Choosing a college major is a deeply personal decision, but it can also be influenced by external factors—especially family expectations. Many students experience pressure from their families to pursue more “practical” or “prestigious” majors, such as business, law, or medicine. However, for students who are passionate about the arts, this can lead to difficult conversations and feelings of doubt.
In this article, we’ll explore how to navigate family expectations when choosing an arts major and offer strategies to help you confidently pursue your passion while maintaining healthy relationships with your family.
Understanding the Value of an Arts Degree
The Power of Arts Majors
The arts cover a wide range of disciplines, including visual arts, theater, music, literature, and design. These fields offer students the opportunity to express their creativity, explore human culture, and engage with the world in unique ways. While arts degrees may not always lead to immediate high-paying jobs, they can provide lifelong skills that are valuable in many careers, such as problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking.
Common Arts Majors Include:
- Fine Arts (Painting, Sculpture, Photography)
- Performing Arts (Theater, Music, Dance)
- Graphic Design
- Creative Writing
- Fashion Design
- Art History
- Film and Media Studies
Arts graduates often pursue careers in the entertainment industry, publishing, advertising, education, and nonprofit organizations. The value of an arts degree extends beyond traditional job roles—it fosters creativity and innovation, which are in high demand in many fields.
The Pressure to Choose a “Practical” Major
Why Do Families Often Encourage “Practical” Majors?
Family expectations often stem from a desire to see their children succeed financially and professionally. Many parents view fields like business, law, and engineering as more “practical” because they typically lead to stable, high-paying jobs. As a result, arts majors are sometimes viewed as less secure or more risky, leading to concerns about job prospects and financial stability after graduation.
Additionally, parents may have their own preconceived notions about what a successful career looks like, often influenced by societal standards or their own experiences. While they may want the best for you, they might not fully understand the value of pursuing a career in the arts.
How to Navigate Family Expectations
1. Have Open and Honest Conversations
The first step in dealing with family expectations is to have an open and honest conversation with your family. Take the time to explain why you’re passionate about your chosen arts major and how it aligns with your long-term career goals. Share your vision for the future and discuss how pursuing your passion will lead to a fulfilling and successful career in the arts.
Action Step: Prepare for these conversations by researching career paths for arts majors. Show your family examples of successful people who have pursued arts-related careers, emphasizing how these fields can lead to opportunities in creative industries, entrepreneurship, and even business.
2. Be Clear About Your Career Goals
Many families worry about the lack of clear career paths for arts graduates. One way to address this concern is to outline specific career goals for your future. Research the potential jobs in your field and show your family how your major will lead to meaningful work. Whether you plan to become a graphic designer, a writer, or a museum curator, having a clear vision of your career trajectory can help ease their worries.
Action Step: Create a plan that includes the steps you will take after graduation, such as internships, networking opportunities, or further education. This will demonstrate that you’re not just pursuing a degree for the sake of passion but that you’re serious about building a sustainable career in the arts.
3. Highlight the Transferable Skills of an Arts Degree
One of the best ways to reassure your family about your choice of an arts major is to emphasize the transferable skills you will gain during your studies. Arts degrees often develop skills such as creativity, communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking—skills that are highly valued by employers across various industries.
Action Step: Explain how these skills can be applied in fields beyond traditional arts careers. For example, arts graduates can work in marketing, advertising, public relations, and digital media. Emphasize that an arts degree opens doors to many industries and careers that value creativity and innovation.
4. Suggest Compromises: Double Majors or Minors
If your family is particularly concerned about your job prospects after graduation, consider suggesting a compromise. Many students choose to double major or add a minor in a field that balances their passion for the arts with more “practical” skills. For example, a major in graphic design combined with a minor in business could help you pursue a career in design while also gaining skills that are valuable in the business world.
Action Step: Look into double major or minor options that align with your interests. If you’re interested in music, for example, you could combine your major in music with a minor in marketing or communications. This could provide a balance that satisfies both your passion and your family’s concerns.
5. Show Respect for Their Concerns
While it’s important to stand firm in your decision to pursue an arts major, it’s also essential to acknowledge and respect your family’s concerns. Understand that their worries come from a place of love and a desire to see you succeed. By having a respectful dialogue and demonstrating how your arts degree will help you achieve your goals, you can alleviate their concerns while maintaining a strong relationship.
Action Step: Validate their concerns by expressing appreciation for their support and interest in your future. Reassure them that you’ve carefully considered your choice and that you’re committed to making the most of your education and future career.
Navigating Your Own Path
Trust Yourself and Your Passion
At the end of the day, the decision to pursue an arts major is a deeply personal one. It’s important to trust yourself and your passion, as pursuing a career you love will lead to greater long-term satisfaction and fulfillment. If the arts are what truly inspire you, then it’s worth following that passion, even if it means facing initial opposition or skepticism from family.
Action Step: Reflect on your passion for the arts and how it aligns with your values and career aspirations. Remind yourself that the pursuit of your passion is valid and meaningful, regardless of external opinions.
Conclusion: Pursuing Your Passion with Confidence
Dealing with family expectations when choosing an arts major can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that your education and career path are ultimately your decision. By having open conversations, setting clear career goals, and showing the transferable skills of an arts degree, you can alleviate your family’s concerns and gain their support. Pursuing a career in the arts is a valid and meaningful choice, and by staying true to your passion, you’ll be setting yourself up for a rewarding and fulfilling future.