In a world that is overrun with science and technology, considering pursuing a degree in the humanities or liberal arts is considered a very unwise move. Those who choose a major in one of these non-math or science related areas often get asked many questions and told multiple things that become annoying over time or that come across as condescending even when the person saying it doesn’t mean it in that way. As a Classics Major, I hear my fair share of these and below are many of the questions and statements I have been asked.
"Why are you majoring in [humanities major]?"
It's probably the same reason that you chose to major in science. I wanted my major to be something that I actually enjoy, whether or not is it deemed by society to be “practical.” I know that I’ll have a better time studying something that interests me and that makes me want to go to classes and do the homework instead of just a means to end up with a job.
"Are you planning to teach with that?"
No, are you? Yes, there are many teachers who hold humanities degrees and I have had some wonderful teachers with these degrees, but teaching is not the only option or one that I want to pursue. Many humanities students end up in fields that require reading and writing skills, along with the communication and people skills that are required in almost every industry.
"I bet that your course load is pretty light."
The humanities course load may not have a problem set of 20 physics questions, but we have other assignments to complete that include writing essays and translating passages of poetry. While we may not spend almost $250 on a science textbook, we do still have to buy a lot of little ones, which add up along with the weight of our backpacks. So, while it may seem like we have less work, at least the math and sciences can all get the same answer for their questions.
"What can you even you even do with that degree?"
I can do plenty of things. Use your imagination. Employers from all industries can hire people with humanities degrees because of their versatility, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities. Students who hold these degrees can end up working in public relations fields or as analysts for a multitude of companies from corporations to the federal government.
"Are you sure that you’re going to get a job with that?"
Since the humanities teach broad skills, we can work in a variety of fields. The humanities students are the ones who are going to write those television shows that you’re going to watch on Netflix or translate those books that you’ll read before you go to bed because it was originally written in French. They’ll also be the ones who create those paintings that you see when you go to an art museum.
"What do your parents think of your major?"
What do they think about yours? Does it really matter what they think? My parents may not be thrilled that I’ve chosen a humanities major, but they’re not going to make me change it. They realize that I may actually do better by studying a subject that I actually enjoy.
