By Kate Bourdow
Yes, there are jobs out there for liberal arts majors. While the link between college and career is, at first glance, more clearly defined for technical and business graduates, liberal arts graduates are, in fact, well positioned to secure meaningful, post-college careers. The keys to bridging this transition begin with understanding the value of your liberal arts education and utilizing every job search tool at your fingertips.
One of the main stumbling blocks liberal arts graduates face in the workplace is an inability to market their degree. A liberal arts education typically includes the study of languages, history, literature, philosophy, math and sciences. This study traditionally focuses more on intellectual learning than technical training. Through these intellectual pursuits, liberal arts students also hone valuable critical thinking, analytical, communication and teamwork skills. According to a recent study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, these skills top the list of those most desired by employers. Employers realize that it is easier to provide job-specific technical training than to cultivate these ‘soft skills’ in new employees.
Adding real world experience to your résumé can also bolster your credentials. Consider completing an internship for academic credit or taking a part-time job in your field of study. These experiences are invaluable ways to test out career interests, while gaining career field-specific skills and networking with future employers. Studying abroad is another great way to broaden your knowledge of other cultures and languages, skills critical in today’s global economy.
Successful job searches require you to utilize multiple strategies and resources. Visit the CSC to clarify interests and skills, research potential employers, construct a professional résumé and strengthen interviewing skills. Networking through professors, past internship supervisors and local professionals is one of the most effective job search tools. Don’t be afraid to let others know about your job search.
A recent article by Joyce Lain Kennedy in The Virginian-Pilot (“Cashing in on Your Liberal Arts Degree,” 7/29/07) tackles this very issue. Kennedy outlines six critical steps for translating your liberal arts degree into a rewarding career. She specifically recommends:
- Taking inspiration from other liberal arts students by checking out books on the subject such as Smart Moves for Liberal Arts Graduates: Finding a Path to Your Perfect Career by Sheila J. Curran and Suzanne Greenwald
- Fully utilizing your college career center
- Compiling job leads from multiple sources
- Writing a flawless, professional résumé
- Considering a low-paying entry-level position in your field if it offers opportunities for advancement
- Crafting a 30 to 60 second “elevator speech” or personal commercial highlighting “who you are and what you can do”
Above all, Kennedy stresses the importance of self-confidence and courteous behavior, calling “likeability” the ultimate “tiebreaker” among job candidates.
The most challenging aspect of the job search process is starting early. Investigate majors and career fields of interest as early as your freshman year. Taking a proactive approach to career development ensures you will encounter few limits on future directions with your English (or history or philosophy) degree.