I'm a firm believer in following your passion. More importantly, I think a liberal arts degree is a great way to get started on the rest of your career!   Contrary to popular thought, college is not "trade school." It's a place to learn about the world, about yourself, and to dicover your potential.  A full college experience should enhance your total being as a well-rounded, educated, individual.  Learning about different types of things helps you discover your strengths and to  find out what the world has to offer.  If you doubt this, consider the most recent "Apprentice" show on television. The educated team did much better on average because they were not only smart, but could draw from their educational experiences to cope with situations the "street smart" group could not.

That being said, the world is an increasingly competitive place. Obviously you feel the pressure to be successful. In today's culture, that translates into making money.  But it's also important to be able to get up in the morning and go to a job you like.  If you want to be a teacher, know that the world needs you--very, very much! You will help shape the minds of the next generation (or several generations) of children who can (and will) make this world a better place for all of us.  Teachers also get unique benefits, such as summer months off and, occasionally,  time off for sabbaticals.  If this is a lifestyle that appeals to you, your days will be filled with joy--and you won't starve!

However, if you want to teach you'll probably want to follow your undergraduate degree with advanced studies where you can specialize, further.  Diverse work experience will help make you more competitive, no matter what field you choose. Consider volunteering, or interning where your history degree will be appreciated (e.g. museums, foundations, non-profits, government).  This will help also help you set up a strong network when you're ready to job hunt.  If you're good at writing, try to get some articles published on a topics of interest to you.  Get leadership skills by particpating in the history club and other student activities.   Start making contacts others already working in your field.  One way to find these people is through your school's alumni office.   Once you have contacts, ask them for a few minutes of their time to learn about what they do, and how they got their jobs.  Many will be flattered to help you. You might even find your first job as a college graduate through their "grapevine." 

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There is nothing wrong with studying history!  History will show you how the past can influence the present and the future.  I'm sure you've heard that old saying:  "Those who don't learn from the past are bound to repeat mistakes!"   There are good reasons why those who study history are great leaders. You can be one, too! 

Even if you do love history, your undergraduate degree is probably going to be just  a stepping stone to other things you'll pursue in your life.  Few people actually end up working their entire lives in a field that was their major in college.  You may find that you love history, but that you have other passions as well.  Regardless, it's best to be prepared for the realities of the working world. I suggest that you get in touch with your college advisor and let him or her know your concerns about your future.  Develop related skills to your history major.  An obvious choice is to take education classes. Political Science is another possibility, or perhaps journalism, or library science  or even computer courses (just to name a few). 

I would also urge you to take at least a few classes in other areas you find interesting (eg. philosophy, religion, the arts) and some you might not think you'll like, including business.  You really never know what you may find when you open yourself up to new possibilities!  Balance the courses you must take and those you like, with some skill-oriented courses  (E.g. computer certification), so you have a variety of experiences and skills to take away from college and into the working world.

Most of all, keep your mind open to the possibilities around you and enjoy your college experience!  Learning new thinks, exposing yourself to new ideas, and new people --that's what makes a well rounded, educated person!  The most important qualities employers want are enthusiasm, intelligence, and education.  Prepare now, and you'll be more than able to compete!

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