I chose to major in English at Davidson first and foremost because I was inspired by the study of literature and writing. Also, since I really wanted to be an explorer when I grew up but wasn't sure how I could monetize that aspiration, I asked myself: What is the underlying skill required for pretty much any job I might pursue after graduation? The answer hit me almost immediately: to be able to communicate effectively. Then a secondary response entered my brain: to be able to analyze things--people, situations, problems--well.

What college major refines your communication and analytical skills at the same time? ENGLISH!

I ended up using this logic in a business interview at one of the top global consulting firms -- and they hired me. I spent five years at the firm and am now off on a different adventure altogether. My view is you have to train and learn new skills at the beginning of any profession. Why not equip yourself while at Davidson with the universal tools of strong communication and analytics, which you can then apply to wherever you decide to sail your ship? (And, in the process, you get to traverse some inspiring literary waters.)