The anxiety that comes along with a child possibly disappointing his or her parents is high among college students. This makes students uneasy when discussing college related material with their parents.
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When it comes to talking to your parents about changing majors, I’m an expert. In the span of four years at Valdosta State University, I have changed my major three times. I started in Business and ended up with English/Journalism.

   There was a downside to this, because I have to complete an extra year to finish my degree.

   If your parents are like mine, they want you to major in the most practical field of study, one that ensures a job. The first time I told my parents I wanted to change my major, I was so unprepared!

   Here are a few simple steps to follow when informing your parents you are changing majors.    Follow these steps and the conversation should go smoothly.

   Step 1: Talk early.
   It’s like a Band-Aid. The longer you wait, the more painful it becomes. Don’t wait until the last minute to tell your parents you’re not happy with your field of study. Take the initiative to open the discussion and lead the conversation.

   Step 2: Do your research.
   It is important to know why you want to change your major in the first place. Once you’ve figured it out, the next step in conducting your research is to figure out what major you want to change to. Talk to your adviser and discuss the pros and cons of making the switch.�
   Also, talk to some professors in the new field of study you’ve decided on. Take everything into consideration. Keep your credits in mind as well as tuition rates/issues. Keep in mind you might be in college a little longer, but with careful planning, you don’t have to be.

   Step 3: Lead with facts, not emotion.
   Anytime we talk to our parents, we tend to get emotional, especially when it’s something important that we want to be heard on. Lay out all the particulars and results of your research.    Your parents will take you a lot more seriously if you have facts to present instead of just saying “because I want to.”

   Step 4: Reassurance.
   If your parents are still a little apprehensive about the switch, reassure them that you will continue to do your research and that you will answer any questions they may have. Assure them, repeatedly, that you have a plan.

   Step 5: Ask for their support.
   In the end, your parents’ approval is significant. After you have laid it all out, ask for them to support you. If you are an independent free-spirit like I am, you will still change majors regardless of their support or not.   Let them know that you will change your major, but their support is very much desired.

   If you follow just a few of these simple steps, you can avoid an awkward and tense conversation. After all, it may be their money, but it’s your life.