Whenever I tell someone I am a Communication major, I always get the same questions: “What does a Communication major even do?” or the classic, “We already know how to communicate, so what’s the point?” But that is exactly the point. We are all communicating in one way or another, every single day. Communication is a broad field, but that is what makes it so applicable. From business and law to psychology and graphic design, a Communication degree can open doors to almost any career path. Every thought, idea and message we share relies on communication.
More than just speech
One of the biggest stereotypes about Communication is that it as an easy major focused solely on public speaking. While public speaking is certainly a skill students develop, communication goes far beyond that. One of its greatest strengths is versatility. Students learn skills that include research, social sciences, media, writing, problem-solving and critical thinking, all of which can be applied to multiple careers. The major also allows students to explore their interests and find things they specialize in. Being broad is not always a flaw; it gives students the freedom to shape their degree around their interests. As someone who struggled when it came to picking out a major, Communication gave me the opportunity to focus on several of my interests.
I no longer feel limited in what I can do with my degree, I do not feel stuck with one specific path and have great flexibility. Communication students are able to pursue all sorts of different paths, depending on their own interests, experiences and skills. Some students use their communication degree as a stepping stone to other specializations which can require additional training and qualifications, but their communication degree will not go to waste as it provides crucial knowledge that would be beneficial for any field.Â
Communication in the workforce
Employers need people who can turn their messages into something meaningful. Effective communication requires more than being able to form sentences. It requires understanding the how, what, why and when behind a message. Anyone can spread a message with a certain intent, but that doesn’t ensure the listener will perceive it that way. Communication students learn how to analyze messages in all forms, whether it’s words, pictures, videos, mannerisms. Understanding how these messages influence an audience is a skill that takes vast practice to obtain.Â
Communication has a greater impact than most people realize, it connects everyone and everything. It helps shape the way we comprehend the world, stories we tell, ideas we believe in, and changes we choose to make. These skills have meaning in anything you do, in a world of constant evolution communication has no limit. Communication gives a voice to any thought, idea, and movement. The skills one learns from this degree is endless, and provides great support in all aspects of life. Investing in a communications degree will value someone in almost any career, and the best part is you have complete freedom of how you choose which path is for you.
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