Whenever anyone hears that I'm an Environmental Studies major, it's usually accompanied by a small smile and a quick "oh, so..." question. Each major does have its accompanied stereotypes, after all, and chances are you've perfected how to maneuver around them. If you're an environmental major of any kind, you've most likely heard the same repetitive questions a countless amount of times. So sit back, relax, and enjoy a list of frequent questions and statements that a fellow environmental major and I have decided that we hear all of the time.
1. "Oh, are you going to preach to me about recycling and all that now?"
Actually, yes. Yes I am.
2. "So...are you like...you know...a vegan?"
I mean, I personally am not, but that doesn't make "Vegan" a bad word.
3. "Have you seen the snow outside? Didn't you say the world is getting warmer or something?"
Really? Do you not listen to a word I've said while talking to you? You can't just deny a scientifically proven fact. I won't allow it, and I refuse to listen to you for any longer.
4. "Don't you get tired of biking around?"
No, there isn't a rule against owning a car. It isn't in the major requirement list, I promise.
5. "So you only eat organic, right?"
I can't argue against this, actually. I definitely prefer to eat organic, but college life is rather hard on my wallet and I definitely would not be against making ramen or going on a McDonald's run with you.
6. "But you don't look like a hippy!"
Is this a back handed compliment? Am I supposed to say thank you?
7. "I'm glad you don't care about money, it's so relieving to see someone not care about material things."
I'm not the most material person in the world, but I do know the importance of money. I do plan to be a working member of society, after all.
8. "You know we're all going to die anyways, right?"
Yes, I know you don't care about future generations because you won't be around to see the damage you've caused, but do you really need to be so harsh about it?
9. "Is there even really a difference between being an Environmental Studies major and an Environmental Science major anyways?"
Let's put it this way: Studies majors look at text, Science majors dig in dirt and take water samples.
10. "Oh, I get it! You want to be a park ranger, right?"
I'll admit that I love Smokey the Bear as much as the next person, but no, that isn't the only job available.
11. "What are you majoring in again? Biology?"
I graduate in two years and my family still isn't certain about what my major even entails. I don't think they ever will. But in the end, does that even matter? I still am completely in love with what I'm studying, and wouldn't want it any other way. Every major does have its stereotypes, right?
