Exploratory Student Advising

Discover, Define, Declare: Your Journey Starts Here.

Not every student begins their college journey with a clear decision about their major—and that’s okay. At Westfield State, our Exploratory program provides a supportive environment for students to discover their passions, explore academic interests, and identify a pathway that aligns with their goals.

Choosing the Exploratory option can be a valuable first step toward selecting a major that maximizes your potential for success while fulfilling the requirements for your future career. With plenty of time to explore, you’ll have the guidance and resources needed to make an informed and confident decision about your academic future.

Why Choose to be Exploratory?

Time to explore your interests
Personalized guidance
Strategic decision-making
Career alignment

How to Choose a Major: Helpful Steps to Guide Your Decision

Choosing a major is an important decision that can shape your academic and career future. It’s natural to feel uncertain, but with a thoughtful approach, you can identify a path that aligns with your interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Follow these steps to help you explore your options and make an informed choice.

Reflect on your academic strengths by reviewing courses you’ve taken in both high school and college.
Write down your academic and career goals to help clarify what you want to achieve.
Visit the Office of Academic Advising and the Career Center for guidance and resources.
Attend the Majors and Minors Fair offered every fall to explore your options and learn more about different programs.
Refine your choices by identifying the majors that truly interest you.
Connect with the department chair or faculty members in the department that interests you most to learn more about the major and potential career paths.

The Office of Academic Advising and Transfer Transition

The Office of Academic Advising and Transfer Transition is dedicated to supporting students throughout their academic journey. We provide a welcoming space where students can explore academic pathways, receive personalized guidance, and access resources to help them thrive. Exploratory students are assigned a point of contact within our office to ensure consistent support as they navigate their options. All students are encouraged to drop in or schedule an appointment with a professional advisor for assistance with course registration, academic planning, and more.