Redefining Student Success
Can you go to college undecided?
Yes, and here's how BGSU supports students
Entering college is a proud milestone for high school graduates and their families. But a common question often looms large: Is it OK to start college undecided?
With hundreds of career paths to choose from, declaring a major can feel like a high-stakes decision. At Bowling Green State University, students who begin without a declared major receive structured support through Life Design, which helps them explore options and choose a path with confidence.
BGSU sophomore Madeline Heidler, arrived on campus without a declared major. Here's how she found her path:
Q: What was it like arriving on campus as an undecided student?
A: It was really intimidating. Despite knowing how much support BGSU offers, I had this fear that I wouldn't be as successful as my classmates who selected a major. My experience turned out to be the exact opposite of that fear.
Q: What would you say to other students or parents who are worried about starting college undecided?
A: First, I understand the anxiety because I lived it. Throughout my entire fall semester, the question was always in the back of my mind – 'What am I going to declare as my major?' My top three choices – early childhood education, environmental law and tourism, hospitality and event management – couldn't have been more different.
However, BGSU handles this differently than other universities. Instead of just taking random general education classes and hoping that a career path sticks, I was paired with a Life Design coach. They helped me figure out who I was, my leadership style and my creative strengths. I actually got to prototype multiple career paths before committing to the right fit.
Q: Looking back at your time in the Deciding Student Program, what stands out the most?
A: My Life Design coach, David, was the true difference-maker. He was constantly reassuring me, saying, 'Madeline, you are fine. You are doing way better than you think you are. Don't be so hard on yourself.' That personal support, combined with his knowledge of various programs, helped me find my way.
Q: What is the Life Design experience like for undecided students?
A: Life design is low-stakes, high-reward. It's not a typical class where you're stressed about grades or a paper; you are there to gain skills for the workforce and for life after college.
It was also a great way to meet people. I realized I wasn't alone in my uncertainty, and I actually met my best friend through the program.
To the parents, Life Design is perfect for everyone, not just undecided students. It connects students with a coach who offers one-on-one support during that big transition to college.
Q: How long did it take you to declare a major?
A: Just one semester! I networked and participated in Life Design and informational interviews in the fall, and I took my first class in tourism, hospitality, and event management in the spring. It was an immediate 'no-brainer' that I'd found the program for me. I couldn't have reached that clarity so quickly without the Deciding Student Program and my Life Design coach.
Quick facts about undecided students and Bowling Green's Life Design program:
- 91% of BGSU students in the Deciding Student Program declare a major or significantly narrow their choices after their first semester
- BGSU is a national leader in Life Design, a comprehensive program grounded in design thinking principles with courses, one-on-one coaching, career readiness and integration across academic programs.
- What if you picked the wrong major? Student Research Group reports that nearly 80% of college students changed their major at least once. 1 in 10 changed their major more than once
For more information on the Deciding Student Program at BGSU or to learn more about Life Design, visit www.BGSU.edu or contact the Admissions Office at 419-372-2478.
Updated: 02/03/2026 10:08AM