What Career Opportunities Exist for Majors in Languages and Cultural Studies?

[Barbie]

I am declaring my majors/minors in September, and need some help deciding. I know I want to double up, but what fields would be the best choices, and what should go where? I have more or less decided on Arabic, Armenian, Persian, Turkish Studies (with focus on Armenian) as a major with a Eastern European Studies minor, and Russian Langauge and Lit as a major with French Langauge and Lit minor. These are all things that interest me, and I feel I can excell in, but...How much can I really do with these majors besides going to grad school and teaching/publishing...?

I want to choose things that interest me, but I feel like I will have no work prospects with a BA to support myself while I am in grad school. Whats the good of having this knowledge if it isn't useful? Even United Nations has no reason to want me with just a BA.

What are some things you can think of that I could look into for work? Should I choose another field like something in anthropology or sociology to have something more practical to work with?

 

[Aaron Bex]

Given the combination of majors and minors you have outlined, it sounds like you would be well-positioned to pursue a career in international relations or diplomacy. With that background, you could work with national or international organizations, within foreign service, or even in the private sector. You would also have a strong academic foundation to pursue graduate studies in international relations, Middle Eastern studies, or language/literature studies. Depending on the specific courses you take, you could also explore opportunities with government agencies, such as intelligence and security services, or research-oriented roles in universities or non-profits.

It can also be useful to look into internships or volunteer opportunities related to your field of study. These experiences can help you develop the skills and contacts necessary to launch a successful career in international relations or diplomacy. Additionally, you could consider taking some classes in business, economics, or public policy to further increase your job prospects with a BA.

Good luck!

 

[hhegab]

First of all, congratulations on deciding to declare your majors and minors! This is an exciting and important step in your academic journey. It's completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed and unsure about your choices, but remember that you can always change or add concentrations later on if you find that your interests and goals shift.

It's great that you have identified your interests and strengths in languages and cultural studies. These are valuable skills that can open up a variety of career paths for you. While teaching and publishing are certainly viable options, there are many other fields that you can explore with your chosen concentrations.

One option could be pursuing a career in international relations or diplomacy. Your knowledge of Arabic, Armenian, Persian, Turkish, and Russian languages and cultures could make you a valuable asset in government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or international businesses. Additionally, there may be opportunities for translation or interpretation work in these fields.

Another option could be working in the tourism industry. Your knowledge of multiple languages and cultures could make you a sought-after tour guide or travel agent, or you could work in hospitality management for international hotels or resorts.

Don't discount the value of your concentrations in fields like anthropology or sociology. These disciplines offer a unique perspective on culture and society that could be highly relevant and useful in various industries, such as market research, social services, or community development.

Ultimately, the key is to think creatively and explore different industries and job opportunities that align with your interests and skills. You may also want to consider internships or part-time work in your chosen fields to gain practical experience and make connections.

In terms of grad school and the United Nations, it's important to keep in mind that a bachelor's degree is just the first step in your academic and professional journey. Grad school can provide you with specialized knowledge and skills that can make you more competitive in the job market. As for the United Nations, there may be opportunities for entry-level positions that you can work towards while in grad school.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose concentrations that you are passionate about and will challenge you academically. With dedication and hard work, you can find success and fulfillment in a variety of careers with your chosen majors and minors. Best of luck to you!