Find a Job You Really Want In
How 27 People Got Jobs Unrelated To Their College Majors
VP, Growth
Vice President of Marketing & Alliances
VP of eCommerce & Marketing
Content Strategist at YDOP
Director of Customer Engagement
CEO and Chief Strategist
Nursing Home Navigator Coach & Certified Career & Grief Intuitive Coach
CEO and Founder
VP of Marketing
Executive Chef, Managing Partner
Account Executive
Vice President of Sales & Marketing
Gym Owner and Entrepreneur
Founder and President
Animal Physical Therapist
Public Relations Director
CEO
Personal Coach
Senior PR Manager
Travel Writer
Managing Director
PR/Copywriter
SEO Specialist/Freelance Translator
Author-Writer-Producer
Marketing Executive
Marketing Analyst
Business Coach
Karen Gordon, 29
VP, Growth
Goodshuffle — Sociology
When I chose to major in sociology, I faced skepticism from others. It’s surprising how some fail to recognize the value of studying human behavior. My degree didn’t set me on a specific career path, but I knew it would serve me in my personal and professional life. I preferred a major that had practical applications over one that might lead to a career I could later abandon.
As the VP of Growth at a technology-driven event rental company, my background in sociology proves invaluable. My understanding of people enhances my marketing and sales strategies and helps me cultivate strong partnerships. Additionally, the writing and communication skills I honed through extensive academic writing contribute to my success today.
Jen Spencer, 39
Vice President of Marketing & Alliances
Allbound — BA in Secondary Education, Extended English
My degree in Secondary Education led me to a career as a high school English teacher. Fast forward 17 years, and I now lead marketing for a software company.
My career progression included:
- Teacher
- Education Coordinator at a non-profit theatre
- Public Relations Manager at the theatre
- Sales and Marketing Director at the theatre
- Sales and Marketing roles in B2B software
Every day, I apply my teaching skills in marketing and sales strategies, and I don’t miss the classroom because I still use those skills daily.
Vincent Nero
VP of eCommerce & Marketing
Successories — Film Production
I studied film production at Hampshire College. Graduating in 2009 during the recession, I chose to pivot from Hollywood dreams to a marketing associate role, producing product videos. I leveraged my skills from student films to transition into a marketing career.
People were surprised by my career shift, but I’m grateful for my success. Every major has transferable skills; for me, it was creativity, project planning, budgeting, and team management. When exploring careers outside your major, find those commonalities and build your confidence for future opportunities.
Brandon Schmidt, 32
Content Strategist at YDOP
YDOP — B.S. & M.S. in Bible
As a Content Strategist at YDOP, my degrees in Bible studies might not seem directly relevant. However, I spent nine years in non-profit organizations, including five as an ordained minister, which helped me transition into marketing.
My ministry experience developed my skills in research, writing, and communication. I also began blogging in college, enhancing my online writing skills, which were crucial in my current role.
Holly Wolf
Director of Customer Engagement
SOLO Laboratories — Business
I initially trained as an x-ray technologist but transitioned into marketing roles. I was chief marketing officer for a bank before becoming Director of Customer Engagement at SOLO Labs.
While I expected to work in radiology, limited job opportunities led me to the jewelry buying office and later a free-standing emergency center. This experience allowed me to advance into management and ultimately marketing.
Eric Elkins, 49
CEO and Chief Strategist
WideFoc.us Social Media — Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
I run a social media consulting agency in Denver — celebrating a decade in business soon. With degrees in biochemistry and molecular biology, many question the relevance of my education in my current field.
Though I only worked as a scientist briefly, I gained vital problem-solving skills and learned to assess scientific media, which enhance my work today.
Here’s my advice: Your major doesn’t need to define your career. Choose something you’re passionate about, as it will lead to greater success and personal fulfillment.
Lise Marie Chirico, 50
Nursing Home Navigator Coach
Nursing Homeology, Certified Career & Grief Intuitive Coach — Public Relations
As a nursing home navigator coach, I support caregivers. My background is in Public Relations, which is a significant shift from my current work.
After caregiving for my father, I pursued a fulfilling career outside the corporate world, and I love what I do. My advice: There are no “useless” fields of study. Follow your passion and make your dreams a reality.
I initially aimed for a career in politics, working at prestigious think tanks and in Congress. Disillusioned by the political landscape, I transitioned into business to make a direct impact.
My advice for students in broad fields: Ignore naysayers. Your path is unique, so pursue your passion. Often, what seems “useless” can apply to your future endeavors in ways you’ll discover along the way.
Christine Cummings
VP of Marketing
All Set — International Tourism Management
As the VP of Marketing at All Set, a Boston startup, my degree in International Tourism Management seems distant from my current responsibilities.
My career trajectory began at Europe’s largest tour operator, where my marketing department role laid the groundwork for my future. I strategically planned my next steps in marketing, which proved to be the best decision.
To those with narrow or broad majors: Pursue what excites you, even if it means fighting for your first job. Gain diverse experiences, as your major becomes less relevant over time and experience takes precedence.
Jenny Dorsey, 26
Executive Chef, Managing Partner
Jenny Dorsey Consulting, Wednesdays — Finance
Transitioning from a finance major and management consulting to a culinary career has been unexpected yet fulfilling. While I was initially accepted into Columbia’s MBA program, culinary school showed me my true passion.
I now run a successful culinary consulting firm and a popular NYC restaurant. Majors don’t dictate your future; follow your passion when it calls.
Heather Andrews, 39
Account Executive
DPR Group — Vocal Performance
Though I majored in vocal performance, my marketing and PR experience during college has led me to a successful career in the industry.
Angelo Giallombardo
Vice President of Sales & Marketing
Central Executive Search — Plant Biology
As a VP at an executive recruiting firm, my background in plant biology seems disconnected from my current role. Initially passionate about environmental sciences, my career took an unexpected turn after 9/11.
After struggling to find work, I ventured into executive recruiting, finding my niche in helping others navigate their careers. Sometimes, life leads you to unexpected opportunities.
Justin Singer, 37
Gym Owner and Entrepreneur
Mekanix — Computer Science
I earned my Computer Science degree but now run a gym and pursue various entrepreneurial ventures. Initially, many doubted my choice, but my experience now validates my career decisions.
Advice for those in “useless” majors: Seek mentorship and clarity in your goals. If uncertain, gain experience through internships or part-time work to help define your career path.
Keith Murray, 47
Founder and President
Integrity Senior Solutions Inc — Music Performance
With over 21 years in the insurance industry, I transitioned from a music performance major into a successful career. Initially hesitant about commissions, I discovered my passion for helping people.
For those feeling lost with specific degrees: Seek meaningful work while pursuing your passion. Build your skills and don’t lose sight of your dreams.
Sally Morgan
Animal Physical Therapist
Holistic Physical Therapy for Pets and People — Physical Therapy, Natural Science, English
As a holistic physical therapist for pets and people, my journey began with a self-designed major in natural science and communications. I initially aimed to be a writer but redirected my career into physical therapy.
My background in English has proven invaluable, providing critical thinking and communication skills applicable in my current work. Studying broadly can lead to unique career paths.
I currently manage Public Relations and Media Outreach, with a background in History. The path to my current role was unconventional, but it’s proven advantageous in creative fields.
My degree has never hindered my career progression; hands-on experience has been paramount. In today’s job market, however, relevant education remains essential.
Corey Blake, 30
CEO
MWI — International Culture Studies
Study what you’re passionate about, as it will lead to a fulfilling career. After my associate’s in general studies, I found my calling in international cultures, which led me to start a digital marketing agency.
Gary van Warmerdam
Personal Coach
Pathway To Happiness — Mechanical Engineering
As a personal coach focusing on happiness, my degree in Mechanical Engineering led me to unexpected paths. My journey into coaching began with a deep exploration of personal beliefs and mindfulness practices.
For incoming college students: Follow your interests, as many careers will emerge that don’t yet exist today.
Amanda Casela, 30
Senior PR Manager
LDN ROSE — Recording Arts
Despite studying Music Technology, I now work in PR, having transitioned into marketing after an internship at a major record label. My role evolved through hands-on experience and self-study.
Focus on what brings you joy and don’t limit yourself by your studies; if your interests shift, pursue them!
Leslie Price, 37
Travel Writer
My Adventure Bucket — Mortuary Science
After 13 years as a funeral director, I recently followed my dream of travel writing. It was an unexpected journey, but one that has brought me immense happiness.
My advice: Study what interests you, and don’t be afraid to explore new paths. Growth often means moving on, and that’s a beautiful journey.
Richard Scholes, 49
Managing Director
PARRS — Politics
I studied Politics before becoming Managing Director at PARRS. I pursued my passion while figuring out my career direction. Choose a major you enjoy; your skills will transfer later.
Kat Quinzel, 33
PR/Copywriter
Vintage Cash Cow — Theology
After studying Theology, my career took an unexpected turn into financial services. The skills I gained translate well into my current role in PR and copywriting.
Enjoy your studies and embrace the learning experience, even if your degree doesn’t directly lead to a job.
Matthew Massee, 28
SEO Specialist/Freelance Translator
The Advocates — Economics
With a degree in economics, I now work in marketing and translation. I believe the current educational system needs reform to focus on practical skills alongside academic study.
A broad degree fosters critical thinking, enabling adaptability in various career paths. Don’t underestimate its value.
Marilyn Anderson, 40+
Author-Writer-Producer — Biology, Physiology
With a Master’s in Biology, I briefly worked as a research scientist before pursuing a career in entertainment. The path was unconventional but led to fulfilling opportunities.
Stay open to change and follow your heart — you never know where it might lead you.
Laura Hall
Marketing Executive
Shiply — Music Performance
I studied music, which is often dismissed as ‘useless.’ However, the skills I gained are invaluable in my marketing career, highlighting the importance of transferable skills.
Always pursue your passions — art and creativity matter in any field!
Adam Rosa, 20
Marketing Analyst
Digital Authority Partners — English
My journey into marketing began unexpectedly while helping a friend with a focus group. Despite my English degree being deemed ‘useless,’ my skills quickly became valuable in my new role.
Focus on what you love; opportunities will arise as you develop your skills.
Matt Burkinshaw
Business Coach
Performance Growth Advisors — Law
After 15+ years in law, I transitioned into business coaching. This shift was part of my journey, emphasizing that no degree is ‘useless’ if it equips you with critical thinking and communication skills.
Focus on mastering these skills, as they are invaluable across all professions.
Author
David Luther was the Content Marketing Editor for the Zippia Advice blog. He developed partnerships with external reporting agencies in addition to generating original research and reporting for the Zippia Career Advice blog. David obtained his BA from UNC Chapel Hill.
