Why Did You Choose Your Major? – HutchCC Students Explain Their Course of Studies

By Ximena Ayala
Staff writer
Email: thehutchinsoncollegian@gmail.com

Choosing a college major can be one of the most exciting and stressful decisions a college student makes.

For some, it’s a lifelong passion finally given direction. For others, it’s a leap of faith into the unknown. At Hutchinson Community College, students come from all walks of life, each with an unique story behind the academic path they’ve chosen.

Some HutchCC students were asked why they chose their major. Their answers offer a glimpse into the hopes, motivations, and challenges that shape the student experience and the future careers they’re building.

Staci Unruh, a part-time instructor and academic advisor at Hutchinson Community College, shares her experience for choosing the right path for her life.

“I double majored in psychology and communication,” Unruh said. “I was undecided on my major for quite a while and really enjoyed the introductory classes I took in both of these subjects, which led me to want to take more. I was always interested in a lot of different things, and still am, so I didn’t doubt that those majors were good majors for me, but also never wanted to feel limited to only certain classes.”

Unruh’s experience reflects the desire and interest of most students and professionals at HutchCC to maintain an open mind, pursue their education, and explore themselves through daily learning. For Unruh, it was the double major that allowed her to pursue her passion for learning something new every day.

“Being a life-long learner is an important part of my identity,” Unruh said.

For Maryana Flores, a Hutchinson freshman, the decision to major in accounting came naturally.

“It has always been something I enjoyed doing,” she said.

Her passion became clear after her first accounting class ended, she found herself missing it and even practicing on her own time. Encouraged by a family member who is a CPA, Flores saw accounting as both a fulfilling and practical career.

“I’ve rarely doubted my choice,” she said, “but sometimes, accounting can get confusing and a bit discouraging until you get it right.”

From high school to college, Flores remains sure of her path, not just because she’s good at it, but because she genuinely enjoys it.

Choosing a major is rarely a simple decision. For some, like Flores, it’s a steady passion that starts early. For others, like Unruh, it’s a journey of exploration and self-discovery. No matter the path, each student at HutchCC brings their own values, interests, and goals into the process. And while the road to finding the right major can be filled with uncertainty, one thing is clear: when students follow what they truly like and enjoy, it often leads not just to academic success, but to future fulfillment and happiness.

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