Minors

If you have ever questioned your major or worried about getting a job after college in your field, you need to do this: Declare a minor!

Just from working for six months, I have seen its importance first hand and know it can get you a job. For example, my boss is a talented writer who majored in English but was able to work in a marketing department, and put her writing skills to good use, because she also had a minor in marketing. Here is another example; I am studying fashion design and merchandising but by having a minor in communications, I was able to intern at a magazine written for a community, not for fashion.

When you have a minor, employers know that you have diverse knowledge, experience, and skill sets. It’s like getting a two for one deal. Would you rather hire someone who solely studied fashion, or one who studied fashion but can also write about it (communications), or market it (marketing), or can produce it (product development).

Furthermore, if you do not have a minor but have a strong interest, you can declare a concentration. This will give you the chance to show employers that you are focused and passionate about a particular area or skill; you can demonstrate that on your resume and then elaborate on that experience in your interview.

Additionally, by having a minor, you are giving yourself a cushion. What if you can’t find a job in fashion? At least you can market yourself to be skilled in another area that interests you. If will ensure that you are more likely to get a job, and that you will get a job that you enjoy.

Even if you’re minor is somewhat random, for example dance, nutrition, or engineering, it shows that you are well rounded. No matter what you choose to study, make the most of your education and don’t let those free electives go to waste!