Being an English major is a blessing and a curse. We get to do the one thing we love most in the world — and then there's the papers. But those can be fun, too (Shocking, right?). However, because of our major we are constantly subject to ridicule. Some people just don't understand what it is we intend to do with an education in "books." Yet, as frustrating as it can be to hear these things, we all know that in the end it will all be worth it.
1. "So, you're going to be a teacher?"
No, I'm not. There are more things a person can do with a degree in English than people actually realize. Are some of us going to be teachers? Yes. But, that doesn't mean that all of us will.
2. "You have a back up plan, right?"
Oh, ye of little faith. I can't count on both hands how many times I've been asked this by friends and professors alike. As English majors, we are very much aware of the limited field we are trying to enter. Maybe it looks a bit grim to you, but we're too caught up in the magic of words to even care about that.
3. "Sounds easy."
It's not. You try reading about 50 pages per class session and having multiple papers assigned each week. And midterms/finals? More like papers on papers on papers. You can't really test the analytical skills that we are learning via multiple choice. Definitely not easy.
4. "Can you proofread my paper?"
I could, if you'd like to proofread mine. And trust me, that's not a fair trade.
5. "How do you spell ____?"
I'm not a dictionary. Please consult one if you need to know.
6. "Why?"
At this point I don't even know. But, then I get to class and we end up having this amazing discussion on Romantic literature in the 18th century and suddenly everything in the world seems to make sense — that's why.
7. "Do you like to read?"
What do you think?
8. "Can you put me in your story?"
If I'm writing one you're probably already in it. And just for asking your role will be a short one.
9. "Can I read what you've written?"
No. I don't even like having my professors read what I've written. Even after turning a paper in, I'm re-writing it in my head. English majors are probably the most word conscious people in the world. If it doesn't sound right the first time, we keep writing it and won't move on until it does. Yes, it takes forever - but that just means less editing later.
10. "No one reads books anymore."
'Tis sad, but true. I wish people could realize the amazing experience reading provides us. Unfortunately, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink. I could talk for hours and hours and give endless recommendations, but I guarantee the only person who will take me up on it would be my fellow English-enthused, crazy classmates.
