One of my favorite questions to be asked is, “What’s your major?”

I like this question because it gives me a chance to put into words my passions and plans for the future. Whatever your major is, take pride in it and don’t let anyone discourage you.

Sometimes when I tell people I am an English major I get blank stares, disapproving comments or even sarcastic remarks about me “wasting my parent’s money.” I don’t know how English majors attracted this disapproval but it is definitely undeserved.

Any student who is going to college and trying to achieve their goals of higher education is deserving of praise. It isn’t easy going to college. Those of us who are going to college are absolutely blessed by the opportunity and shouldn’t waste it studying something that will make others happy. If you are going to suffer through the 120+ hours it takes to graduate, the stress of finals and the delirium of sleepless nights spent studying then it better be in a field you actually enjoy.

Life is way too short to focus on the things that are not important to you and just long enough to master the things that you are passionate about. I am passionate about literature and writing and analyzing the endless meanings of poetry and I am not ashamed of it.

So, when I do experience those blank stares, disapproving comments and sarcastic remarks, I am going to stand my ground and maybe even pull up this article because I am proud to be an English major. Even if English doesn’t float your boat and you are pursuing a different dream, please always be proud of yourself because you deserve it.

Students, be proud of yourself. We are obtaining knowledge that is going to guide us through our endeavors and help us pursue our dreams. Whether your dreams are to become a brain surgeon, an investment banker, a professional actor, or maybe even a music journalist like me, you are fearlessly following the footsteps to your future. Open up your textbooks, voice your opinions and be proud of yourself.

And English majors, always remember that the literature we study and maybe even the art we will create will outlive the negative opinions of our major.