Changes for the Arc Tuesday Talks blog

Hello readers!

It's been about two weeks since our last blog entry. We have completed most of the Liberal Arts majors and are ready to move on to a new focus area. Unfortunately, there's a reason for this current delay. As much as I can share with you today, our current office is in the process of expanding its staff along with its capabilities. In fact, the "ARC" or Advising Resource Center name is being replaced with a new one that will fit perfectly with the functions of the future office. So with that, I'm sad to say that the ARC Tuesday Talks will be on hiatus until September and will start up accordingly with a new major direction. Find out if we move towards engineering, health science, or business next! :)

Thanks for following and please stay tuned.

Philosophy

Have you heard of this one: I think therefore I am.- Descartes. Or what about this one (I really like this one): It requires a great deal of faith for a man to be cured by his own placebos.- John L. McClenahan

These are thought provoking statements that spiral further abstract critical thinking and lengthy conversations. Philosophy has spanned over 2500 years. It covers areas from politics, ethics, reality, religion, society, etc. It searches for truth and value among human life.
A major in philosophy is also a great springboard major that can prepare students for graduate studies, such as law school, medical school or other graduate study programs. From the major some skills that are gained are the following: thinking logically, critically, independently, and ethically. Strong oral and written communication skills are also major areas that are developed throughout the major.

To share more information with you about this major I have selected 3 very helpful videos that i believe sum up the philosophy major very well. Please enjoy!

History

History--If I could describe history in one phrase, it would be: "The storyteller of life". History shares the events of our pasts and gives insight to the future. Your life, my life,...we all have history. This is a personal note: History to me always seemed interesting because it let's you in on the lives of others from the past. It shares with you the lifestyle and ways of the world without you even having to be there. No, we can't say we've walked in each others' footsteps but we can say we've seen parts of steps either through literature, movies, or through stories passed on by family...but I digress.

So we know what history is. Now, what can I do with a history major? Well, as we know, teaching is always a popular choice for this major however, DON'T limit yourself only to teaching!! But wait, there's more!

Watch this video to learn more about the History major:

Common areas to work in with a History Major:
Government
Law
Politics
Non-profit organizations
Curatorial
Archival
Journalism
and yes, Education (including higher ed)
For more info, see this link: what can i do with this major

Just full of videos today! Have a good one!

Mathematics

For this entry I think I can spare you my witty attempt of sharing my idea of what I think about math. I will say this, it is ubiquitous-- there's no way around it and within everything that we do, we deal with  math in some form. It is a pure form of knowledge where other information is based off of it. From numbers to equations, shopping, driving, our paychecks- they all have to do with math. And I'm sure you're aware of this....

Let's just jump in to the reason you are even reading this entry today- What can you do with a math major and why would anyone want to major in it? Well, to answer the second question first, those who enjoy math, understand it, or like to approach problems in a logical, systematic way may excel at math and therefore, mathematics may be a great choice. Because it is involved in everything it is a very versatile foundational area, the first question will be answered by this: there's so much you can do with a mathematics major!

Other options:
Accountant
Actuary
Benefits Specialist
Biomathematician
Economist
Numerical Analyst
Teacher
Cryptologist
Demographer
Statistician
Systems Analyst
Data Analyst
Cartographer
Computing Analyst
Computer Engineer
Business
Investment Analyst

and MORE just click here: career profiles from math majors

One thing to keep in mind, math is in a lot of fields however, there may be majors that specifically designed to meet the needs of specific career options. A mathematics major can be a means to an end, or be the building block of which to continue on with; it's all based on your interest and passion within the area.

Cheers! :)

Internships

Today marks the 20th Blog entry since starting in January! We've come a long way and have discussed a number of majors and careers thus far. Instead of spotlighting another major this week, we are dedicating this entry to: INTERNSHIPS!


What is an internship?
 An internship is a supervised, para-professional position  that allows individuals learning experiences and skills for future professional work. Most students will start an internship around their Junior/Senior year, but will start looking for internships around the end of their Sophomore year. For some majors, it is required to have an internship completed prior to graduation. Presently, employers are looking for students who have had at least one internship, but 2-3 internships can be advantageous. Internships may last between 1-2 semesters and may be part-time or full time.

Why be an intern?
Ask any employer- internships are the gateway to not only work experience, but to networking and possibly a future career opportunity. Employers are looking to see real, dedicated, on-the-job experience for entry level employees. For 2011-2012 recruiting trends, 71% of respondents stated that their organization will be seeking out interns during the academic year.This means-- it is quite important to get an internship prior to graduation in order to maximize your potential work opportunities. Also, the skills that you learn on the job are vast. An internship allows you to try some of your career interests out and leaves room for mistakes, learning, and development without as many high expectations as a professional employee may have.

Paid vs. Unpaid internships:
While its great when we can get paid for the work that we do, not all internships are paid. Paid interns earn between $10-15. For the many that are unpaid, something far greater is to be expected: real, transferable skills will be developed as well as gift of expanding your dedication to the work that you do!From my experience of working 3 internships in my life: paid or unpaid internships are invaluable! You never know what may come from an internship, like a full-time position. Last year, 39% of internships were converted to full-time positions. Also, if an internship is a part of your major's requirements, you probably will receive credit for the work that you've done.

Other options:
Volunteer experience- supplies great experience as well.
leadership in professional or non-professional organization- if you have time outside of class, join a student organization or executive board to broaden leadership skills. Leadership opportunities definitely stretch your ability and knowledge about your personality.


Having a degree is important, no doubt, however, to stand out amongst other students who have just received a piece of paper just like you, think about your future in interning.
For more information please see the links below:

http://internships.about.com/od/internshipsuccess/u/success.htm
http://www.wetfeet.com/advice-tools/internships/unpaid-internships-no-pay-no-gain
http://www.imdiversity.com/villages/careers/entry_level/wsj_internships_0308.asp

Social Work

What would the world be like without social issues? Probably awesome, right? Well social issues seem to be inevitable. Now think, what would the world be like without social workers? There are a vast majority of social issues that occupy the minds of our society everyday. Luckily there are gifted individuals who study and work to help, advocate and empower others when dealing with personal difficulties.

Social workers are individuals who work to help others with social issues in a variety of ways. It may be work related, health related, community related or school related. Social workers work in a number of different environments such as hospitals, private practices, in research, schools, and community public service offices.Typically, there are two major types of social workers: social workers who deliver direct-service- (help people solve and cope with problems in daily lives); and clinical social workers- diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional issues.

For direct-services, a bachelors degree is the minimum requirement, however those wanting to do clinical work must receive at least a master's degree as well as a license. In the capacity of helping others, social workers also provide resources and referrals to clients who are in need of a service maybe outside of therapy. The clientèle that one may work with will vary depending on area of interest. From children and protective services to elderly and hospice care-- everyone can use a hand from a social worker.

Interested individuals will want to have the following interests:
Social- working/helping others
Artistic- creative ability

Some skills and abilities necessary: listening skills, people skills, compassion, organizational skills, problem solving skills, time management skills

Similar occupations to consider:
Health Educator
Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Counselor
Marriage and Family Counselor
Probation Officer
Correctional Treatment Center
Psychologist
Rehabilitation Counselor
School and Career Counselor
Social Service Specialist
Human Services Assistant

For more information on the social work major or this career field please check out the following links:


bls.gov
social workers
Oakland University- SW

Studio Art/ Art History

Mona Lisa by: Leonardo Da Vinci

 Art is the creative expression of the human imagination. Art covers areas from music to theatre and writing. For our purposes today, we will focus on studio art/fine art and art history. 

Studio Art- Studio art ties together two main pieces: visual communication and aesthetic expression. This may include but not limited to drawing, painting, photography, video, digital media, pottery, sculpting, etc. 

Art History -This may sound quite silly but art history studies the history of art from prehistoric times to current modern art (You probably already gathered that much from the title). However, it does not just a focus on the piece of work at hand, but also things that may have influenced it such as the following: culture, economics, politics, religion, and technology.

Studying studio art or art history as a major will not only help students strengthen their artistic creativity, but also develop written communication, critical thinking and visual analysis skills. Studio art courses tend to focus more so on the creation and techniques of art along with a specialty area.  Art history courses usually will involve an array of cultural courses in relation to art. Art is hardly just a western world talent. 

 

Transferable skills:

With an art major students will gain great transferable skills in communication and expression, work ethic, flexibility, and visual analysis amongst other skills.

Careers for Art majors:

Art history majors can find employment in art museums and galleries (education, administration, curatorial, registrar, sales, publications, development, public relations, exhibit design and preparation, archivist, travel guides), art sales (art and antique galleries, auction houses), education (K-12, university and college teaching), arts administration, publishing houses, historical societies, historic preservation, art conservation, library science, visual resource curatorship, art therapy, antiquarian book trade, artist representative, insurance claim adjusting, law (concerning copyright and art ownership) and landscape architecture. For non-teaching career alternatives in art history visit this web site: www.nd.edu/~crosenbe/jobs.html. 

Starry Night by:Vincent Van Gogh

The studio art program is intended for students who are considering careers as professional artists, or in one of the many fields with ties to the arts. Studio art majors can find employment in commercial and graphic arts, advertising, illustration, computer design, photographic studios, and galleries. Many career fields, however, require additional degrees or certificates in art history, museum practice, art education, library science, historic preservation, art conservation, arts administration, fine arts, etc.

For further information please check out the below links:

What can I do with this major?

Art Careers

Career Guide for Art History majors

What to do with a studio art major

Career Guide for Studio Art

 Lastly, here are some helpful tips for art majors:

- Volunteer, find an internship or study under a faculty member who has a side area still in art

- Foreign languages are very helpful and sometimes required at some universities (fluency in another language gives you more flexibility of where you can work)

- Really study art history- from paintings and origins, to artists and companies. (know your stuff)

- Join student organizations that can help manifest your skills

-Decide if this is an area of future career interest or if art is just a hobby (this field takes dedication!)

-A bachelors degree can get you entry level jobs, but advanced course work gives you better opportunities

-Consider the idea of relocation if you want to live closer to areas with larger markets for art

Have a great one and see you next Tuesday!

Bio...Chem..Biochem? Part 3 (yes, another series)

So far in this series we have covered information about the biology and chemistry major.Today we will be concluding our series with the biochemistry major, along with some of our final thoughts within these awesome sciences.

Biochemistry is the study of the chemical reactions necessary for life to exist (for example- photosynthesis). A student interested in biochemistry will study substances such as carbs, fats, and proteins, fats and proteins. One may also study about amino acids and their effects and functions within the human body.

The major is designed to prepare students for biochemical research, or graduate study in biochemistry. It helps prep students for molecular biology as well as prepare students for professional education in medicine, dentistry, veterinary, and other health sciences. Biochemistry is an area where getting involved in almost vital to a students future success. Students who seek out study groups, student organizations, and research opportunities develop more experience outside of just the class room to build on their skills.

Transferable skills:

Ability to utilize mathematical and scientific methods to solve problems

Comprehend research material

Work  with spreadsheets and statistical software

Critical thinking

ability to communicate and convey information effectively

Adapt to new findings in the field

A master degree is the least amount of education one would need in order to teach in a college or directing research and a PhD is preferred overall.

Please check out this link for Career options for this major. It includes the following career options:

Research

Scientific Technical Recruiting

Professor

Science Teacher

Doctor of medicine

Grant Writer

Here are a few links for further information

 https://access.bridges.com/cx/majors/Profile.do?majorId=65
http://portal.acs.org/portal/acs/corg/content?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=PP_ARTICLEMAIN&node_id=1188&content_id=CTP_003379&use_sec=true&sec_url_var=region1&__uuid=cb725b08-719d-47bf-87e4-c00a47f5cbaa

So let's recap!

Biology studies living organisms-- humans, animals, and microscopic organisms. There are many different subfields to biology.

 Chemistry is the study of atoms and elements and how they react when combined or separate. Chemistry focuses on the properties of biology. So one is needed for the other.

Biochemistry is the combination of both organisms and their reactions to different chemical structures.

Each area has a different focus but overlaps into another area of the sciences. When choosing which one best may suit you, focus on which area you find most satisfying and exciting. No matter which area, ask yourself these questions:

1. Do I enjoy laboratory work and research?

2. Do I enjoy solving problems through scientific methods?

3. Am I creative in my thinking?

4. Do I often ask the question why and wonder how things work?

5. Do you enjoy working with your hands and preforming routine work?

For each of the three, students should possess investigative, artistic, and realistic interests. 

Well, this concludes our series on Bio, Chem, Biochem! Until our next Tuesday! :) 

Bio...Chem..Biochem? Part 2 (yes, another series)

Chemisty!!! Let's just jump right in. 

When you think of Chemistry, what comes to mind? What came to my mind when I started thinking about it was probably "The Magic School Bus" with Ms. Frizzle!! I learned so much from that show when I was growing up!

It always covered information about chemicals and reactions; particles and molecules, ecosystems, astronomy, etc.

You may have had the same thoughts. Or maybe yours were a little like the picture to the left.

Whatever you thought chemistry was should center around the fact that chemistry is a science centrally concerned with the structure of atoms and elements and their reactions when combined or separated. Like biology, chemistry can focus on cells, and things that are microscopic.  Sometimes I like to think about biology and chemistry as one being a "bigger picture" and the other more detail oriented.Chemistry looks primarily at the properties of atoms and elements that make up biology. Chemistry is everywhere and is seen as the central science while it involves and overlaps all others.

With a chemistry major, you  will learn about molecules, and formulas; the periodic chart information.However, these are some of the transferable skills that you can use in this field of study or in others:

- utilize math and science rules to solve complex problems

- apply general rules to specific problems, form general rules or conclusions by combining pieces of information

-communicate effectively

-computer skills

-ability to see details at close range

-comprehension of research materials and written documents

Some basic interests that some students have that are interested in Chemistry should be the following:

Investigative- problem solving, discovery, asking the question "why" and "how"

Realistic- more practical, hands on labor that takes more of a simplistic vs. theoretical 

Conventional- more structured, routine work that consists of detailed precise measures

Education: Different parts/subcategories of chemistry require a different level of education. For research and development, a PhD is required. For quality control, analytical testing or assisting a senior chemist, a bachelors degree is the minimum. Medical school is another option for students who want to become doctors. As the market becomes more competitive its becoming more evident that the graduate level of either a masters or Ph.D level will help to give students a greater edge when it comes work placement.

 Lastly, when it comes to jobs, please don't believe that the only work for chemistry majors is lab work, although it is a common area.

Here's a list of other common careers:

Analytical Chemist
Chemist
Animal Nutritionist
Environmental Health Specialist
Chemical Reactor Operator
Food Chemist
Forensic Chemist
Pathologist
Physician
Pharmaceutical sales rep.

*Some of this list may require further education. Check this link out for more career options!

For more information, please check the links below. As always, enjoy! 
What is chemistry?
OU Chem Dept.

Bio...Chem..Biochem? Part 1 (yes, another series)

 

Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry? What's the difference between these disciplines? All three can lead to med school. All three may look at things microscopically. All three take a scientific approach at evaluating problems, but what makes these 3 areas stand out from each other? And how do you know which one will work best for you?Today we will be covering information about biology first. (this blog entry will be full of videos :D)

Biology is the study of all living organisms, whether that be in part (microscopically) or as a whole.  A biology major prepares students who are interested in laboratory work, medical school (or other specialty areas of medicine such as dentistry, optometry, veterinary, podiatry, etc.)There are many facets and subfields to biology. Let's just talk about a few that are most common. 

Some subcategories:

Microbiology-microscopic organisms and their

Anatomy- human body; organ, systems, and all

Botany- Plant biology

Zoology- Animal biology

Ecology- Study of the environment and us

Physiology- interaction of cells, organs, and muscles

Genetics- Study of hereditary features

Evolutionary Biology- The changes within cells and organisms over time through species adaptations

Virology- Study of viruses and the like

Neurobiology- Study of nerves and their information processing

Microbiology up close! 

Search Youtube for other specific subcategory videos!

 

For some students, it's hard to see past the typical jobs of just teaching biology or working in a laboratory. Although those are areas that individuals who are interested in biology can find careers in, there are other areas. The biggest question you have to ask yourself is what are your career goals, and what area of biology do you most find interesting?  Here's a list of other careers to consider as well as a video below :) 

Careers:

Laboratory Technician

Food and Dairy Quality Control Executive

Agricultural Scientist

Environmental Technician 

Forensic Scientist

Geneticist

Marine Biologist

Health related areas: Veterinarian, Physician Assistant, Podiatrist, etc. 

other career choices in biology

At the end of the day, one may need to ask the following questions:

1. Is researching an area I find stimulating or is the thought mind numbing?

2. Do I like to explore and looking at things more simplistically?

3. Am I interested in problem solving? Am I good at it?

For further information please check out this link, as well as the OU Biological Sciences page. 

Have a good one!

MTD: Music Theatre and Dance (part 3. Dance)

"EVERYBODY DANCE NOW!!!.... dun dun duh duh dun"- When you hear C&C Music Factory's Everybody Dance Now song, doesn't it make you want to just start dancing?!

Today's topic is the last of the 3 for our MTD series. I hope you are enjoying them so far. 

Dance is a universal action and movement. From culture to culture, dance represents many different things. For some it may be a way of expression. For some, it may fulfill a ritual. For others, it may be telling a story. Dance is evolving still and always changing in many directions. What may have been "cool" back in the day, such as the "Macarena" of the 90's, may not sit well with this generation that's more into maybe "the dougie", or crowd surfing (I categorize that as somewhat of a dance). Dance is a very popular art form with many different genres as well. 

The dance major allows for students to study and appreciate the art form, develop intricate skills and perfect current ability. It also allows for the expansion of knowledge amongst diverse types of dance. Because of dance's ability to express emotion yet also exert energy, here's a variety of venues that dance is a part of:

Group Workouts

Commercials

Choreography

Competition/ entertainment

or maybe, Business Presentations- Ted.com 

Transferable skills gained:

Problem solving- attention to detail, critical thinking, adaptation of techniques, forming perceptions, seeing connections

Communication- awareness of body language and control, ability to give and receive criticism, making keen observations

Artistic/Technical- working independently, creating and performing with ambition, completion of accurate and detailed work

Organizational- spatial memory, self-discipline, time management, meeting deadlines and working under pressure

Common jobs for Dance majors:

Dance Therapist

Professional Dancer

Choreographer

Arts Manager

Teacher

Community Dance Instructor

Dance Notator

College Professor

Workout Instructor

Booking Agent

Public Relations Manager

DANCE!!

Dancers can work in a number of venues, it doesn't always have to happen on University, School, or Theatre Hall stage. With as many transferable skills as this major provides, finding a job outside of dancing is quite the possibility. 

As we conclude our MTD: Music Theatre and Dance series, I leave you with a video from OU. Enjoy!!!

MTD: Music Theatre and Dance (part 2. Theatre)

"The theater, the theater, what's happened to the theater?

Especially where dancing is concerned

Chaps who did taps aren't tapping anymore

They're doing choreography..." - Danny Kaye, White Christmas

Theatre is the collaborative art form, combining performers who develop either real or imaginative story lines that are displayed in front of a crowd or audience. Theatre is challenging and a very high achieving area of study. For most college programs an audition is necessary. Theatre can combine singing, acting and dancing all in one performance.

Similar to a music major, the theatre major provides you with many great transferable skills (or advantages) that can work for many other careers. Just to name a few:

Major oral communication

Problem solving abilities

High motivation

Ability to work well with others

Adaptability

Ability to work under pressure

As a theatrical performer of many transferable skills, the doors of other opportunities will also be opened. Number one on the list for individuals interested in a theatre major is: Acting! (not a shocker)

 What's also involved in the major is learning about screen writing/ screen play writing, as well as theatre technology, producing, editing, directing, stage managing, and teaching.

Some non traditional careers outside of actually performing:

Hair and Make-up designer/director

Scenic Artist

Agent

Light Designer

Marketing Specialist/Director

Acting Coach

Recruiter

One channel to YOUTUBE would be : Inside the Actors Studio to learn more about how some actors got their start.

For more information on other careers besides acting click here.

as well as here :)

So here's a video to share more about the Theatre major! Enjoy and stay tuned for next week's part 3: dance major!

MTD: Music Theatre and Dance (part 1. Music)

Music, Theatre, and Dance...These are three large topics that we will be outlining in a series form over the next three weeks. The first of the three is Music.

Music is a form of art that involves tones, notes, instruments, beats, sound and silence. Musicians are lovers of music. They create it, edit it, compose it, direct it, teach it and love it. Music is everywhere! Radio, television (shows, commercials), therapy; we use music for mnemonic devices, for praise and worship in churches, for teaching in schools, for expression of emotions, and for many other reasons. 

Majoring in music can provide you with an vast experience with various genres, exposing you to the differences amongst cultures and parts of the world. Music majors can learn more about techniques, theory, how to teach it, writing music, and directing music. Musicians can perform music either solely or in a group. Traveling also may play a role in this major if one has the chance to perform or learn  in different locations around the world. 

Because music comes as a natural gift for some, it is important to know if you actually have it or not. Even those who are trained in music still lack some of the natural talents of hearing music in the artistic way. However on the flip side, one must also practice to stay talented and musical skills can be taught as well.  Music doesn't have to be just melodies and tunes, it can be as different as garbage can beats. The opportunities are endless!

Here are 6 top transferable skills gained from a major in music:

1. Ability to be creative and think outside the box

2. Ability to plan ahead (musicians usually have erratic schedules)

3.Ability to take responsibility (others will depend on you in this field)

4. Ability to collaborate and work effectively with others to meet goals

5. Ability to think and understand patterns

6. Ability to manage time well and handle several projects at once

Thinking about what else you can do with a major in music? Check out these careers:

• Accompanist
• Arranger
• Band Director
• Composer
• Disc Jockey
• Editor
• Music Promoter
• Music Therapist
• Voice Teacher
• Teacher
• Instrument Tuner
• Curator of Music

For more, see here :)

I also found this wonderful website that can give you lots of great info about majoring in Music. Check it out! majoring in music

So what's your favorite tune? As you all know, I love you tube. Here's a track from one of my favorite musical artists, Common. 

See you next week for Part 2- Theatre :)

Modern Foreign Languages/ Linguistics

¡Hola! ¿Cómo es usted? Salut! (Spanish) 

Comment allez-vous ? (French) 

Hallo! Wie geht es Ihnen? (German)  

Hello! How are you? (English) I hope you enjoyed reading the last entry on Majoring in Success. The topics for this Tuesday's talk are modern foreign languages and also the study of languages, linguistics!

This will be jammed pack so please, keep up.

There are all types of languages around the world.Through cultural integration, we have immensely grown in the way that we communicate. Oakland University currently offers some of the more popular languages such as French, German, Spanish, and Japanese. There are also a number of modern language minors that can really supplement a major.All of this is great, and learning a language sure has some major benefits, like being able to speak and work with a variety of people, or even just further developing your knowledge. However, with a major in a foreign language what exactly can you do?

Some of the more typical jobs are teaching (foreign languages, or teaching English as a second language) or interpreting (individuals, churches, organizations, government, speakers, etc).

 What if you have an interest outside of those two? Have you considered the following:

• Foreign trade and affairs
• International studies and relations
• foreign business
• International marketing
• Health care overseas
• Travel Agency/Agent
• Research of population

Skills to possess: 

Oral ability

Listening Skills

Acceptance of other culture

Interest/ understanding in diversity

 Having a major in a foreign language of choice can really prepare you for working in very diverse locations. If you are one that really likes different cultures and has dreams of traveling, this can become a reality. Please note that although foreign languages can set you a part from others that are only mono-linguistic, having either a concentration or minor in another area may better prepare you for other fields of work outside of just teaching or translating. 

Please check out more info here on foreign languages.

 Also for more ideas on what to do with a major in modern foreign languages, please click on this link.

 Linguistics is pretty similar to the major of a foreign language. Both fields have language as their center focus. Linguistics is the study of language, its origin, its meaning, the development, dialect, and the human body as to how language is projected and also the expansion of new languages and forms. Included in this would be sign language as well.

Majoring in linguistics means that you will learn about many aspects of human language, including sounds (phonetics, phonology), words (morphology), sentences (syntax), and meaning (semantics). It can involve looking at how languages change over time (historical linguistics); how language varies from situation to situation, group to group, and place to place (sociolinguistics, dialectology); how people use language in context (pragmatics, discourse analysis); how to model aspects of language (computational linguistics); how people acquire or learn language (language acquisition); and how people process language (psycholinguistics, experimental linguistics).

There are a few subcategories for linguists- (those who study and explore language)

Theoretical linguistics is the most general discipline of this field. People involved in this area basically examine how languages work.

Historical linguistics looks at the development of languages and how languages got to be the way they are today.

Sociolinguistics focuses on language and how it influences and is affected by the structures of societies.

Psycholinguists are people who study how language is implemented in the brain. Occasionally, psycholinguists may work for advertising firms, using their knowledge of language to write texts for various kinds of ads or for hospitals, helping patients who have language disorders.

Applied linguists use their knowledge of the mechanics of language to teach and translate foreign languages. Applied linguistics specialists may contract their services as translators, either for person-to-person translation or for translating literature.

Consider also, linguistic majors can work with a number of areas, all very similar to the career fields of a modern foreign language graduate. One area not mentioned however is speech pathology. Although post graduate work will be needed, many students who have an interest in speech pathology may start with a major in linguistics.

 If you have any interest in languages, foreign or silent; verbal or non verbal, feel free to check the bottom links out! :) 

¡Adiós!

For additional resources: 

http://www.lsadc.org/info/pdf_files/Whymajor.pdf

 http://www.oakland.edu/linguistics