Navigating the 'most employable college degrees' — what should I know?

I'm planning my academic life and I've been checking out lists of the 'most employable college degrees'. I'm still unsure what I should major in. Should I lean towards these 'employable' degrees or follow my passion? How much should employability factor into my decision?

It's a good thing to explore as you make plans for your future. It's true that you want a degree that'll open up job opportunities post-graduation, but it's equally essential to consider your interests and how much you'll enjoy studying a specific subject for a number of years.

When we talk about 'employability', it's important to understand that it doesn’t necessarily mean you'll get a job directly related to your major. Many employers are looking for transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork which can be acquired from a broad range of disciplines.

Metaphorically, think of it this way: 'Employability' is a bit like the horsepower of a car—it gives you an idea of potential performance, but the real outcome depends on how the driver (in this case, you) uses it. Even with degrees considered highly employable, like Computer Science or Engineering, your success will largely depend on your aptitude, passion, and dedication to the field.

On the other hand, pursuing a passion subject may lead to a deeper engagement with your studies, potentially resulting in higher grades, deeper knowledge, and more substantial personal growth—all of which can be attractive to future employers.

As for the balance between employability and passion, consider where you see yourself in the future and what kind of career you wish to have. Ultimately, you want a career that will satisfy both your professional and personal goals. In many cases, students strike a balance by pursuing a 'practical' major while also taking courses in their passion areas, or by double majoring or minoring in something more niche to them.

For example, you could major in Business, which is widely regarded as an employable degree, while minoring in Art History, if that’s your passion. This allows you to keep doors open for potential career paths while further exploring your interests.

And remember, college is not just about the academics. Many skills and experiences that increase employability come from outside the classroom—internships, part-time jobs, volunteering, clubs and organizations, leadership roles, and other extracurricular activities.

So in conclusion: consider employability, absolutely, but don’t forget to listen to your heart. Your educational journey is about you, your growth, and your future happiness—these factors can be as important as the practical considerations of post-degree employability.