Flexible Career Paths for Graduates in Philosophy and History
The world is full of diverse and multifaceted opportunities for graduates in philosophy, history, and similar fields. Often perceived as “useless” in the job market, these majors are anything but. This article explores the various sectors where graduates from philosophy, history, and related disciplines find success, backed by real-life stories.
Breaking Down Stereotypes: Critical Thinking and Versatility
Philosophy is frequently referred to as “the useful degree” due to its emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving skills. As a philosophy graduate myself, I can attest to the broad applicability of these skills in different sectors. Furthermore, critical thinking is highly valued in many industries, making these degrees a gateway to a myriad of career paths.
Real-Life Success Stories
Many of my acquaintances and colleagues from these academic backgrounds have carved out unique careers:
A Merchant Banker with a Classics Degree
A friend of mine with a degree in Classics Latin – a combination of classical languages – is thriving in a merchant bank in London. His older brother, also with a similar degree, is currently a senior producer at the Discovery Channel. This demonstrates how a Classics degree can be instrumental in finance and media.
A Geography Graduate in Corporate Leadership
A graduate with a degree in Geography now serves as the chairman of an international financial company. He has been honored with the naming of a couple of libraries and conference centers after him. This exemplifies how a Geography degree can lead to leadership roles in the corporate world.
An NGO Worker with Media Studies
A media studies graduate is teaching writing and media skills, and running a cooperative's media outreach. This shows how a degree in media can be used not only in traditional roles but also in non-profit organizations and community engagement.
A Creative Career without a Degree
While these success stories are inspiring, it's also important to note the diverse paths followed by others. For instance, a friend of mine, who dropped out of high school at 17, became a professional musician playing the bassoon in the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. This example underscores the flexibility and adaptability of graduates in the arts and music fields.
The Importance of Soft Skills
According to many employers, a degree in history or philosophy is often seen as “college degree generic.” This is perfectly fine, as there are numerous jobs that require someone who is reasonably intelligent, can write coherently, and has some general understanding of how the world works. These skills are typically learned and refined on the job.
Examples of Careers with Broad Entry-Level Requirements
Some basic business functions like Human Resources or finance can be learned through degrees in other fields. For example, a history graduate can find a job in the insurance industry, specializing in international insurance. My high school friend, who majored in history and later worked for the Export-Import Bank of the United States, exemplifies this versatility.
Ultimately, while many jobs require specific skills, the versatility and adaptability developed through studying philosophy, history, and related disciplines can open doors to a wide range of opportunities. The key is to embrace the unique set of skills and perspectives gained from these academic pursuits, and apply them creatively in diverse sectors.
Conclusion
So, while the traditional career paths might not be the most direct, the skills and mindset gained from studying philosophy or history can be incredibly valuable. Whether you're interested in finance, non-profit work, law, or creative fields, the tools for success are often there, just waiting to be applied in new and exciting ways.