It isn't uncommon for my friends who are more career-minded to scoff at my "risky" English Writing major. They call me impractical. My parents might badger about my career plans until their faces turn blue.
I'm not budging from where I'm sitting in my studies despite all this pestering from well meaning friends and family.
From my perspective, a liberal arts degree looks like a good decision and a pretty safe bet on my future. Here's why.
- Diversity of classes
What other degree path would allow me to take classes like African-American Poetry or Introduction to World Religions while moving forward towards a degree?
This variety of classes allows for a ton of new subjects to be tackled. Even when studied at the most basic level, arts classes have the ability to increase awareness and develop an open mind.
- Plethora of options thanks to a broad education
You can't really pigeonhole yourself into one area when you choose liberal arts. Sure, you might major in English or History or Women's Studies, but when it comes down to it, employers know that you have a developed flexibility as an arts student.
An arts degree forces you to develop a number of skills including critical thinking and communication -- both oral, written and interpersonal. With these skills under your belt, you have a solid base of knowledge for almost any job!
- A well-rounded education
Most jobs seem to train on site anyway, so most of the specifics are learned at a company and not in a classroom. This degree allows you to explore and do almost anything you want to do.
So those of you who are nervous about delving into the arts, worry not! Not only are you in for some interesting classes and fun times, but you're looking at a pretty secure future in the working world too.
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