The Observer, February 2, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 15
Ask Amy...
Career advice for the curious student
A lot of parents wonder whether the major you choose will lead to a successful career. Of course parents want the best for you, but what happens when their dreams and aspirations for you are different than those you have for yourself? Do you take classes on the sly? Do you submit yourself to taking classes you have little to no interest in? Negotiating a major that works well for you and your family is possible without resorting to extreme measures. Here are some helpful tips.
Avoid emotional appeals. Unless such tactics have proven effective in the past, emotional appeals are not effective. Most parents feel they know what is best for you and emotional outbursts may only confirm their belief that you are too immature to make important decisions for yourself.
Lead with facts. Showing your parents that you have done research will help soothe their anxieties about the ramifications of your choice. For example, if you are thinking about a liberal arts major, present them with some of the facts from "What can I do with a Major in…?" found on http://studentaffairs.case.edu/careers/student/majors/. The "area" and "employer" sections illustrate the fact that there is little correlation between majors and careers. Focus on the "strategies" or experience (internships, research) you will undertake to make the transition from your major to a career. Mention that maintaining a high GPA is easier for you if you are studying something you enjoy or are skilled at. If you are planning on going to graduate school, a 2.8 GPA in a so-called "practical major" will not boost your candidacy. Be careful to select facts that support your argument. Organize your thoughts ahead of time, and get them down on paper.
Develop an action plan. Create a timeline and highlight your yearly goals. Are you planning on joining a student organization? Volunteer at a local hospital or museum? Write an honor's thesis? Discuss how each action will benefit you in your future. Even if your plans change, you parents will be impressed with your ability to think ahead. The Career Center can assist you with mapping out a plan.
Get your parents involved. Engaging your parents in the decision-making process will help them to learn about the diverse academic and career options available at Case. Communicate what you learn in classes, workshops, and advising appointments.
If all else fails, compromise. If you lose the battle over your choice of major, you may need to compromise with a minor. This compromise may help you feel balanced and make you more marketable in pursuing a job or graduate school acceptance.
