When I first decided to major in English, I understood there was going to be a lot of commitment in the years to come. Little did I know I'd be smothered in novels and poetry that would cause my head to implode.
The amount of books I had to get from the bookstore (mind you, they're expensive) was unimaginable. Twenty books. The most I had ever previously had to get was around eight. Not only did the amount of books shock me, but the amount of readings from the syllabi smacked me in the face as well. The second I saw how much reading I had, I instantly began to think about feigning hospitalization in order to avoid all that work.
As you might have observed, Michael Scott accurately expresses my reaction to the start of the semester as an English major.
The most nerve-racking part of majoring in English that I've observed so far is the essays. I can tolerate writing every once in a while, but I've had to deal with papers back to back (#Drakeonthebeat). This might sound like child's play for people who have had to write ten-page papers, but having to write four to five-page papers almost every week has fueled my insanity over the past couple of months. One day I finish my work and I feel like I can relax for a bit, then I'm handed another essay assignment due in a week's time. I constantly ask myself, "When does it end?" It doesn't help that I have carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands, and I am now constantly on my computer, typing page after page. I mean, I understand that writing can be helpful, especially since I want to be a journalist after college. But to have essays due so frequently is far beyond what I want in my life. How am I supposed to reach Nirvana if I can't settle down once in a while?
I will be honest though, I have definitely changed in a positive way since declaring my major. I think I've successfully read more books (and enjoyed them for that matter) this year than I have in my lifetime. Likewise, my writing continually develops and has become more concise. Despite stressing over how much each assingment is worth, being an English major isn't too bad. There's a lot to take away from the classes you take, and most of them will relate in some way to the point that you feel like you're in the "Twilight Zone" or something.
This rant was not meant to discourage any of you who plan on being English majors. In fact, besides the reading and essay writing, I can't think of any other flaws with the English department here at Binghamton University. In fact, I've enjoyed the work and assignments more than you may think. I guess what I really want to let all of you know is that being an English major, though stressful, can really benefit you. The English language has been prominent in our lives for years now, and some people still don't know the difference between "there," "they're" and "their." And if you have a knack for writing, then you will definitely find yourself enjoying the classes offered here. If you plan on being an English major, or you already are, just keep your chin up. It's better than you think!
