Communication is a popular major among college students. It gives people a large area of study that provides numerous skills that cannot always be taught in a classroom. However, many people see it as a cop out. Here are nine things I am definitely tired of hearing after three years as a Communication Major.
1. "Oh, what are you going to do with that?"
The answer: whatever I want. I have a plethora of options in front of me. I could focus on design, advertising, marketing, journalism, public relations, event planning, social media, and the list continues.
2. "Oh so you couldn't decide what you want to do with your life."
No, I did not choose communication because it was a cop out. I chose it because I like the courses and the careers I could possibly get in the future. I like working with people whether it be through writing, talking, advertising or through social media.
3. "That's such a broad topic."
Thank you, I know. I did not want limited options when I graduate and maybe I like being more flexible and have the ability to do more than one job.
4. "You don't need to go to school to learn that."
Yes, I do know how to talk to other people. BUT now I can do it through many platforms and avoid saying something that might offend someone as you just did.
5. "So you must love public speaking."
Yes, I do. But some of my classmates do not. It is something I still get nervous doing, but I know how to control my nerves when speaking and how to direct my speech to a specific audience.
6. "Do you plan on going to grad school or getting your doctorate?"
I might, but I also might not. I can get a job without those because the skills I have learned outside the classroom in my internships have provided me with the knowledge and experience I need.
7. "Oh, tough job market."
Alright, but I am determined. I have set goals and I have exceeded them. I have experiences from inside and outside the classroom that have made me a strong competitor.
8. "Easy A."
I am sorry, but no it is not always easy. The requirements and expectations are higher than most think. Our grading system is higher. Ever heard of a "Fatal Mistakes Policy"? Misspell too many words or use the wrong punctuation your paper gets a zero. Ever heard of AP style? Not APA, AP style. That is all.
9. "Oh, you just needed a degree, didn't you?"
No, actually I like studying the classes. I like learning about different cultures and how communication can affect people in different ways. I like being flexible in my work, whether it be design or a story. I like discussion-based classes that give me the ability to share my thoughts and learn about others.
I just want to say that I love being a Communications Major and I love all my classes and that is something that can be hard to find. I love that I am surrounded by people who love to share their creativity in all different forms. I love that my professors have creative backgrounds and find new ways to teach our classes. I love spending my days doing an array of things.
