Struggling to Find Work: The Paradox of Arts Degrees in a Changing Economy
In a world where the job market is increasingly competitive, one California woman's story has sparked a debate about the value of arts degrees. With three bachelor's degrees and a master's degree, she's been laid off three times in two years, and people are questioning the employability of her chosen fields.
The Layoff Conundrum
Getting laid off is a challenging experience, and it's not just about personal attacks. It's about the economy, and the reality of inflation and job market shifts. The woman, who goes by the TikTok handle @funemployedbadb, has a unique situation. She has degrees in Spanish, communications, and dance, as well as a master's in journalism. But her story raises an important question: Are arts degrees still valuable in today's job market?
The Debate Over Arts Degrees
Her viral TikTok post, with over 1.4 million views, has ignited a discussion. Some people argue that her degrees are not as 'employable' as those in STEM fields. One commenter sarcastically suggested, 'You majored in hobbies.' Another accused her of studying 'high school electives.' A third commenter was more colorful, stating, 'You are qualified to report about the latest episode of Dancing with the Stars on Telemundo. Not much else.'
These reactions highlight a long-standing perception that arts degrees are less valuable. Some call them 'just put the fries in the bag degrees.'
The Evolution of Degree Value
Historically, any college degree was a significant advantage. In 1940, only a small percentage of the population held degrees, making them a rare and prestigious achievement. Fast forward to 2023, and the landscape has changed. According to Statista, 37% of men and 40% of women now have college degrees. The National Center for Education Statistics reports similar trends, showing a significant increase in degree holders over the decades.
However, as college became more accessible, the value of degrees shifted. People began to choose majors based on data showing that any degree increases earnings. This led to a surge in STEM degrees, which are often seen as more valuable in the job market.
STEM vs. Arts: The Debate Continues
A 2017 Census Bureau survey found that STEM graduates earned 37% more than those with history or social sciences degrees. But the New York Times reported a caveat: the advantage of STEM degrees diminishes over time, and by age 40, earnings in arts-related fields can catch up. Forbes echoed this, emphasizing that a liberal arts education fosters valuable soft skills like critical thinking and problem-solving.
So, while the woman's situation is challenging, it invites a discussion about the evolving job market and the value of different degrees. Will arts degrees remain relevant, or will they need to adapt to the changing economy? The answer may lie in finding new opportunities and pivoting in a competitive job market.
The Takeaway
The story of @funemployedbadb highlights the ongoing debate about the value of arts degrees. It's a reminder that the job market is dynamic, and degrees that were once considered valuable may need to be reinvented. As the economy shifts, so must our understanding of degree value and the skills that employers seek.
