By Nacole Battee/reporter

One South campus counselor is concerned students could be prolonging college or dropping out because of the difficulty of choosing a major.

Incoming freshmen on TCC campuses can avoid this problem, Monica Carrasco-Bettle, coordinator of the South Campus career center, said. And in case this scenario seems familiar, she said it is not too late.

Having worked with several students who had difficulty choosing a major, Bettle said timing is the key,

“ The earlier students plan, the more successful the outcome will be in obtaining a degree,” she said.

Bettle said she strongly believes students should start taking steps toward reaching goals as freshmen. She said students who struggle with deciding should seek help at a career center on one of the TCC campuses.

Counselors will provide a career assessment and personality and interest testing to promote self-discovery. In addition, The Occupational Outlook Handbook is available on all four campuses to match students’ interest to satisfying careers.

Bettle wants students to be assertive in choosing.

“ Find out what likes and dislikes there may be before entering a major,” she said. “Do not waste time in a field that will not bring you happiness.”

To help with the decision making, Bettle said students should attend career success seminars, join organizations, intern, volunteer, participate in a mock interview or develop a network of colleagues.

Each fall, students should visit the career center to track the previous semester’s progress, Bettle said.

Sophomores should start collecting recommendations and prepare for interviews. Juniors should take leadership roles on campus and prepare resumes. Seniors should schedule interviews, gather salary information and evaluate job offers.

“ No matter where you stand on your future, decided or unsure, start taking steps to reach your goals,” she said.

Each TCC campus has a career center available to work with students having these difficulties.

Bettle can be reached on the South Campus at 817-515-4737 and by e-mail at monica.bettle@tccd.edu.