What Happens Next in 6 Minutes

Does Your College Major Matter?

Jul 26, 2025
In this discussion, Corey Moss-Pech, a Sociology Professor at Florida State and author of Major Trade-Offs, explores the often-overlooked impacts of college majors on career success. He challenges the stigma against liberal arts by showcasing their value in fostering critical skills. The conversation delves into how internships shape career paths, stressing the need for meaningful experiences over mere resume entries. Corey also shares inspiring stories of individuals who followed their passions, illustrating the diverse career trajectories that emerge from college choices.
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INSIGHT

Major Impact: Internships and Culture

  • College majors differ less in skills than expected but vary greatly in labor market outcomes.
  • Access to internships and cultural valuation of majors shape salary and job prospects.
INSIGHT

Sociology Explains Career Outcomes

  • Social processes like parental support and class background influence career success.
  • Sociology reveals nuanced reasons behind differing outcomes for students with similar backgrounds.
ADVICE

Enhance Internships with Projects

  • Internship programs should provide clear hiring criteria and assign meaningful projects.
  • Having deliverables during internships increases student satisfaction and engagement.
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