I have a degree in the liberal arts … would you like fries with that?” These types of jokes made towards students who majored in an art or social science have become more popular as the years have progressed. Not to mention our own nation’s endorsement of promoting a more centralized focus on math and science. To many it seems that although math or science may not be their strengths, the job availability that seems basically guaranteed post-matriculation is motivation enough to make a switch in studies. As a result, you may be one of the many who feel discouraged about choosing a liberal arts path. However, numerous college students seem to overlook the multitude of opportunities that a social science degree can have. There are many obtainable possibilities; one must just understand how skills can transfer to a career setting.
Employers nowadays are less concerned with the major that a candidate has, and more focused on the skills the possible employee possesses. A liberal arts degree aids in cultivating many incredibly useful occupational skills, such as critical thinking, analyzing, and writing. Each of these skills represents a few of the most sought-after proficiencies in the entry-level job market. Being able to exceptionally execute these skills can make someone look quite desirable and capable to a potential employer.
When pondering future occupational possibilities, it is always important to stick to your strengths and niches. For example, if your strongest skill is writing, make college your time to hone and perfect that skill. Many companies desire employees who can articulate and communicate their work successfully and well. Enjoy researching? Complete an undergraduate thesis, and watch employees drool over your research and work ethic. If you are still unsure about how your liberal art skills will apply to the “real world,” consider graduate, law, business, or even medical school.
The world of liberal arts has, contrary to popular belief, expanded over the past couple of decades. Within the past 30 years, in fact, the number of liberal arts majors who found a full-time job one year past graduation increased, and is still climbing today. The annual salary has gone up a couple thousand over the past few years as well, and although math and science majors begin with higher wages, liberal art majors can catch up from yearly increases in pay.
Still unsure about a liberal arts degree? Research and interview people who have jobs that interest you, and find out what they studied in school—you will be surprised! Know your strengths and search for an occupation that focuses on it. During college or even post-graduation, obtain basic experience in a variety of fields such as a language, marketing, and communications. Finally, think outside the box when it comes to applying to jobs. Consider what skills you have and how they can apply to the position and find a way to make it relate. You may not be creating the first hovercraft, but you can be the person interviewing the inventor, writing the news article, inscribing the history of transportation…(you get the idea). Ultimately, there exists a wide array of career possibilities for those not interested in math and science, and with a liberal arts degree, you can be among those who are happy and thriving in their careers!
***Some information presented found in the article What Can I Do with My Liberal Arts Degree by Diana Gehlhaus