Maybe you're new to a university, or you're only in high school, or you graduated a decade ago. Whatever your status, you probably already have a career or major in mind. Perhaps you're one of the lucky ones whose major provides reliable jobs and security. Or maybe you’re like me, and your choice of major is your only passion in life, but it doesn’t always end with a nice, happy job and a white picket fence. I am an English major. I chose this major because I’ve always wanted to be an author. I know this isn’t a steadfast career and believe me, I’ve heard all the criticism.

SEE ALSO: Why I'm Proud To Be An English Major

But, please, stop criticizing those who are following their dreams despite the chances of failure. I know being an author, teacher, social worker, or even an astronaut may sound silly to you, but those are the dreams and goals of so many. When you judge us, you’re just crushing those dreams, and that’s not nice to do to anyone. An education major matters because who else is going to teach you and your children? An author matters because of those books (and sometimes movies) that you love don’t just come out of thin air. A social worker matters because they are helping to reform our crappy, unfair society and make it just.

So yes, we know that careers in our fields aren’t the best paying, and it may take years to get high up in the ranks. Yes, we know that we won’t make as much money as a doctor or a lawyer. But we’re following our dreams. Just like those doctors and lawyers, we’re making the world a better place too, only on a smaller scale.

The little victories are sometimes the most important.