Defined by what we study

What's your major?\nI can't tell you the number of times I've been asked that question. Unfortunately we are often defined by our majors. \nIU is known for many things, business being one of them. Business majors are often viewed as money grubbing, I-Core fearing, competitive individuals. I live with a business major. I see the hard work, determination and persistence that accompany a major in business. And by the way, guys, if you're a business major, use that as your pick up line. As superficial as it seems, some girls think about the future before the first date.\nAt the opposite end of the spectrum, there are the music majors. Many might laugh at the choice to major in a talent. But I commend them for following a passion for playing even if it means little paying. I walk by the music school almost every day. The students really are talented. There's nothing better than a man with a guitar and a good voice.\nBiology majors: It's hard to imagine attending any university for more than four years, but I'd rather my life be in the hands of an over-educated perfectionist than someone who considered college one big party.\nSchool of Public and Environmental Affairs: Many consider them the cop-out "I-couldn't-handle-business majors," but I also live with a SPEA major. She just returned from a trip designed to study the South African government. You know, the place where the apartheid corrupted the government -- she was there. She has her act together.\nEducation: Do not underestimate the power of those who want to be teachers. They might have your kid in class some day. \nJournalism: I'm partially biased for this one. It's not all about making politicians look bad. It's about observing and learning about people and their experiences. If you ever get the sense the conversation is more like an interview, chances are you're talking to a journalism major. Be careful what you say. You might see it in print one day.\nHealth Science: Body image is not the only thing these people care about. They want to help people live happy, healthy lives. \nWe also have the innovative make-your-own-major folks. Some people might question why someone would attend a university that doesn't offer what you desire, but I think it takes a certain type of person to have the guts to step outside the system and take their own path. \nAnd last but not least -- exploratory: Indecision is not that bad. Contrary to popular belief, these people are doing it the right way. They're getting rid of those wonderful core classes and they're taking their time deciding. But if you're a junior and you tell me you're undecided, you may need to kick it into high gear. \nThere are hundreds of other departments I overlooked or forgot to mention. As anti-stereotype as I wish I were, I just classified people into categories. We do it everyday. \nToo often people become what they are instead of who they are. A poor man lives the life of a poor man. A successful businesswoman is known by her title in the office. And somewhere between graduating from college and entering the professional world, passions are buried.\nWhat would you say to someone if he walked up to you and asked: "Who are you?" After stating the obvious: "My name is ____________. My major is ____________," what if he replied: No, who are you? \nThe characteristics that make you unique will get you a lot further in life than any degree. Your major should be an extension of what makes you happy. You should get excited when you're learning the material. You should want to go to class. And if you doubt your major now, chances are you'll doubt it in your professional life, too. It's never too late to change your mind. Just ask my mom, she's a student, too.