As young adults and college students embarking on this new chapter of our lives, a lot of pressure is placed on us since we’re in the process of figuring out our futures. Many will be jumbling ideas on what to study and many will want to pursue a major they enjoy.
The problem is, during this process, we encounter many negative and discouraging comments or opinions. Even though some may think these comments are helpful during this process, in reality, it is not.
Nowadays, there are stigmas about certain fields of work in which many automatically assume one is not going to make a living unless they're a doctor, business person, engineer, etc. Of course, those are great career choices to pursue, but they're not what everyone is interested in.
Being any sort of liberal arts major is tough because we have to endure many sarcastic and discouraging comments. As an English major, I've had my fair share of comments from others when it came to telling them what my major was.
I’ve heard comments such as, "there's not much to do with that degree besides teaching and being a librarian,” "good luck finding a job after college,” "you'll end up switching your major” or even the classic "really, English?"
I understand when comments like these are made, individuals are trying to be helpful and give an honest opinion. However, we're told to do whatever makes us happy and what we're passionate about. Yet, once we begin to follow through with that, we're shot down and told otherwise which is hypocritical.
In response to these comments, many do not realize how much you can do with an English degree. Being a librarian or teacher is not the only job/careers English majors can obtain. The English world is such a broad spectrum, there many jobs to choose from, especially since many employers are seeking those with English degrees!
Overall, as long as you have a degree, everyone is bound to find some sort of job in the end which is something many seem to forget.
After a lot of reflecting and talks with people who support me, I’ve realized I'm going into English because it's what I enjoy. I enjoy reading and writing and it's what I'm best at!
I’m not going into medicine or business when I'm not good at math or science because by doing so, I'm essentially setting myself up for failure along with being miserable since it's not what I enjoy or see myself doing in the future!
So for those who are English majors or any other liberal arts major, do not let anyone tell you differently! You do whatever your heart desires and pursue any career you're passionate about. Most importantly, it’s your life!