assistance, and employment opportunities.
3. A career exploration program that provides courses and counseling to help you connect your interests to majors and specialties that lead to careers and opportunities.
4. Over 700 student clubs and organization that provide professional insights, career opportunities, recreational options, and the chance to be a part of your community.
5. World class faculty that provide instruction on the cutting edge of their fields, research opportunities, and personal advice on how to attain your goals.
6. Internships and career services to help you position yourself to launch your career right out of the gate as you move from the university into the career world or graduate school. Iowa State University has one of the highest sustained placement rates of any educational institution you will find.

It is a big universe out there. If you are still deciding on a major, don’t you owe it to yourself to major in Open Option at Iowa State University – where you can explore all of your options and discover opportunities for a lifetime?