Staci DumoskiFor incoming students at Chapman University, the journey of selecting a major is often an exploration filled with opportunities and uncertainties. Faith Nguyen and Reid Omilian, who each entered Chapman without having decided on a major, found help navigating their academic paths through the university’s Exploratory Majors Program, which offers guidance and support to undeclared students.
Faith Nguyen’s Story
Nguyen always imagined a career in the entertainment industry. She was initially drawn to Chapman by the film program, but after exploring all her options chose to apply undeclared.
When she arrived on campus still lost in a maze of indecision about what she should study, the Exploratory Majors Program emerged as a beacon. Through tailored courses and personalized mentorship, the program provided invaluable resources for navigating the labyrinth of academic opportunities. Nguyen was able to take the time to learn about other academic options and how they could support her career goals.
Dedicated faculty members were instrumental to Nguyen’s success in choosing her major. Her First-Year Focus course was taught by Brad Petitfils, the university’s vice provost for undergraduate education, and was designed to be interdisciplinary in order to expose undeclared students to a wide variety of academic disciplines. But it was Petitfils’ commitment outside the classroom that really made a difference to Nguyen.
“He always had his office open … to give us the resources we need,” she says, underscoring the program’s commitment to nurturing student success beyond the confines of traditional academia.
From help planning class schedules, to setting up informational meetings with faculty members, to providing a supportive shoulder to lean on when things got stressful, Nguyen knew she could count on always having someone there to ask for advice.
After exploring all the options available, Nguyen declared an economics major before the end of her first year.
“I found that it’s something that I understand,” she said, highlighting the practicality and versatility of the discipline. “I’m learning about human behavior while still getting involved with business-related problems.”
By adding a minor in music business, Nguyen hopes to combine her interests and achieve the career in the entertainment industry she’s always dreamed of.
Reid Omilian’s Journey
Omilian came to Chapman with an open mind and an uncertain academic path. His first contact with the Exploratory Majors Program came before he ever stepped foot on campus, when Petitfils sent a reassuring email that outlined the resources available to him as an undeclared student.
As a first-year student, Omilian received guidance from his advisors and professors as well as from his supervisor in the provost’s office, where he worked as a student assistant. He also started reaching out to people in various departments to learn more about the programs he was interested in.
“I was advocating for myself and putting myself out there to see what I wanted to do,” he said.
After careful consideration and research, he decided on a major in communication studies.
“I’ve done a bunch of research and met with my advisor and I’ve learned a lot … I think with this degree, I can still do something within the entertainment industry as a career,” he said.
“Coming in undeclared can be really scary, and I was kind of stressed,” said Omilian, recommending that other undeclared students keep an open mind about the process. “If it doesn’t happen right away, just know that it’s not the end of the world. There are a lot of resources at Chapman to help you … just take a deep breath and set yourself up for success as much as you can.”
Finding a Path
Both Nguyen and Omilian emphasized the importance of resources and mentorship provided by Chapman University. The Exploratory Majors Program, along with supportive professors and peers, offered them the guidance and encouragement needed to make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures.
At Chapman, students can earn up to 60 units (about the end of their sophomore year) before having to declare a major. Despite the initial uncertainties, both students found their paths and acknowledged the value of exploration and resilience in the pursuit of higher education.
By embracing the exploratory spirit, students can unlock a world of possibilities, charting their courses toward fulfilling careers and personal growth. With the right guidance and resources, every student can find their place and thrive in the dynamic landscape of higher education.
Learn more about entering Chapman undeclared, or explore more than 100 major and minors available at Chapman.
