Choosing a college major isn’t just about passion anymore. In 2026, students weigh financial stability and family expectations, revealing a deeper struggle between doing what they love and what feels safe.

Some students follow their passion, while others choose to study a major that will pay more.

Jerome Beecham Jr., 21, a junior at Alfred State College, found himself in that position when he decided to change his major. During his sophomore year, Beecham chose to switch his major from computer science to sports management.

“What influenced me the most is my passion for sports. I’m glad that I made the right decision to switch,” said Beecham. 

Still, the decision wasn’t easy, and Beecham initially questioned himself. 

“At first, I did regret switching because I was already in my second year of school,” he said. 

Yet, Beecham’s doubt didn’t last long. As he thought more about his future, his priorities became clearer.

“What matters more is definitely doing something I love. Also, well-paying is kind of important too, but doing something I love is #1,” he said. “Because working within the football industry while being hands-on was my dream since a child.”  

For Beecham, passion outweighs the risk. 

Jason Ryan, 21, a junior at John Jay College majoring in criminology, took a different path. 

His decision was more focused on financial stability.

“Financial stability influenced my decision to change my major, and I feel I made the right choice, considering the job market for criminology degrees is more generalized than the job market for sociology degrees,” he said. “Criminology degrees tend to make more money after receiving a bachelor’s degree compared to a master’s degree in sociology.” 

Unlike Beecham, Ryan says he never doubted his choice.

“I have not regretted my major choice nor questioned it,” he said. 

But when it comes to what really matters in the long run, his answer has shifted.

“Thinking about my future, doing something I love matters a lot more than having a high-paying stable career, cause at the end of the day, you only live once, and your well-being matters more than money,” said Ryan. “Money lives permanently. We don’t.” 

Eileen Lazala, 22, a senior at John Jay College majoring in criminology, represents another perspective, one embedded strongly in passion, but still aware of reality. 

“Passion influenced my choice of major. I’ve always wanted to help people, and I think learning about crime and the ways it affects certain communities, and educating myself, is a way that I can help in the future.”

Unlike many students, Lazala said she hasn’t struggled with doubt.

“I’ve always said that if you like what you study, it won’t be a chore, you’re gonna be interested all the time, and that’s exactly how I feel,” she said. 

Still, even with that confidence, Lazala acknowledges the tension between passion and financial reality.

“Doing something that I love matters most because when you work, it feels like you’re not working at all, but. But, in this economy, you gotta have a stable job, so it just depends, I guess,” she said. 

Her perspective brings both sides together, passion and practicality, showing how even confident decisions are shaped by real-world concerns.

This type of tension is something advisors see every day. 

Yaritma Cabral, a Senior Transfer Advisor in the Completion for Upper-Division Students Program (CUSP) at John Jay College, says there isn’t one simple answer.

“This question is a bit complex because it depends on where the student is in their life,” said Cabral. “Financial stability plays a big role in deciding on a major.” 

At the same time, Cabral often sees how outside influences shape decisions.

“Family expectations can lead to the question: Which career paths can I take with this major that would provide financial stability?” she said. 

Cabral also notes that peer pressure is another source of doubt. But, according to Cabral, doubt is common in college students, regardless of source. And sometimes the doubt results from a lack of experience within the field of a student’s study. 

“A student grew up watching shows like CSI,”  said Cabral, “so they came to John Jay to choose majors like forensic psychology or forensic science. But then, once they are deep into the major they choose, it turns out not to be something they actually like.”

Ultimately, when students feel stuck, Cabral focuses on helping them find direction.

“If they are still able to change their major, I encourage them to review all the majors,” she said. 

If a student is at the end of their college career, Cabral encourages students that there is still time to create their dream career path.  

“Experience speaks volumes on a resume,” she said. “If it comes to a point where it’s too late to change majors, the best thing is to build the student’s experience and work on the skills needed for the opportunities they look forward to.”