Author Date

2024-03-15

Degree Name

BA

Department

Experience Design and Management

College

Marriott School of Management

Defense Date

2024-03-08

Publication Date

2024-03-25

First Faculty Advisor

Mat Duerden

First Faculty Reader

Ramon Zabriskie

Honors Coordinator

Brian Hill

Keywords

Transformational experiences, major exploration, decision-making processes

Abstract

This thesis examines the influence of transformational experiences on decision making when it comes to choosing one’s major. Participants attended a one-on-one interview with the primary researcher where questions were asked about how they chose their major and how much they enjoy it. Participants were given the chance to tell stories about how they discovered their major and how they decided to pursue it. Results suggested that transformational experiences, internal and external factors, and mentorship led students to choose and stick with a major where they felt a sense of belonging and “fit.” When belonging and perceived fit were not present, students were dissatisfied with their major. Transformational experiences are crucial tools for instigating personal change in individuals and can be used to help in the decision-making processes of individuals seeking to make important decisions in their lives, such as choosing a major.

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