Relevance of Lists like 'College Majors That Earn The Least Money'?

Hi! I've seen some articles floating around with titles like 'College majors that earn the least money.' Do you guys think these lists are accurate, and should they impact my decision what major to choose?

Headlines like 'College majors that earn the least money' do provide some data-driven insights about relative salary prospects. These lists typically use census or Bureau of Labor Statistics data to paint a broad-brush picture of salary outcomes, and they do have some degree of accuracy. However, keep in mind that there are many factors other than your major that will influence your earnings, like the industry you work in, the company you work for, your role within that company, where you live, and how much education you continue to pursue after undergrad.

Your decision to choose a major should be a balance of your interests, academic strengths, and long-term career goals. If you truly enjoy a subject and can see yourself thriving in a career related to that subject, you're more likely to find success even if it's not on the top of the 'most lucrative majors' list. Imagine dedicating four years, or potentially more if you pursue a graduate degree, to studying something you aren't interested in. That might lead to a career you're not passionate about.

If financial security is a high priority for you, it's a good idea to do some independent research on job prospects and average incomes in the fields you're considering. This could include talking to professionals in those fields. But remember, there's always the potential to carve out a lucrative career if you're passionate, hardworking, and adaptable, no matter your major. For example, a writer might not earn as much as an engineer right out of college, but if they write a best-selling novel or a highly successful script, they could easily surpass many other professions in terms of income.

The key is finding a balance between your personal interests and the practical concerns of life after college. It's okay to take these lists into consideration but don't let them dictate your decisions entirely.