The thought of college is exciting enough for high school students nearing graduation, thanks to the prospect of more freedom and new opportunities. But when you’re choosing a college, and then deciding on a major, and then actually signing up for courses, it can all get a little overwhelming – and the process can move quickly. That’s why it’s important to remember one key thing: College is the first big step toward your future career.

“All students will want to make sure the college they choose feels like a fit, aligning with their career interests and goals,” says Brad McDonald, Associate Director of Career Development at Full Sail. “It’s important to commit to learning about your desired industry, and equally important to keep an open mind, understanding that the industries we serve are always changing and growing in new ways.”

Generally, what you decide to study in college relates to what you want to do after you graduate, and different schools have different specialties, so it’s important to do your research and find the right fit. Talk with career counselors, visit college campuses, and read about each school’s specific offerings.

It’s okay if you don’t have everything figured out on day one: “No one should feel locked into one career track when they enroll. That’s one of my favorite things about Full Sail; creative students learning about new career paths or unlocking a new skill set or aptitude while in school. It’s still a serious decision, and should be made with great deliberation, including discussions with Education, Academic Advising, or Career Development.”

Every step you take in college is a step toward your future. Even if your career goals change, you can always still be working on your professionalism: “You don’t have to know exactly what area of your industry you want to pursue,” says Brad. “But, you should be intent on learning all that you can and positioning yourself as a professional (branding, social media presence, research, etc.) to find success in your industry of choice.”

Still unsure? Check out our guide on how to choose the right college for you.