Lately, I have noticed that people are quick to judge what other people do with their life. I've been asked if I am taking "real" classes, or people tell me "it must be nice to get to play around all day while I have to write a 10-page research paper." Certain degrees or areas of study seem to be the only ones that are "real" anymore. It is time to change the stigma and look at the big picture.
I am a Musical Theatre major. I am going to school to be a better singer, dancer, and actor in the same degree. My classes do involve things like yoga, ballet, and improvisation games. However, I also have to complete written assignments on time, show up to class on time (whether it be at 8:00 in the morning or 2:00 in the afternoon), read materials and textbooks that broaden my knowledge of things related to my major, analyze literature, work with peers on group projects, and memorize presentations to give in class.
All these tasks must be completed for every college student to earn a degree. It doesn't matter if your major is in math, science, humanities, or art. My work is different than your work, but that doesn't mean that my work is any more or less difficult than yours. It is simply different.
The next argument tends to be "so what do you plan to do after graduation?" The big career question. The value of a career is often dependent on two factors: income and stability. Rather than focusing on those specific aspects of a job, why don't we appreciate and celebrate when people find a job?
People having jobs improves the economy and society as a whole. When people have jobs, they have money. When they have money, they can spend it on things they need and, in some cases, things they want, therefore continuing the circulation of money. In my career path, work is not always guaranteed.
Actors everywhere work side jobs trying to make ends meet for most of their lives. However, everyone has their own steps to success in their career path, and nothing is easy. Every job requires work; that is why it is called work. Doctors have to go through years of schooling and work up to their goals. Teachers must deal with budget cuts and too frequent changing of staffs until they find a school that lets them stay. In the long run, everyone has struggles, and everyone has success.
What is important is that people do what they love and what they are passionate about. The more people chase their dreams and achieve their goals, the happier of a society we will have. Yes, it is nice to make money, have a stable career, and have a fun college experience that isn't clouded by too many nights in because of homework. No one's choices on what to do with their life is perfect, but everyone's choice is valid and should be valued as a major contribution to society.
