Ranging from Performance Arts to Literature Studies, Liberal Arts, in most colleges, typically encompasses a large combination of humanities and social-science majors and is commonly viewed as belonging to the opposing academic spectrum in comparison to STEM majors--which refers to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics majors.
Naturally, there are countless stereotypes that Liberal Arts majors are given, along with the ups and downs of the major itself that make it so unique and distinctive. However, the truth about being a Liberal Arts major paints a different picture than what the stereotypical assumptions may suggest, and there’s a lot about the academic field that is misunderstood. So, from a Liberal Arts major perspective, here are some truths that define the experience for me.
First off, I didn’t choose this major because it’s “easy.” This is definitely one of the biggest misconceptions about why people choose to become a Liberal Arts major, and as someone who is three semesters away from receiving their Bachelors in the field, I can confidently say that my colleagues and myself are here for passion, not an easy A. No matter what your major is, college is about broadening your perspective on the world, actualizing your potential, and learning. Sure, you may earn a degree in the process, but anyone who pursues an education in this field is in it for more than that, or else they wouldn’t be happily sitting through a plethora of required lower level philosophy and humanities courses.
Furthermore, the workload of a Liberal Arts major is anything but “easy.” While I can agree that the comprehensive level required for the certain material may not be as challenging as learning concepts in Physics or Applied Calculus, the quantity of work given is substantial. Multiple-paged, single-spaced papers on an almost weekly basis, loads of reading responses, and countless portfolio projects add up, and definitely require a lot of mental stamina and self-discipline.
Sometimes, I do wish I was a STEM major, believe it or not. It would save me from countless questions that follow the quizzical look on everyone’s face after telling them I’m going to school for “Emerging Media and Communication.” No longer would I have to dread the condescending inquiry of “Okay, but what can you do with that?” I wouldn’t have to be doubtful of if my portfolio measures up, of it I’m going to get a job right out of college, and if my job will pay enough for me to live on my own (Although there may be some hope for us, after all).
The doubts and uncertainties surrounding my decision to pursue a Liberal Arts career are relentless, and sometimes I catch myself wishing I had chosen something more stable. However, at the end of the day, I don’t regret my choice at all. I’m fostering a passion within me for a living, and no matter what that passion is for you--whether it be Biology or Web Design--there is no better way to live a fulfilling life than spending it doing something that makes you excited to wake up each morning.
