Your friend's statement is quite extreme and reflects a strong bias toward hard sciences. It's essential to recognize that people have different perspectives and experiences, and their opinions may be influenced by various factors, including their field of study, personal beliefs, and individual experiences.
While some people believe that pursuing hard sciences offers more practical and tangible career opportunities, others argue that there is value in pursuing a wide range of fields, including humanities, social sciences, arts, and more. Many successful individuals have achieved fulfilling and successful careers in fields outside of hard sciences.
Here are a few points to consider:
Diverse Opportunities: Different fields offer various career paths and opportunities. While hard sciences can lead to specific technical roles, other fields can provide opportunities in areas such as business, arts, communication, social work, education, and more.
Personal Interests and Passions: Choosing a field of study based on personal interests and passions can lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable career, regardless of the specific discipline.
Skills and Transferability: Many skills acquired in non-STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, such as critical thinking, communication, creativity, and problem-solving, are transferable and valued in a wide range of industries.
Changing Job Market: The job market evolves over time, and the demand for various skills and professions fluctuates. What might be considered more valuable today may not be the same in the future.
Interdisciplinary Work: Many real-world challenges require interdisciplinary approaches. Collaboration between individuals with diverse expertise often leads to innovative and effective solutions.
Ultimately, the choice of what to study in college should be based on an individual's interests, aptitudes, and long-term goals. It's essential to conduct research, seek advice from multiple sources, and consider one's personal values and ambitions before making a decision.
Every field has its merits and can offer a fulfilling and meaningful career path. It's crucial to find the right fit for one's unique abilities and aspirations, rather than subscribing to one-size-fits-all notions of success.