What factors should I consider before declaring a major in undergrad?

[vitoNova]

I wanted to major in something extremely gay like "Information Systems Management" or "Computer Science" because getting out of the military after 4 years with no transferable skills other than being a lame security guard or a cop (I was an MP), I wanted to choose a major that in my mind thought would make me lots of money.  Though my heart wasn't really into it. 

But my mom lectured the hell outta me and told me that I was a goddamn idiot if I chose that, and to instead go with my heart/instinct/gut, which was something along the lines of IA/Poli Sci.  And she was 1000% correct. 

Moral of the story: momma knows best, kids. 

[vitoNova]

If I had to do it all again, I maybe would've gone for Geography.  (but am still pretty happy with my international affairs BA)

Geography = a major that combines the human element (political/human geography) with a surprisingly technical and lab-focused element that almost ventures into STEM territory.  Of course, as an IA major my geo courses were just bare-bones basics (ie, Geopolitics 101), but some of those 300 and 400-level courses....them fools had some pretty cool toys to play with.

And also, I met some folks later on overseas who worked for the NGA, and they all seemed pretty chill.   

[vitoNova]

If I had to do it all again, I maybe would've gone for Geography.  (but am still pretty happy with my international affairs BA)

Geography = a major that combines the human element (political/human geography) with a surprisingly technical and lab-focused element that almost ventures into STEM territory.  Of course, as an IA major my geo courses were just bare-bones basics (ie, Geopolitics 101), but some of those 300 and 400-level courses....them fools had some pretty cool toys to play with.

And also, I met some folks later on overseas who worked for the NGA, and they all seemed pretty chill.   

I applied for an internship with them last week! Hopefully it goes well that would be a dream.

Word of warning: all of them served in Iraq or Afghanitan and had that 1000-yard stare.  It’s not all roses in the end