If you are going to school to be a nurse, after school you are more than likely planning on being a nurse. If you go to school for engineering, after you graduate it is reasonable to assume that you will pursue a career as an engineer. As an English major, it isn't so black and white. While I can understand the innocent curiosity of people or their desire to make small talk, the repetitive questions (and I sincerely mean this in the nicest way) are getting old.
1. So, do you want to be a teacher?
For myself, this is probably the question I dread the most. Yes, SOME English majors desire to be teachers, but these people are majoring in "English Education." Now I can understand and credit the confusion some have by stating such a broad major. But, even when I say that I am an English major with an Emphasis in Creative Writing, this question is usually the next response.
No, I don't want to be a teacher. Not even a little bit. English major is a very broad term. There are linguistics majors, Ed. majors, writers: technical and creative, etc. So don't jump to conclusions and assume that all English majors would desire a career in education.
2. Why would you go to school for English then? You can always just get a normal adult job and write on the side.
First of all, this is slightly (or incredibly) insulting. While I am sure it is not the intention, we English majors have worked just as hard as any other college student, and likewise, we deserve the credit.
3. English is our first language, what more could you possibly learn?
Like any skill, English in the verbal and written form is an expertise that must be taught and practiced. In addition to that, we have a satisfying background in the art of language, making us more diverse then the average student.
For example, do you know why words are spelled the way they are? To the college student majoring in anything but English, this would seem like an absurd question. I assure you, it isn't. The exceptional art of communication is one that could be desired in any career field. So, as an English major, what can't I do for you?
4. What are you going to do after graduation with that degree?
The exceptional art of communication is one that could be desired in any
career field. As an English major, what can't I do for you?
I can use a diverse range of beautiful, impressive words to make you sound exceedingly sophisticated. I can make people want you, want your business, and most importantly, they will believe it.
5. What kind of money are you going to make with that?
Trust me, if that question was of any concern or relevance, I would've picked a different major. But instead, I chose a life of passion and made a decision of bravery.
Creative people are a storm to be reckoned with. When others see the world as black and white, we see an array of colors. We are okay with uncertainty, we are passionate, and we believe (or create) worlds you would love to dream of.
