My Interest in Arts as a Science major

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As a student studying a minor at university, I often get asked why am I taking a minor in English Language and not one that is similar to my major. For some, an English degree is not worth it in today’s society as it isn’t a lucrative field.

English graduates don’t have a huge paycheck like those in other fields; however, I find this area of study to be quite versatile.

With the rise of STEM courses, English and Arts degrees, in general, have seen a reduction in the number of students. My university is an example of that. Most students pursue STEM-related fields, like me.

I am a Natural and Environmental science major, and I’ve been a science student for well over six years. My desire to pursue a degree in Arts came in my third year when I realized my interest in literary arts.

Aside from my interest in literature and reading books, studying English has allowed me to analyse the world in a way that is different from the scientific rules. In science, the use of scientific methods is vital when assessing complex phenomena to arrive at a probable conclusion.

On the other hand, applying the skills of an English degree enhances my ability to interpret complex social and human issues. By reading different literary texts and articles from various period settings and diverse themes, I can understand and analyze the complex relationships between history, the author, and their background, which influences their writing.

Movies produced based on books are places where I get to analyse characters. I scrutinize the characters to understand their actions as it relates to the decisions they make and their motivations.

This connection helps me do some inner introspecting to examine myself and how I can relate to the character.

One of my favourite Classics, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is a wonderful piece to read - Books will always be a hundred times better than movies.

However, the 2005 rendition of the book is amazing, it brought to life the heroine Elizabeth Bennet (Kiera Knightley). She stands out as a woman ahead of her time to the social constructs and ethical restraints of her time.

For instance, her outburst at Mr Darcy (Matthew Macfayden) is unusual and inconceivable for a lady in 18th-century England.

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Now, the book gives a more comprehensive detail of the story and just like most romantic tales, it ends rather beautifully.

A must-read if you enjoy Classic literature and Historical drama.

One thing I’ve realized is that history is significant in literary analysis because it influences the individual as well as their behaviours.

This is where the beauty of literary analysis is expressed. Although its approach differs from the scientific analysis, its outcomes are equally as significant.

In addition to that, a degree in the English Arts has improved my communication and speaking skills. I have this certain fascination for people who speak with utmost eloquence laced with proper sentences, rich vocabulary and rapport.

This is a skill that is quite lacking in today’s society, and mastering this skill sets one apart from others. Hence, I am glad that my communication and speaking skills have improved effectively.

I’ve been doing this quite often lately. Whenever I read a text or come across specific words that I don’t know the meaning of, I quickly search for the meaning and add it to my vocabulary list.

I also mentally register that word in my head so I remember to use it when speaking or writing. I recently came across the words didactic, pedagogic, and senescence, to list a few.

As a science-arts student, I have a double perspective on life. Equipped with a liberal arts literacy, I get to understand the mystery of life from the perspectives of science and arts, as life consists of both disciplines.

However, you do not necessarily need a degree in a certain field to be a well-rounded individual. There has to be an inner subjectivity when choosing the pathway that satisfies one’s ideals.

A French poet and critic, Rémy de Gourmont made a statement that concludes this all.

Art includes everything that stimulates the desire to live; science, everything that sharpens the desire to know. Art, even the most disinterested, the most disembodied, is the auxiliary of life.

Have a nice day.

Dee.