I congratulate you on your choice of Wheaton or Houghton, as you plan your preparation for mission service. Either of these schools will both give you an excellent academic preparation as well as putting you in contact with both professors as well as many speakers who will introduce you to what the Lord is doing around the world to extend His Kingdom.

Ryan, the selection of a major depends a lot on what you think you may be doing and also if you plan on graduate study. For example, most major denominations will expect you to get a theology degree following college. If this is the case, it would be better for you to think of your college experience as an opportunity to get a broad, general education. Since they will have required Bible and theology courses, you'll get a general orientation for Christian work as well.

If you see yourself working with primitive peoples, a major in anthropology would be a big help. If you are thinking of seminary teaching, I would recommend majoring in philosophy, with a generous selection of courses in history and literature.

On the other hand, if your college preparation will be all you'll have before going overseas, and you plan to do church planting or Bible teaching, then it would be logical to major in Bible, or even in Missions, if they currently offer it.

It is not too early to be in contact with the mission agency that you may serve with. They would be happy to make suggestions, given their knowledge of what you may be doing, and can continue to guide you as you prepare yourself both academically and in practical ways for your future ministry.

As you do your investigation and thinking, make sure you pray much for these options, that the Lord would guide you. He knows what He has made you for and what He is calling you to do for His glory.

Jack