Language as a Major?

My sister started college in the late 50's as a language major. Two years later, she looked over the job opportunities and switched to math. In 1962, she was graduated with BS in math and was recruited by the then Douglas Aircraft Corp.

Maybe things have change since then, but you should look ahead and see what that education will do for you.

I know, I know. That's what you're doing right now.

I considered it for a while, but decided against in favor of being a chemistry and biology double major. However, I did take Mandarin as a minor and practicing the languages I know is still a big hobby of mine.

Mainly my academic interests grew elsewhere, but I also suspected a major in a language wouldn't be very profitable. The market didn't seem big enough unless I wanted to be a teacher or professor of the language. If you're looking for a job in government or business, I think those people are looking for law or business degrees along with an ability to speak the language.

You can teach yourself a language -- I never took a German class in my life and I made a 5 on the AP test in high school. You can also do what I did and take one as a minor (or a second major).

Also, once you find out in what field you want to work as a language specialist, explore some interesting new university programs. For instance, if you want to get a job traveling overseas as a business or government representative, consider a program like the University of Kentucky's Foreign Language and International Economics.

Thank you both for all the advice.

What I was considering doing was majoring in language and then also getting teaching certification. That way I could work in government or some such thing until I settled down [husband, kids, mortgage.. the whole shabang] and then take a teaching job from then on.
I just don't want to be a housewife, I suppose. I would go stir-crazy.