Nationally, over half of college freshman change their major at least once during college. This change can result in added expense and extended time to finish a degree; however, by entering the Exploratory Program at IWU, a student can wisely explore their options before making a commitment to a specific major. Whether deciding between two majors, realizing a major isn't a good fit, or not knowing which direction to go because of too many options, students can benefit from the Exploratory Program.
Beginning the college experience in the Exploratory Program can be just as effective, timely, and cost-effective as starting with a major. If pursued with intention and care, confident Exploratory students are more likely to succeed than those who are uncertain, yet declared. The Exploratory Program encourages students to strategically explore their options while listening to God’s direction for their life.
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Life Calling Opportunities
The Life Calling and Integrative Learning division provides an academic home for students who are engaged in the process of investigating their options. In order to declare a major, a student needs to develop sense of calling. This process happens by gaining an understanding of your God-given design, strengths, and abilities, which can be best explored as part of the general courses required for all students.
When Exploratory students concentrate on their Life Calling and general education courses during the first year of college, they will likely declare a major, are less likely to change their major, and they will graduate on time. The Exploratory Program offers many opportunities to support students throughout this exciting journey of discovery, including:
- Life Calling Courses: Life Calling provides a variety of courses to help students explore their life calling in the classroom. These courses include Introduction to Life Calling (LFC-150), Life Calling: Exploration(LFC-100), Life Calling: Connection (LFC-200), Life Calling: Interaction (LFC-300), and Life Calling: Transition (LFC-400).
- Specialized Academic Advisors: These professionals help Exploratory students strategically select courses that explore their interests while also satisfying General Education requirements.
- Life Coaching: Indiana Wesleyan has supported the Life Coaching program for twelve years and it has proven a valuable resource for students who are “stuck” and seeking direction. Life Coaches are available and trained to empower the student to make better decisions about their future. These sessions occur in a one-on-one, personal setting.
Life Calling Model
Dr. Bill Millard’s model for life calling focuses on three areas: Foundational Values, Unique Design, and Personal Mission. Foundational Values explores the integration of faith, character, and service in determining an individual’s worldview and beliefs that guide their actions. Unique Design integrates student’s strengths, passions, and experiences to better understand who God created them to be, as well as to equip them to serve in effective, fulfilling ways. Personal Mission prompts individuals to assess the needs in the world around them, establish their vision for change, and commit to actions related to those needs and vision. The combination of these areas is where and how you discover your life calling. In other words, “What has the Caller created you to do?”
