If you go to Bentley University, it almost feels pointless to ask someone what they’re majoring in because it’s seemingly always followed up by some form of accounting or finance. Don’t get me wrong, that is awesome. There’s a reason why Bentley has so many accounting and finance majors – and that’s because it has one of the strongest accounting programs in the country and a multitude of connections and resources within the accounting and finance industries. However, not everyone at Bentley is interested in the same things. In my short time at Bentley, I’ve found that although I have met my fair share of accounting and finance majors, there are also many people who are majoring in other areas of business and incorporating liberal arts into their degree and their potential careers as well.
I fell in love with Bentley’s campus, the student life, the job opportunities they have to offer, their fabulous business education, and just about everything else, but I was afraid that if I came to a school predominantly known for finance and accounting, I wouldn’t have the opportunities to pursue my passions in liberal arts like writing, foreign language, and especially international affairs, culture, and history. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there was nothing I had to be nervous about. I have found so many ways to combine these passions with business and to pursue creative outlets outside of the classroom through clubs and organizations. So, here’s how!
1. Clubs
Attending Bentley’s clubs and activities fair is a must for finding ways to stay in touch with your creative side outside of the classroom and for finding people who share interests like yours. Some of these include debate club, model UN, creative industries club, literary society, outdoors club, students for sustainable business, dance clubs like Craze and Momentum, Her Campus (of course!) and the list goes on and on. There are so many students here with varying passions that it’s easy to find a club that sparks your interest, but even if Bentley doesn’t have the club or organization you’re looking for, you can start your own!
2. The Liberal Studies Major
Bentley offers 8 different concentrations as Liberal Studies Majors. You can pair one of these LSMs with your business major to create a well-rounded course of study that is reflective of who you are and what interests you. This way, you get the quality business education that will give you a huge edge up when looking for a career, but you don’t have to let go of what you’re passionate about. You can incorporate it into the career you pursue as well! Bentley’s website provides a lot of info on the LSM and what requirements you must meet/classes you need to take for each concentration, so it can help you get a better idea of which LSM you might be interested in.
3. Electives
If you’re interested in some area of science, language, psychology, sociology, or really any other area that isn’t business related, but you’re not ready to commit to double majoring with the LSM, Bentley has many electives and classes that fulfil requirements in areas that you might enjoy. Again, it’s worth it to check out the website or workday to view available courses. I know I was surprised to see some of the unique classes that are offered.
4. Non-Business Majors
A lot of people, even Bentley students, are unaware that you can major in something other than business at Bentley. Bentley has multiple Arts and Sciences majors. Although it’s rare, because Bentley is a predominantly business school, I’ve met some people who have decided to major in fields like Sustainability or International Affairs and minor in business, still getting a strong business education because of Bentley’s general business requirements and overall business foundation in education but also getting to major in something they’re really passionate about.
5. Study Abroad
If you’re someone like me who loves to travel and learn about other cultures, the best way to do that is through immersion with the study abroad program. Study abroad can expose you to new people, foods, places, and experiences; you’re bound to tap into your creative interests and learn more about the world outside of business. Not to mention, study abroad is important to employers and will look great on your resume. A trip to Italy with wine tasting classes and a leg up when applying for jobs? I think yes.
All in all, Bentley has many opportunities to get the education you want and the career you desire. I knew I wanted a great business education, but I’ve found that I don’t have to give up any of my other academic interests (or creative, non-academic ones) to get that education. In fact, there are many ways to tailor your major to have the career you’ve always dreamed of and many ways to channel your creativity outside of the classroom. So, don’t hesitate to investigate everything Bentley has to offer – I’m sure you’ll be pleasantly surprised!
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