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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]^^Plus, this caption from the "story" says it all:

"Jon Salm, who recently graduated from college with an English major and philosophy minor, is looking for a job in data-driven marketing, business intelligence or media analytics."

The kid isn't going for jobs that use the skills he gained in school.  If he knew he wanted these kinds of jobs, there were probably way better majors for him.  So who's fault is it that he can't find a job in that field?  HIS OWN.  Has nothing to do with his major.  I was an English major and knew I wasn't going into anything heavily "data-driven."  Duh.  I still managed to build a successful and well-paying professional career based on my strengths, education and interests.  [/quote]

So basically, we are to conlcude that the liberal arts are "dead" or en route to a slow "death".   What happens to the Williams/Amhersts of the world?  Do they go away?  [/quote]

Of course that is not what we are to conclude.  We are to conclude that kids who think they can simply pick any major, do zero internships or research into possible career fields, and waltz into a job are kidding themselves.  THAT is what is over.  Just because you major in engineering or business doesn't necessarily qualify you for engineering or sales jobs.  If your grades were mediocre and you spent your summers lifeguarding, you're probably not heading for an awesome entry level gig with growth potential after college.  If you were an English major who took the time to research careers, apply for and win internships, and bother learning how to relate your educational skills/experience to the field you want to enter, chances are you'll do quite well.  [b]You can't wait until graduation to have a plan[/b].[/quote]

IMO, this is the crux of it. I work in higher ed and tell my students constantly that simply attending college -- even a good college -- isn't enough. You need to make a plan early and then determine what steps you need to take to get there. Such an important point that is so frequently overlooked![/quote]

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