Faktor-Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Minat Calon Mahasiswa dalam Memilih Jurusan Kuliah

Factors Influencing Prospective Students' Interest in Choosing a Major

Abstract

This quantitative descriptive study, utilizing a survey method, aims to identify the internal and external factors influencing students' interest in selecting a university major. The study subjects consisted of 15 prospective students at Universitas 45 Mataram, selected from various study programs. Data collection was conducted using a questionnaire administered via Google Forms. The results indicate that the decision-making process of prospective students is predominantly driven by external factors. The social environment emerged as the strongest determinant, led by peer influence (87%), followed by parental support and financial capacity (80% each). These findings highlight the high sensitivity of adolescents to family financial approval and group conformity. Conversely, regarding internal dimensions, the focus was primarily on future orientation (67%) and personal aspirations (60%). Aspects of personal capacity, such as talent and academic ability, ranked lowest, contributing equally (47%) to the decision. In conclusion, within the modern context, instrumental economic motives and social security have superseded talent-based interests; academic competence tends to be sidelined in favor of achieving financial security and future career stability