Personality has been shown to predict both career satisfaction and college major (Holland, 1996; Gottfredson, Jones, & Holland, 1993). Therefore, the present study examined the relationship between major, personality traits, and academic satisfaction in elementary and secondary education majors. It was hypothesized that major and personality traits would predict academic satisfaction. A sample of 144 undergraduate college students (Mean age = 20.64, SD = 2.04; majority being European American and women) completed a demographics questionnaire and the International Personality Item Pool (IPIP). Elementary education majors were significantly more satisfied with their major when compared to secondary education majors. Additionally, conscientiousness was also a significant predictor of academic satisfaction. Therefore, considering personality factors may be useful in college planning. Limitations and future research are discussed.








__________
Faculty supervisor: Jeffrey Froh, Hoftsra University