April 3, 2024
At Montclair State University, students are embarking on a journey to discover their ideal majors with the assistance of University College’s expert advisors through an event known as ‘Major Madness.’
Selecting a major is a pivotal decision for college students, and Montclair State University recognizes the significance of this choice by providing dedicated academic advisors who offer specialized guidance to help students explore majors that align with their interests and future career aspirations.
Having facilitated nearly 4,000 success stories over six years, Montclair State University’s program stands out as the first and only one in New Jersey tailored for undecided students. This program serves as a supportive academic environment where undergraduates can explore diverse major options to ensure they make an informed decision that resonates with their academic and professional goals.
Students at Montclair, including freshmen and transfer students who are yet to decide on a major, receive invaluable advice to prepare them academically for their chosen field of study. Johayra Granados-Roldán, an Academic Advisor at University College, encourages students to broaden their horizons beyond their existing knowledge. She emphasizes the importance of considering one’s passions and career objectives while exploring different majors that complement them.
University College offers a plethora of resources and events designed to help students gain insights into various majors, connect with peers and faculty members within those fields, and explore potential career paths and internship opportunities in collaboration with Career Services.
Lindsey Hresko, another Academic Advisor at University College, advises students to explore their options strategically, leveraging opportunities to fulfill General Education requirements while delving into classes that provide exposure to different majors. By adopting a strategic approach, students can streamline their decision-making process when it comes to selecting a major.
One of University College’s popular initiatives, “crash a class,” allows students to preview over 65 diverse course options across the campus, offering a firsthand glimpse into the array of majors and opportunities available.
Each March, Montclair State University celebrates “Major Madness,” drawing inspiration from college basketball’s March Madness to host a sports-themed event showcasing the university’s extensive range of 300 majors, minors, concentrations, and certificate programs.
During the recent Major Madness event on March 26, University College transformed the gymnasium at the Student Recreation Center into a hub of activity. Dressed as basketball referees, University College staff enthusiastically supported students as they interacted with faculty and staff to gather essential information, aiding many students in narrowing down their choices. This event serves as a pivotal moment for students to finalize their major decisions, with a significant percentage of major declarations occurring during the spring semester.
PHOTO GALLERY
- Students were equipped with an event guidebook outlining the academic offerings and layout of the event, along with crucial information about upcoming dates, fall 2024 registration, future University College programs, and ways to continue exploration through advisor appointments on Navigate.
- Students engaged in learning about the College of the Arts, exploring various academic paths and opportunities.
- Academic advisors Debora Cubias and Christina Eid shared insights on supplementary academic options with former University College student Wiktoria Kwasniak, who ultimately declared a major in Educational Foundations for Elementary Teachers.
- University Fellow Bryanna Smedley joined in the fun by playing corn hole with Rocky the Red Hawk at the Major Madness event.
- Embracing the spirit of March Madness, Montclair staff, including Hannah Terhune, Natalie López, Evelyn De Jesus-Quiles, and Tabitha Riley, participated in Major Madness festivities.
Story by Staff Writer. Photos by John J. LaRosa.
You May Also Like: