I can't tell you the millions of times I've heard this. It's absolutely annoying and quite frustrating!
"So what's your major?"
Sociology/ African American Studies...
"Oh so like... do you want to be a social worker or something?"
No.
"What would you even do? Like will it make you money?"
This is one of the most common issues amongst liberal arts students of my generation. What ever happened to following your dreams? Last time I checked, your dreams are YOURS. So you study what you want.. but it seems to me people give you a weird look when you tell them you studied:
Psychology
Sociology
Education
Criminal Justice
Dance
Photography/Design
Theatre/ Performing Arts
Art degrees of any sort.
For so long, society tells us if we aren't doctors, engineers, lawyers, or some financial analyst, we will be broke. Useless. Pointless. And please don't get me wrong, we need them all! But bashing art students is absolutely unnecessary! I have several questions in this particular regard; how would one determine a specific degree is "pointless" or "a waste of money" if one has a goal behind it? We live in such a competitive world, it doesn't matter what you do, the next guy is in the same boat as you. Always remember, networking will ultimately get you on the track to the job, but the degree will allow you to grow within the field. I would advise those who are in any field, but specifically those in this boat to network! Meet professionals who studied the same field, or even worked with the "higher ups." If they are respectful, they will understand where you're coming from and will help. Never let anyone tell you different! I am currently a Human Resources Development Graduate Student at the University of Houston. My road wasn't easy getting here, but I have to continue to follow my passion, and will. When will people wake up and realize that nothing is promised to you, even if you have the top degree from the top university? There are so many factors that come into play when getting the career of your dreams, and the number one factor is DRIVE.
Yes. Drive.
I see lack of drive in many young adults of my generation, but they always want to make more money.
But no motivation or passion.
If you don't go for what you want, it will result in NOTHING. I currently know of a recent college graduate who graduated top of his class in Mechanical Engineering, and is having a hard time finding work. So please stop feeding into societal beliefs of having to be "rich" by doing something you may or may not enjoy. I also know someone who has a degree in Kinesiology and decided not to extend their higher education because they "hate school." No offense to them, but it can be challenging for everyone in the working world but what matters most is drive and passion. What's for you will always be for you. Don't let anyone or anything stop you for what you want to be in this life. It doesn't matter what you want to be in life, as long as you reach for your dreams, you're unstoppable!
