For a topic that I have so many words and opinions towards, this article has been difficult to write. How can I engage my audience to view my perspective outside of their own? This is very difficult when my target audience is very stubborn in their linear ways (I am stubborn too). However, I do my best to understand others based off of their perspective, so I ask the same going forward. Please stop degrading my art major and my choice to pick a major I love because I am paying for it and I know the consequences.

Often times people try to tell me about the lack of income I will have or job opportunities. Well, here is the thing...

1. I am well aware of the highest paying jobs (I do know how to use google). Money will not dictate my life. As long as I have stability for my basic needs, I do not need all of the extras.

2. Just because you are not aware of a job opportunity for me does not mean that they do not exist. I am a firm believer in the concept that if you work hard enough and take actions to further your personal growth then the opportunities will find you. I do not fear finding a job, so neither should you. Yes, I will admit that sometimes I feel discouraged but I am never doubtful.

Those are just the two main issues people have with my major, but to be truthful it is none of their business. My friends and family support me. Some may say, "do not tell people your major then if you do not want their opinion," or "who cares what they say anyway." Here is my response:

A person can only not be discouraged for so long until people keep nagging them. I have turned this discouragement into a reason to further my advocacy of the arts.

You may be asking, what is it that people say to you?

"Do not waste your time away with that pottery thing."

"It is a good thing you are a good waitress with the major that you have."

"Are you even going to be able to find a job... you will need a sugar daddy."

Those are just a few and they are slightly funny. However, people have said worse with a tone that was not all in good fun. Along with words, I have been given all sorts of facial expressions that are demeaning.

Here is a good example of what a stranger has said to a friend with an art education major:

"He said, 'As any smart human being should, your goals should always be set high, and that the only way to be happy in life is to be financially stable' and that 'being someone who appreciates the unnecessary things in life is not the way to live.' He also didn't fail to mention that 45-65 thousand dollars a year doesn't seem like the idealistic wage a young girl of my age should strive for, And about how he owns businesses and has a bunch of things that cost a lot of money and that's the kind of thing I should have goals toward achieving." - Emily Hamilton

So as you can see, art majors get a variety of comments from low spirited individuals.

This is why I care about art and you should to:

Art is culture and without art there would not be preservation or appreciation for culture (at least not outside of your basic textbook). Art is expression and communication. Art is found everywhere, especially in unexpected ways. Art can shape society, reflect personal views and emotions, or simply display beauty.

Art is a different form of language. This type of language connects to the world through different forms using visuals, audio, tactility and more. Many things happen when a person views or creates art. People learn how to observe, innovate, envision, reflect, and form self-evaluations I choose to let my students be aware of who I am as an artist-teacher. Art promotes individual growth, problem-solving and collaborative engagements. Curiosities, identities and awareness to culture begin to form.

Imagine a world without art.

A world without art would be very dark and cold. It would be quiet and emotionless. Art does not have to be luxurious or expensive. It can be something you use or listen to everyday. Think of your favorite music artists or the paintings that decorate your house.

Listed are some quotes from art majors and non-art majors who care about art as well:

"Art is super important, especially to kids. Mostly because this education system focuses on teaching them all the same to make sure they all pass the same tests. Art is something that can be expressed freely. There's no pass or fail, or strict guidelines. I think it's important to constantly be able to express yourself, and art allows that 100 percent!" -Charli Achinger

"It's not just about the skill of being able to create good stuff that's most valuable but it's about building character, learning patience and connecting with others and that will benefit you in everything you do outside of art." - Chelsie Huebner

"Art education does so much for so many student. I can't tell you how many students I've encountered ALREADY that say that they need a class like that to get through their day, or that it's their outlet for the way their life is. Or even to the fact that it's proven that art is directly linked to communication skills, problem-solving skills, collaboration, confidence, and many more things that students of all ages need in order to become a well-rounded individual. Already I see these kinds of things in students and I don't even have my own classroom yet. I will be the teacher who shows students how to appreciate not only art, and all its positive attributes, but to be a kind person to others." -Emily Hamilton

"Me: 'You're doing a great job! Is that a brief case you made?'
Student: No, It's an adult backpack! For when Lebron James goes to college! I seriously can't wait to become an art teacher " -Jordan Hector

So, I ask this of you who do not understand why we do what we do. PLEASE stop giving us "that" look or telling us we are in the wrong field.

Some of us do not need a million dollars or a lot of material things to enjoy the richest parts of this world. We love what we do and as far as I am concerned that is all that matters.

Also, I just want to say that I appreciate all of my supporters and mentors. The people who continuously encourage and promote me keep me going. Thank you for believing in me!