Q: Should I double major?

Dear Reader,

Thank you so much for asking this question! It’s a big one, and I’m glad you’re thinking it through carefully—because I definitely did. In fact, it’s something I spent a lot of time reflecting on and discussing with advisors and professors. Eventually, I chose to double major, and while I’m happy with that decision, it wasn’t one I made lightly. Whether or not it’s the right move for you really depends on a few important factors.

Before diving into the logistics, ask yourself: why are you considering a double major in the first place? Is it because you’re genuinely passionate about both subjects? Because you think it’ll make you stand out on a resume? Or because you’re not quite sure what you want to do and figure two majors might keep more doors open?

None of these answers are inherently right or wrong, but getting clarity on your motivation is essential. For me, I chose to double major because both fields were deeply interesting and personally fulfilling—not because I wanted to impress anyone or collect extra credentials. That internal motivation has been key to keeping me energized and focused, especially during the tougher semesters.

Here’s a fun fact that not everyone realizes: only one major is listed on your physical diploma. Your transcript will reflect both, of course, but if you’re picturing two degrees hanging on your wall, that’s not how it works. So, if your motivation is partly about recognition, this is something to keep in mind. Employers and grad schools will definitely see both majors on your record, but the diploma itself may not shout it out the way you expect.

It’s also important to know what you’re signing up for. A double major is about fitting two sets of requirements into one college experience. This can affect everything from your schedule flexibility to your ability to study abroad, do internships, or simply take electives for fun.

Some majors overlap more than others, which can make a double major more manageable. This is where talking to your advisor is super helpful. They can help you map out whether a double major is realistically doable within your graduation timeline!

There’s no universal answer to whether a double major is “worth it”—it depends on what you’re looking to get out of it. Some employers love to see a double major, especially if the combination shows versatility. In other fields, relevant experience or portfolio work might matter more than your exact major.

The biggest takeaway here is this: don’t do it just to say you did it. A double major can absolutely be rewarding, but it also takes work, time, and sometimes, a bit of sacrifice. If you’re excited about both subjects and can handle the workload, it might be the right move for you. But if it’s going to add stress or pull you away from other opportunities—like internships, research, or simply enjoying college life—it’s worth reconsidering.

At the end of the day, your college experience is about more than just the boxes you check off. Whether you choose one major or two, the most important thing is that you’re engaged, learning, and building a path that feels meaningful to you. Take your time, do your research, and remember: a single major doesn’t limit your potential, and a double major doesn’t guarantee success. The value comes from how you use what you learn—not just what shows up on your transcript.

Good luck with your decision, and trust yourself to make the choice that’s right for you. You’ve got this!

Wishing you the best of luck,

Annabel Groseclose ‘27