"So you're an English major, does that mean you want to become a teacher?"
"No."
"So why are you an English major then? Isn't teaching all you can do with that degree anyway?"
This has probably been the most annoying question I’ve heard since I first declared my English major. For those of you out there who might still be grappling with the overwhelming career options that come with being in the Liberal Arts and Science department, don't be afraid to stand up for yourself!
Despite popular belief, you don't need to be a STEM and pre-med major to earn some $$ when you face the real world after your undergraduate years. Yes, the overwhelming career possibilities for those concentrating in English studies can be daunting to sift through at times; but look on the bright side, though English students ARE faced with different job opportunities after graduation, perhaps the countless job possibilities might not be such a bad thing.
I think the idea that an English major provides skills for countless careers intimidates people. That's probably how the popular notion of "You're an English major, what grade do you want to teach?" came about. The need for concrete instead of abstract concepts seems to be a consistent human tendency. However, I want to take this opportunity to challenge our natural behaviors.
After three years of researching and exploring various career options associated with English degrees, I can tell you that there are more options aside from teaching that are available. In fact, many students focus their studies in English for multiple purposes.
The key is to remain optimistic and develop creative ideas on how to best utilize the many different opportunities an English degree can offer. Continue reading if you would like to know the top five reasons why you should consider becoming an English major and how that decision might be the best one in your life so far!
1. The Versatility Effect
What if that nursing job you wanted so badly doesn't turn out so well when you faint at the sight of blood during your first internship? Not only will you have to re-evaluate your career decision, but you are probably facing another two years of school to get another degree you think will be a better fit. If you're an English major and that editing job didn't turn out to be as jolly as you were expecting, you have the communication and logical skills to qualify for that Public Relations position without facing additional years of university education.
2. Obtaining an English major is great if you want to go on to graduate school
A billion years ago, I once considered the pre-law track. Unfortunately, there is no pre-law undergraduate degree you can enroll in that would prepare you for the LSATs. However, having an undergraduate English degree would greatly aid you for some major graduate requirements that includes communicative, analytical, logical, interpretative, and writing skills and techniques.
3. Don't want to be stuck in that cubicle?
I don’t know about you, but picturing myself sitting in an office cubicle or stuck in a lab eight hours a day for forty years does not sound appealing. If you invest in an English degree as an undergraduate, you could be looking at a lot more interesting office settings with the communication skills you acquire through your studies. For example, ever wanted to spend part of your time at home with family, and part of your time in the office with friends? You can do that with an English degree. What if you wanted to travel? Being a Public Relations rep would allow you to travel to wherever your organization needs you and the best part? You only need an English degree to meet the Public Relations career requirements.
4. Liberal Arts and Science degrees are so competitive, what if I don’t get a job?
5. Don’t underestimate the power of communication
My last piece of advice to you would be don’t underestimate the power of communication and logic. English majors become experts in communicating in a variety of different environments through the required class courses it takes to obtain an English degree. Every business, corporation, and organization is constantly in need of someone who has excellent writing skills, amazing planning techniques, and who can communicate with a diverse audience. This constant need for creativity and communication means you will most likely be able to find a job that fits your desires and passions.
