I often times find myself defending the reasons as to why I chose English as my major. Before attending Geneseo, I was told by many that English was not a major that would bring prosperity. I remember packing for college, contemplating the sacrifices I would have to make for my educational success, even if that meant disappointing some in the process. In spite, I was told countless times by my professor in high school that an English degree would get me nowhere, but in the line at an unemployment office. When asked by most of my friends, faculty members, even esteemed professors at SUNY Geneseo, they ask “Why English?” or they comment “Hmm. That’s interesting”. Their tone of voice is usually greeted with skepticism, rather than in awe. I came to understand why majoring in English develops an layer of uncertainty to those around me, in context, their reactions makes sense.
As Moran discusses in “Interdisciplinarity”, “English does not make a strong connection between education and training for future careers”. (Moran, 18). Throughout reading, Moran explains the value of English as it is a discipline in itself, more importantly, shaping knowledge on numerous platforms. He elaborates on the principle of English being the framework of multiple fundamentals, including higher acclaimed majors such as Physics or Biology. Analyzing the concept of English through Moran’s critical lens, along with my own reaction, reveals that, in distancing myself from English due to outside perspectives, I am hindering my own educational needs. While, at face value, I criticized my own choices because of the opinions of other people, rather than focusing on my aspirations. The dubiousness of the major inspires me to look at my education holistically, instead of pondering over the “what if’s.”
However, upon further contemplation, If choosing English as my major meant taking a risk in my academic career, is it really worth it? In brief, sitting in Professor McCoy’s class has only encouraged my expectations upon myself as an English major to grow, but as always, I still have some doubt.