The major exploration process for undecided students at The University of Texas at Austin can feel daunting. With so many options, how can you know you’re making the right decision if you haven’t had much experience with a major’s subject matter? Interdisciplinary Studies Week (ISW) allows students in the School of Undergraduate Studies (UGS) to take a major for a test drive.

For the fourth year, the Senate of College Councils and Undergraduate Studies Council (UGSC) matched UGS students with a mentor enrolled in the major they’re interested in pursuing. Undecided students signed up for a major they wanted to explore; the Senate of College Council’s academic enrichment committee then paired those students with a suitable mentor. Students then went to class with their mentor to experience what the major was all about. This unique event gave undeclared students the chance to try out a major before officially applying to transfer.

Mariel Calara made her major decision after shadowing a mentor during ISW in 2018. As an undecided freshman, Calara shadowed a student studying management information systems in the McCombs School of Business. The major covers topics in business and computer science, two subjects that piqued Calara’s interest. Her mentor showed her past projects and syllabi, and they discussed degree plans and career options. While she enjoyed her time as a mentee, Calara decided the major wasn’t a good fit and is now majoring in communications and leadership in the Moody College of Communications. Following her experience with ISW as a freshman, Calara wanted to serve as a mentor this year.

“My experience with Interdisciplinary Studies Week has empowered me to provide the same unique opportunity of major exploration to other undecided students,” said Calara. “I didn’t know it at the time, but ISW was a turning point in my freshman year. Because it led me to where I am today, I didn’t hesitate to sign up to be a mentor. The least I could do was give back to an event that served as a launchpad for my journey of self-discovery. My mentoring experience allowed me to continue to grow and reinforce the importance of finding a major you love and the rewards of exploring and trying new things.”