Becoming a philology expert is one of the many careers you can choose to pursue as a student. Basically, philology is the study of languages in a historical, oral, and written context. Many universities in the US offer this program to its students. But how do you establish if it is the right course for you?
With philology, the question isn’t, “how to become a linguist?” It is, “Why do I want to become a Linguist?” This excerpt will focus on the pros and cons of studying linguistics for students who
study in the USA. Let’s jump straight into it, shall we?
Benefits of Studying a Philology Course in College
Human language is one of the most complex forms of communication, and a lot has been done to try to understand it further. By choosing to study linguistics, you not only help unravel this phenomenon but also open yourself to a lot of career opportunities. Philology is a wide program with diverse career opportunities. It is a tool by which we understand how humans communicate.
Studying philology can be beneficial in a number of ways which include but not limited to the ones listed below.
1. Learning about history of different languages
As humans, we are always trying to unravel new meanings and new truths about ourselves, including our origin. With basic knowledge in phonology, you have the opportunity to follow through the development of language. This gives you a chance to appreciate the advancements that have been made and understand the changes along the way.
It gives you a deeper understanding as to why people from different locations speak with different ascents. Speech and oral communication is a tool that connects people around the world, and understanding how it came to be is simply amazing.
2. Opens doors to many career paths
Philology is one of the few courses that have many career avenues for you. With a linguistics degree, you can work in psychology, sociology, management, and human resource departments.
This field of study gives you the opportunity to work as a high-level writer in the assignment writing service, getting decent money. Online assignment service websites pay good money to high-level writers with experience and qualifications. Teaching, editorial, and publishing careers are also suitable for a linguistic scholar.
3. Improving communication skills
Sometimes you might want to drive a particular point across, but you feel that you aren’t doing it right. This is a common feeling among many people I included. Learning philology plays a crucial role in helping you communicate in a more effective way.
The basic aspects taught in philology helps linguistic students improve their communication abilities. These elements can be used in a custom conversation with a peer, official communication, and in writing. It influences your choice of words for different situations and circumstances.
4. Improving analytical and critical thinking skills
Philology deals with analyzing large sets of information. As a philology student, you get to analyze languages and accents from different parts of the world. With such skills, you can tell where someone is from even without asking them.
As a professional linguist, you get to understand ascents and slang from different parts of the globe. This skill can get you a career as a forensic expert, where you analyze people talking and make a conclusion as to their origin. Forensic services are very important in the criminal department, and they are always on demand.
5. Understanding and appreciating cultural diversity
Looking for a fun reason as to why study linguistics in college? It can be used as a tool to enhance national cohesion by helping people understand and appreciate different cultures. As a linguistics expert, you are exposed to different cultures from different parts of the world. Understanding the difference helps you appreciate other people and races.
On the other hand, there are some few shortcomings that are associated with studying linguistics in college. Below is a list of why you might consider before choosing linguistics as your major.
1. It is dependent on other courses
With a major in linguistics, you might struggle to get a job since you may lack the relevant skills needed. The only job you can get easily with such a course is teaching. However, coupling it with a major in another technical or business course gives you the much-needed relevance in the job market.
In as much as there are many career opportunities with this course, it acts more like an added advantage to other majors. You can be a lawyer, a manager, or even an accountant with linguistic knowledge. However, it is not as cheap as some people perceive it to be.
2. It cannot be forced
Studying philology has to be more about passion than career goals. It is not one of the courses that you force yourself to do because opportunities will always come knocking at your door. Passion will drive you towards further exploration into the subject, making it more interesting.
Many hypotheses in the linguistics field remain unanswered up to date. Only a passionate student will feel the urge to try to answer them. This program doesn’t promise you a great career, but with passion, you can become great.
Conclusion
Philology is not one of the best courses to do, but it is important to learn it anyway. It has a lot to teach and make us humans understand how we communicate. As a career path, many novelists and writers have in one way or another had to study philology. If you are still in doubts, there are many materials and articles online that can help you understand philology and linguistics.
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