She Strengthens

The Reality Check: Rethinking Your Degree

Are you tired of staring at your laptop screen in a crowded coffee shop, wondering if you made a mistake by choosing a certain major? You’re not alone. Many of us have questioned our decisions, especially when faced with the harsh reality of the job market.

The STEM Myth

We’ve all heard it before: STEM degrees are the key to job security and a lucrative career. But is that really the case? The truth is, many fields in science and law are experiencing a decline in hiring, while an influx of highly qualified graduates floods the market every year. This means that job competition has become increasingly fierce.

The Dark Side of Academic Careers

Take, for example, the field of biology. You might think that a biology degree would lead to a prestigious research position, but the reality is that many scientists spend years cycling through multiple institutions, struggling to find a permanent spot. In fact, one scientist featured in a New York Times article spent 25 years working at nine institutions in five countries before landing a tenure-track position.

STEM Degrees to Avoid

If you’re considering pursuing a STEM degree, beware of these oversaturated fields:

• Biology
• Biomedical sciences
• Chemistry

On the other hand, these STEM degrees are in high demand in the industry-driven market:

• Environmental engineering
• Computer sciences
• Petroleum/thermohydraulic engineering
• Nuclear engineering
• Materials science

The Lucrative Legal Career Myth

And what about law degrees? Don’t be fooled – the legal job market is not as secure as you might think. Nationally, the proportion of recent graduates who find work as lawyers has decreased by 10 percentage points since its peak in the last decade. The upper end of the profession may be recovering, but the middle and lower ranks remain depressed.

The Hidden Costs of Law School

Before you take on six figures of debt to pursue a law degree, consider the long-term financial implications. While the government may forgive some student loans after 20 years, you’ll still be left with a hefty tax bill on the eve of retirement.

A Word of Caution

So, before you make any rash decisions and take on student loans, think twice. Your English degree may not be as valuable in the job market, but that doesn’t mean you should rush into a STEM or law degree without considering the realities of the job market. Take a step back, do your research, and make an informed decision about your future.