Many young adults in high school and college are constantly facing the daunting decision of what they want to do for the rest of their lives. Most universities require students to declare their major by their junior year (average age of 20-21). Being force to decide so soon, this is already a heavy enough weight to carry. But confusion between following our hearts versus “using our heads” and picking what we are told we will find the most success in doesn’t make the decision any easier.
Pressure to Pursue a STEM Degree and Misconceptions
As college students, we have all likely heard at least once in our lives that we should choose a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) major if we want to be successful. Whether we are told by family who has pursued STEM degrees previously, or even out of fear of not making enough money after graduation, there is no doubt there is an emphasis on choosing one of these majors for success. Looking at the Forbes 400, many of the leading billionaires in the United States are STEM-oriented. For example, Elon Musk, with a net worth of $251 billion. This, in turn, makes us afraid we won’t find success elsewhere. Surely, many STEM majors are in high demand and always will be, especially following the medical crisis that was the COVID-19 pandemic. Encompassing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, it is easy to understand why students believe this is where they will find the most secure career possible.
But, in terms of demand, the New York Times claims that many STEM degrees, such as Life Sciences, Engineering, and Physical Sciences tend to outpace job openings in their corresponding fields. Expert on Science Education and Policy, Michael S. Teitelbaum, explains that STEM advocates, specifically lobbyists for technology firms, are doing a “disservice” by portraying the shortfall of healthcare and certain other specific science-orientated majors as generalized to all of STEM, when it is not. This misconception is what has created an outpace in STEM degrees compared to demand.
Finding Success in Liberal Arts
It is important to remember STEM is not for everyone. Others have a greater interest or passion in the Liberal Arts, encompassing creative arts, sociology, literature, political science, and so much more. This is more than okay. In fact, it is very much necessary. These careers, too, will always hold importance. Without the Liberal Arts, we would not have our government, an established education system with teachers and professors, valuable literature, and so much more which has and will continue to shape our society. Success can be grand within these majors, as well.
According to MarketWatch, there are many Liberal Arts fields that are among the most versatile, meaning your career trajectory can go in many directions and you are unlikely to encounter a shortage of job availability if you choose to pursue them. For example, Economics (4th), Political Science (6th), Communication/English (7th), and Sociology (10th). These, among other Liberal Arts majors, are absolutely essential and there is undoubtedly success awaiting in each and every one of them. Although, many shy away from it after commonly hearing their major won’t earn them a proper income. This is a complete misconception. For example, the median salary of a Political Scientist in 2021 is $125,350, according to U.S. News. Hard work in your career can take you incredibly far, and it truly is what you make of it. Everyone is capable of achieving the income standard usually associated with STEM, regardless of the field of their degree.
Choosing passion over Stigmas
There is no major that is not worth pursuing if you are truly passionate about it. Regardless of demand or median income, it is essential that we practice what we love to do. This is where we will reach our fullest potential, including, but not limited to, salary. The classic saying “Choose a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life,” sounds cheesy, but holds truth. College is certainly hard, and that difficulty carries into our careers. But, the more motivated we are, the harder we will work, and the more our work will pay off. This is how we create the utmost success for ourselves. So, study whatever you want! Take this time in college to explore your interests if you are not sure yet. Choose yourself, and watch your life blossom.