Dear Individual,
Yes, I am an English major. No, my future plan is not to become a teacher. When you ask me that question it makes my skin crawl. Would you ask that to Biology major? Probably not, I know that because at one point in time I was a Bio major. The reason behind that ill-advised decision was because I grew up hearing that those who study English would never make any money, never find a job in their field, and inevitably end up as an ornery English teacher. That thought terrified me and pushed into a program that drained me of every ounce of life I had.
When you pose the question, "Oh so do you plan on teaching then?" You're also belittling the act of teaching. I don't buy into the old adage of, "Those who can't do, teach." When that question is posed what is being said is that anyone who becomes a teacher has done so because they couldn't "make it big." Several members of my family, including my own mother, are teachers and they adore their profession. However, I personally have never felt that teaching is the right track for me.
Obviously, I realize that becoming a successful author or television writer is extremely difficult but that doesn’t mean I’m going to give up my dreams. The other day I mention to a friend that I was thinking about applying to The New School’s screenwriting program. After a moment he replied, “Yeah because that’s just what the world needs… Another screenwriter.”
I shouldn’t have to be consumed with anxiety each time someone asks me, “So what are you studying?” But I am because I know as soon as I reply that I’m an English major with a concentration in Writing Studies you’re going to look at me with pity because you secretly think, or sometimes vocalize, that I’ll be living in debt for the rest of my life.
The thing is, what you probably don’t realize is I’m not in this for the money. I chose to become a writer because it’s my passion. I want to wake up every morning and be consumed by my love for my job. Money might make the world go round but if I don’t like the world that I made for myself then what good is money? I would much rather be penniless and happy than rich and miserable.
This mindset does not make me a hopeless romantic or an impractical 20 something. If anything I feel as if I’m better off than most because when choosing something based off of a passion rather than a desire for money I won’t burn out halfway through my career. Through my degree, I will learn content and discipline skills, critical thinking skills, communication skills, and civic engagement abilities. All four of these proficiencies will help me not only in my career but also throughout my life in general.
Furthermore, yes I do plan on pursuing a career in the writing industry and I have no immediate plans to teach. I’m hopeful for my future and will continue to work towards my goal of becoming a successful writer. Next time you go to ask, “So are you going to teach?” Please be mindful of your condescending tone and know that you’re simply making me dive even further into my passion for writing.
Sincerely,
A Determined English Major
