1. 5 Questions for the Department Chair of Your Major
The Department Chair is a visionary leader and spokesperson for the department
they manage. In fact, a Department Chair is more than a manager – the chair is
the gatekeeper, spokesperson, and developer. The Department Chair is
responsible for curriculum and courses, faculty appointment and supervision,
department operations, student needs, administration relationships, and
connection to the college and mission of the college. You can bet they know a lot
about your major. The department chair is responsible for both the big picture
and the small details.
At many universities the Department Chair is also an Academic Advisor. Even if
the Department Chair for your major doesn’t provide regular advisement to
students, the Chair is the perfect representative to provide valuable insight into
your major. Here are 5 questions to ask your Department Chair:
1. What makes this major appealing to students?
2. Is there an introductory course that students can take before I fully commit
to this major?
3. Are there opportunities for internships, work study, independent research,
or study abroad associated with this major?
4. Will a degree in this major require additional education or are most
students able to obtain employment after graduation?
5. What kinds of jobs do most students who graduate with a degree in this
major pursue?
BONUS:
5 Ways College Students Can Gain Knowledge In Their Career Field
1. Capstone Project
2. Research Paper/Thesis
3. Independent Research
4. Campus Club (example Sociology Club)
5. Informational Interviews
Nicki Sanders, MSW, The Packaged For Success Coach
Packaged For Success, PO Box 6368, Columbia, MD 21045
info@packagedforsuccess.com □ www.packagedforsuccess.com
“It’s OK to stumble onto your passion but you must focus on
your target to succeed.” – Nicki Sanders