Dear Stephen,

I am an English major at NIT. Last semester, I had the opportunity to work as an intern at the Ningbo Daily News Agency, one of the city’s largest media agencies. Although I learned a lot from this experience, I was also a bit disappointed. The workplace environment was more competitive than I expected, and I felt that what I had learned in school wasn’t really enough to ensure my success as a future employee. Should I consider changing my major? Maybe English is not going to give me the competitive advantage I’ll need when I graduate. Anyway, I’m a bit confused and would appreciate your advice. I look forward to your reply.

Best regards,

Zhao Ningning

Dear Ningning,

One’s first experience of working in a business environment is always overwhelming, and so your reaction is quite normal. It is what follows this reaction that determines whether or not you will be successful in the long run. Frankly, it sounds like you are still a bit naïve about what life is like in “the real world.” Yes, it’s very competitive out there. Yes, compared to many of the company employees, you were relatively useless as an intern. But what did you expect? Did you think that everyone at the Ningbo Daily would gather around you to praise your excellent English skills and charming personality? Grow up!

The true purpose of a university education is to teach you how to learn, and majoring in English is a smart choice these days when it comes to finding a good job. You must face the inevitable shocks and disappointments resolutely and with determination. Focus on the business at hand rather than on yourself. In this way, you will be able to quickly adapt and find your place in any work environment. Perhaps, you’ll even come to love your future occupation and discover that you are after all quite the ideal employee! Good luck!

Sincerely,

Stephen