As the dean of humanities in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Arizona State University, Jeffrey Cohen understands the value of humanities training and how it can benefit students in various career paths. In a recent interview with ASU News, Cohen shared his insights on the importance of humanities education and how it can prepare students for success in a rapidly changing job market.
Cohen emphasized that a humanities degree provides students with a wide range of skills that are essential for navigating the complexities of today’s workforce. While some students may believe that a specific degree guarantees a job, Cohen stressed the importance of having a broad training that equips individuals to adapt to different career opportunities. He highlighted the example of the growing field of artificial intelligence, where humanities majors have found success due to their strong foundation in language and interdisciplinary training.
One key aspect of humanities education that Cohen emphasized is the development of essential skills such as writing, presentation, critical thinking, and collaboration. These skills are not only valuable in traditional humanities fields but also in a wide range of industries, including medicine, technology, and business. Cohen pointed out that the ability to tell a compelling story, think creatively, and connect with others are all attributes that can lead to success in various career paths.
Cohen also shared examples of former humanities students who have excelled in their careers, such as Phillip Pipkins, a first-generation student who found success in venture capitalism through his training in film and media studies. Another example is Amanda Ventura Zink, an English major who is now a vice president at Waymo, showcasing how humanities training can lead to diverse and rewarding career opportunities.
In the medical field, Cohen highlighted the importance of humanities training for future doctors who will also be engineers. The ability to connect with patients and understand different cultures is a crucial skill that can enhance the quality of healthcare delivery. Additionally, studying humanities allows individuals to broaden their perspectives and engage with diverse perspectives, ultimately leading to a more well-rounded and empathetic approach to patient care.
Despite the perception that humanities degrees may not be as valuable as they once were, Cohen emphasized the timeless relevance of humanities education in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and empathy. He highlighted the importance of world-building and imagining a more just and inclusive society, emphasizing the role of humanities in shaping a better future for all.
Looking ahead to the new academic year, Cohen shared exciting developments in humanities studies at ASU, including new programs in culture, technology, environment, global citizenship, narrative studies, sports society, and certificates in Holocaust and genocide studies and public history. These new offerings reflect ASU’s commitment to providing students with diverse learning opportunities that promote critical thinking, cultural understanding, and social awareness.
In conclusion, Cohen emphasized that humanities training is valuable for all students, regardless of their chosen field of study. By engaging with humanities courses, students can develop essential skills, gain a deeper understanding of the world, and cultivate a sense of community and lifelong learning. Ultimately, humanities education plays a vital role in shaping well-rounded individuals who are prepared to succeed in a rapidly changing and interconnected world.