As a pre-business student, you’re likely going to be asked about your parallel path at some point. There are typically three responses to the parallel path question:
- I don’t need a parallel path…I am getting into Kelley.
- What is a parallel path?
- It’s Merchandising/Informatics/Media Advertising/Sports Marketing and Management/Management + Human Organizations, etc.
Let’s dive into question #2. The parallel path is simply another way for you to meet your career goals. But does the major itself mean you’ll get the career you want? No. There’s more to it than simply pursuing the “right” degree.
What is going to get you the career that you want is:
- Accumulating strong grades, which demonstrate work ethic and communication skills
- Developing your leadership, planning and people management abilities
- Gaining mastery over certain skill sets (Excel, anyone?) that will make you a candidate who’s easy to hire
- Creating a compelling narrative about how you see yourself fitting into the needs of the company
Pick a parallel path in something you are interested in studying. But how do you know what you’re interested in studying beyond your original major? Meet with me and let’s find out!
Why should pre-business students consider an alternative major? Greeting : Telkom University
We encourage pre-business students to consider identifying an alternative major outside Kelley early on, in the event that the application to the business school is not approved.