Torn between ART and SCIENCE. Can I do both?

I would really love to be answering questions from readers, but those have been few and far between... so I decided to address a question from a forum that I participate on. A forum poster writes:

I won't go into a lengthy explanation. I have a passion for the arts as well as a passion for knowledge and science. I am an undeclared major and am trying to decide which to devote my life to

I have contemplated double majoring, but it seems like I'd be spreading myself too thin in completely opposite fields. I'd rather be able to focus all of my energy on one and be the best at it. Its really hard, because it seems like the more logical choice would be to go with science and do art as a hobby...but I can't really live with that. Every time I meet an art major I get super jealous of what they get to do. But at the same time I would feel inadequate academically as an art major. Its really confusing.

So is there any one else struggling with this kind of decision? How do you know which path you're supposed to take? Is there a realistic way I could do BOTH?

For science I'm considering majoring in biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, psychology (not a B.S. but still science-y enough) or even physics. I don't know if any of those can go well with art. Help?

Trying to figure out your major can be a difficult choice, especially if you are torn between very different areas of study. In this particular case, there are a couple of issues going on.

First, don't think that choosing a major means you have to decide what to devote your life to. Yes, your major should be something that you are deeply interested in, but it does not have to define the rest of your life. Give yourself a break and don't feel pressured to figure out everything right now. Take your time, it's okay.

Also, don't assume that you would be spreading yourself too thin by double majoring (especially if your science major is not a BS). You might want to try starting off on the double majoring path, taking classes in both areas, to see how they balance and which ones you like more. You will make a much better decision this way than before you have even taken the classes. This plan might also be helpful if you are considering minoring in one area instead of double majoring.

Last, try making an appointment with the career center at your school. Career counseling tools such as an interest inventory (like the Strong Interest Inventory), personality assessment (like the Myers Briggs), values assessment, or skills assessment can help you find the direction that you are looking for. These tools can help you figure out your major and plans for after college and career planning.

Got questions? Please feel free to ask The Advisor about it.