So many college students are criticized for their choice of major and I see it around me every single day. It ruins people’s spirits and belittles their hopes and dreams.

So here are some things to encourage you when people try to bring you down.

If someone says:

“Well somebody has to do that job.” You look them right in the eyes and say, “Yes. Heck yes somebody has to do that job and I’m going to be awesome at it.” I want to be a high school English teacher, that is a job that needs filled, and you know what? I’m going to LOVE doing it! Some people might not be cut out for this job, but I feel like I am, so heck, I’m gonna do it.

“You’ll never make any money.” Honestly, I might not be a billionaire and I do not care. I want to do this job because I love it. Yes, I need money to eat and live off and I will have that. But who cares if I don’t have millions of dollars left over for fancy cars or fancy houses. I would rather spend my time doing something I’m passionate about and getting a little bit of money rather than spend my time doing something I hate and making millions. It’s just not worth it to me.

“Maybe you should consider that a hobby instead.” Actually, maybe I shouldn’t. I love writing and reading, and I don’t want to spend my whole life going in and out of new book clubs. I want to share the love with hundreds of high school kids so maybe they’ll love and appreciate it too.

“You would be a better ________.” Oh really? Would I? I’m so glad you know me so well. *eye roll*

“Oh honey, get away while you still can.” I have heard this so many times from people who are English teachers right now. It is so frustrating especially from people who are in the field I want to study in. Just remember, though, as long as you’re going into it with passion and excitement, it won’t suck. And if don’t like it someday down the road, then try something different!

“You won’t make it.” This is for all you performance, theater, and music majors. I don’t understand why people feel so entitled to tell you this. Most of the time, they have no idea what they’re talking about. I don’t understand why people can’t just keep their opinions to themselves sometimes.

“Oh, but don’t you want a family? How will you have time for both?” I personally, do want a family and will be able to do both. But honestly, not everyone wants a family. And assuming they do is pretty rude. I will be able to grade papers and make it to my kids’ sporting events or concerts. No, we might not be able to sit down and eat three meals a day together and no, I may not be able to be there every second of their days. But, I will still strive to be the best mother AND teacher I can be.

People are so ready to jump on college students’ backs and tell them what they shouldn’t do with their lives and it is so frustrating to us. Most of us have chosen careers and majors that mean something to us and they are things we are on fire for. I love the idea of getting to teach high school kids about parts of speech and Shakespeare. It excites me!! So please, do not tell me that I won’t be good at it, or that it’s not worth the paycheck. Because to me, no matter what the career, if you love it, then it’s worth it.