Going to college or university is a pretty big deal and the program or courses you choose can impact your future success, both financially and in terms of doing something that excites you.

You may already know exactly what you want to major in, or you may not. Either way, don’t panic. Many students begin college or university without a clear idea of what they want to study or what kinds of jobs they’ll be qualified for at the end of their studies.

The perfect mix
We take courses to expand our knowledge, hopefully in things we’re interested in, so we can find ways to enjoy what it is we do for a living – however far on the horizon that may be.

The perfect job covers three main points. It’s: 1) something you’re good at, 2) something other people will to pay you to do, and 3) something you’re interested in or excited about. The sweet spot is right at the center of all three.

Study what you’re good at
If you’re good at something, it may be because you’ve spent a lot of time doing it because you enjoy it or simply because it comes naturally to you. Either way, taking courses where you’re likely to get good marks can beef up your transcript and you may find that these courses lead to new opportunities. They may be requirements for another course, or you may discover new aspects of the course that lead to something you’re more interested in.

Study what other people will pay you to do
Long term, you probably want a career you’ll enjoy where you have opportunity to do new and interesting things, but there are few jobs available playing video games or ultimate frisbee (though they do exist).

Check out career fairs and look online for jobs related to what you like to do and see how other people are able to make money in related fields. You’d be surprised by the variety of jobs available, and it helps to have something to work towards.

Study what you love
School’s expensive, both in money and the time it takes to complete the coursework, so you might as well spend it doing something that you find inspiring. The best courses are sometimes the most difficult because that’s where you find room to grow, expanding your knowledge and skills.

You may be able to take electives in subjects that are outside the scope of your larger program, but ones that are fun and teach you things you never knew you were interested in. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of these opportunities when they arise.

Explore your options
Look for programs or courses that complement your strengths, attributes and interests – it can make all the difference. Choosing a path you feel comfortable with, that builds confidence and challenges you to accomplish more, can be incredibly rewarding.

The earlier you begin, the easier it is to create a map of where you want to go. And don’t worry about making wrong decisions; you can always change track if something more suitable comes up.

While the sweet spot may be where these three things collide, also consider courses which only hit two of these points. Take a look at course catalogues for different universities and see what’s out there.