What do you want to be when you grow up? This innocent childhood question is one we’ve all been asked. And have answered. T ruck driver. T eacher. Artist. Astronaut. Farmer. Firefighter. Dentist. Dancer. How old were you when you decided and knew it was the right answer? 23, 24, 25 ...? Maybe you’re still figuring it out. T oday’s college students often know, upon arrival, how they want to use their degrees in the real world. At California Polytechnic State University, or Cal Poly, students have to declare a major as freshmen. At the ripe old age of 18. Karen McGaughey, Associate Professor of Statistics, says they show up ready. “T oday’s Cal Poly students have had more exposure than we did as kids. They’re pretty sure statistics is what they want to do.”

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