Is Pursuing an English Language and Literature Degree the Right Choice for Me?
As I stand on the verge of a new academic journey at 29, I find myself contemplating a significant decision: enrolling in an English Language and Literature degree through the Open University. Living with my parents and working part-time in a supermarket— a job that doesn’t bring me joy—has led me to reevaluate my future. My journey has been anything but straightforward; I initially embarked on a Film Production course at a traditional university back in 2021, driven by my passion for movies. Yet, due to my struggle with severe mental health issues, including borderline personality disorder and anxiety, combined with a misguided coping mechanism involving alcohol, I found it challenging to collaborate with peers. Ultimately, I decided to leave that path behind.
Fast forward a few years, I’ve embraced sobriety and lost weight, but my mental health still presents its challenges, albeit with improved anxiety levels. The thought of turning 30 next April while still living at home weighs heavily on me, not to mention my dissatisfaction with retail work. Recognizing the need for a degree or skills that could pave the way for a meaningful career, I initially gravitated towards environmental science. However, I withdrew from an Access course when I faced difficulties with the mathematics component. Choosing the Open University felt like the right move for me—an environment that offers flexibility, allowing me to study without the distractions and memories of traditional classroom settings, where I often felt out of place.
After careful consideration, I narrowed my options down to two fields: Data Science or Arts and Humanities, particularly English Language and Literature. I let my passion guide me towards the latter. I have always been an avid reader and writer, spending my time immersed in short stories, novels, and even crafting my own screenplays and horror tales throughout my twenties. Writing is my true love, and I believe it aligns with my strengths, particularly my imaginative nature and solid research skills. With a curriculum that excites me, I feel this degree could be the key to unlocking my potential.
Yet, doubts linger regarding my career prospects. Will an English degree lead to a rewarding job, especially considering I will be 32 by the time I graduate? I’m eager to break free from retail and my hometown as soon as possible. Part of me worries that I should pursue a degree in a more lucrative field like Data Science or Computer Science, where the job opportunities and salaries seem more promising. However, I understand that both of these paths are highly competitive and heavily reliant on math skills—an area where I’ve struggled in the past.
I’ve researched potential careers stemming from an English degree, and a few options resonate with me:
- Freelance Writer or Creative Writer
- Journalist
- Proofreader (although I wonder about the future of this role in the age of AI)
- Archivist
Over the past couple of years, I’ve wrestled with the question of what career to pursue. Writing, proofreading, and archiving have continually surfaced as potential paths. Each aligns closely with my skills, interests, and values.
So here I am, weighing the risks and rewards of my decision. Should I follow my passion for the written word, or pivot towards a more traditional path with better job prospects? The journey ahead is uncertain, but I’m ready to embrace it—one chapter at a time.
It’s commendable that you’ve taken the time to reflect deeply on your passions and career aspirations before making a significant decision about your education. Pursuing a degree in English Language and Literature can be a rewarding journey, both intellectually and personally. Here are some insights and practical advice to help you navigate this important transition:
Embrace Your Passion and Strengths
Intrinsic Motivation: Your love for reading and writing is a strong indicator that this path is right for you. Engaging in a field where you feel passionate can lead to greater satisfaction, perseverance, and creativity, which are crucial when facing the challenges of higher education and later career opportunities.
Skill Development: An English degree will not only enhance your writing skills but will also improve critical thinking, analysis, and communication—skills that are highly valuable in many professions. Your experience with writing screenplays and short stories is a solid foundation; use your coursework to expand those skills further, exploring different genres and forms.
Career Prospects and Skills Application
Your concerns about job prospects are valid, especially in a competitive job market. However, the skills you develop from an English degree can open various paths:
Diverse Career Options: As you mentioned, opportunities such as freelance writing, journalism, and proofreading exist, and they can also lead to roles in marketing, content creation, or even public relations. The digital landscape continues to grow, providing new avenues for writers and content creators.
Adaptability and Lifelong Learning: Consider that many English graduates find themselves in unexpected but fulfilling roles. The ability to articulate ideas clearly and creatively makes you an asset in various sectors, including tech, non-profits, education, and more. Being adaptable and willing to learn new skills will serve you well throughout your career.
Build a Portfolio: Start building a portfolio of your writing, whether through a blog, online platforms, or contributions to local publications. This not only enhances your resume but also provides practical experience and showcases your writing style to potential employers.
Networking and Professional Development
Join Communities: Whether online or in your local area, finding writing groups or literary circles can help you connect with like-minded individuals. These communities offer support, feedback, and potential collaboration opportunities that can enhance your learning experience.
Internships and Work Experience: Look for internships or volunteer opportunities in writing or related fields. Gaining real-world experience—even part-time—can significantly boost your employability and provide insight into different career paths.
Considerations for the Future
Realistic Planning: While you hope to move out of your parents’ house, consider setting small, achievable goals related to both your studies and personal life. This can provide a clearer pathway to independence without overwhelming pressure.
Financial Planning: Be mindful of the financial implications of studying and the potential return on investment. Research scholarships, grants, or part-time employment options that can help support your education.
Broaden Your Skills: If you have the interest, you might consider taking some supplementary courses in digital literacy, coding basics (which are increasingly useful even in non-tech roles), or business communication. This can make you even more marketable no matter what career you ultimately pursue.
In conclusion, while you may initially feel uncertain about your decision, pursuing a degree in English Language and Literature aligns closely with your passion and skills. It can lead to a fulfilling career, especially if you remain open-minded and proactive about building your professional network and gaining diverse experiences. Trust your instincts, embrace the journey ahead, and you just might find that you’re not making a mistake at all, but rather forging a path that feels authentic and rewarding.