Title: Is Pursuing a Degree in Women’s, Gender, & Sexuality Studies a Worthwhile Path?
Deciding on a college major is a significant decision, especially when your passions revolve around social issues like gender-based violence. If you’re passionate about advocating for gender equality and envision making it a core component of your career, you might wonder: is a Women’s, Gender,, & Sexuality Studies (WGSS) degree worth pursuing?
In my experience, expressing interest in WGSS often elicits mixed reactions. Many people tend to dismiss the major, sometimes with laughter, skepticism, or questions about its practicality. Some friends have even suggested the field has become “useless,” especially in the current political climate, like the Trump administration era. Despite such perspectives, I believe that advancing understanding and promoting equality in gender issues is more vital now than ever before.
The question is: am I naive for viewing this field as valuable? Would it be smarter to choose a more traditionally respected major, such as Sociology, and possibly focus on a gender equality concentration within it? These are common considerations among students passionate about social justice and advocacy.
For those navigating similar crossroads, my advice is to consider your long-term goals. If your mission is to actively combat gender-based violence and promote equality, a degree in WGSS can provide you with essential knowledge and a strong foundation for advocacy work. Additionally, pursuing advanced degrees like a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) or a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) after your undergraduate studies can expand your career options and deepen your expertise.
Ultimately, choosing a major aligned with your passions is a personal decision—one that requires balancing practical considerations with your commitment to social change. Follow your convictions, and remember that the impact you aim to make is valuable, regardless of prevailing opinions.
Note: If you’re considering professional graduate degrees, these can further enhance your ability to create meaningful change and open doors to broader opportunities in social services, policy, and advocacy.