If you’re unhappy with your college major and looking for a change, you’re not alone. According to a 2018 report from the National Center for Education Statistics, 30% of undergraduates who declared a major switched it at least once within three years. Even after declaring a new major, 10% of students changed it again.
You may be wondering: Of the infinite possibilities, how do I choose the right college major for me? Former gifted teacher Ruth Coney says the answer lies within your personality.
While pursuing her master’s degree, the 78-year-old discovered the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator test. “Of all the general tests available, Myers-Briggs is the best indicator of a person’s basic personality,” she said.
The questionnaire determines personality based on these four categories:
- Introversion vs. Extroversion
- Sensing vs. Intuition
- Thinking vs. Feeling
- Judging vs. Perceiving
The end result is a four-letter code based on the four traits that best describe you.
Coney found the test so accurate, she created her own version for middle schoolers. She believes it allows students to understand their unique gifts, thus “helping them see the best fit for their future career.”
“When we’re doing what we were designed to do, we are fulfilled. We are not happy doing things that are not natural to us.” – Ruth Coney
What are you waiting for? Take the test here, and read on to find out the perfect college major for your personality.
The Architect (INTJ) – Computer Science
INTJs are efficient analysts that prefer to work alone. They are also very creative and interested in new ideas. “I could see them doing research,” said Coney. “They would stick with an experiment for years.” The educator also suggested computer science or “anything dealing with technology.”
The Commander (ENTJ) – Business
ENTJs are natural leaders that like to take charge. Working as an executive or CEO would be a great fit for this type. “Business leaders need to have a TJ to be successful,” noted Coney.
The Logician (INTP) – Biology
INTPs are logical, unique and independent. They enjoy pondering the mysteries of the world and identifying patterns, making them born scientists.
The Debater (ENTP) – Political Science
ENTPs are quite rare. They’re usually very knowledgeable, and they love to discuss their views in detail. Often playing the devil’s advocate for fun, naturally, a degree in political science would be ideal for these future lawyers.
The Advocate (INFJ) – Psychology
INFJs are gentle, caring and guided by personal values. They often go into fields where they can uplift others, such as counseling.
The Protagonist (ENFJ) – Education
ENFJs strive to have a positive impact on others and are natural leaders. Consequently, they make great educators. “They tend to want to work with children or be in places where they can be creative,” said Coney.
The Mediator (INFP) – English
INFPs may seem quiet, but they’re very imaginative, and they often get lost in their rich inner worlds. “They’re usually very creative people,” said Coney. Writing would be a good fit for this type, as “they think of wonderful ideas that other people aren’t going to think of.”
The Campaigner (ENFP) – Communications
ENFPs are friendly and creative, but also sensitive. This personality could thrive in many careers; however, journalism would be a great fit, as it allows them to balance creativity and socialization. Coney also mentioned real estate for this outgoing type.
The Logistician (ISTJ) – Engineering
ISTJs are serious, logical and hardworking. People who go into “engineering, math, or technical skills like plumbing and electrical construction” tend to be of this personality type.
The Executive (ESTJ) – Economics
ESTJs are honest, hardworking and extremely organized. They have a clear sense of right and wrong, and they enjoy being role models. A career in finance would suit this type, as they would be great stockbrokers or financial counselors.
The Defender (ISFJ) – Nursing
ISFJs are warm and kind, but they’re also very responsible. The medical field would be a natural fit for this personality, “especially in hospice settings or as caregivers to the elderly,” said Coney.
The Consul (ESFJ) – Human Resources
ESFJs are naturally outgoing and willing to help others, so a career in human resources would certainly be a viable path. A job in education or real estate would also suit these social butterflies.
The Virtuoso (ISTP) – Kinesiology
ISTPs love working with their hands and helping others, making kinesiology their perfect major. ISTPs also make great mechanics, carpenters and engineers.
The Entrepreneur (ESTP) – Forestry
ESTPs are spontaneous, sociable and dislike structured environments. A forest ranger would be an ideal job for this type, as they don’t want to be stuck behind a desk. They would also excel in construction or fitness.
The Adventurer (ISFP) – Art
ISFPs are open minded and creative. Often lovers of aesthetics and beauty, they are natural artists. Graphic design would also be a viable path for this type.
The Entertainer (ESFP) – Marketing
ESFPs are great communicators and love to be the center of attention. Often very charismatic, this type would “excel in sales” or even theater.
