Technical core subjects, careers, and annoying maths problems

By Kat


There's always that one teacher who gives you work one or two years ahead of where you're supposed to be working. And often, this is a good thing, because in the long run, you'll be better off and have taken quite a few large steps ahead of all those you are competing with. But in the moment, these situations are a-g-o-n-i-s-i-n-g.
I'll admit, circular functions do get easier when you get the hang of it. But when you don't...

I've spent the last few hours machete-ing my way through 3 chapters of this stuff.
Anyway, this brings me to the topic of the day- core subjects. Maths and science are subjects that are heavily valued by schools, and it really shows. This is also reflected in the workplace, where the majority of jobs that society considers of the 'highest value' are those related with technical work involving mathematical or scientific skills. But often, this can be a large hindrance, especially when one considers that some people can invest their heart and soul into a profession that they believe is truly where their aspirations lie, but be pushed into a job they aren't interested in, whether it is by their parents or by their own need to earn money over real interest. On the other hand, they can remain without the attention to their work that they deserve. This leads to a society that 'does its job' but never dares to go beyond that.
Being an arts and humanities person myself, I am all too aware of how infuriating it is to find interesting subjects or careers that others frown upon in society. It's strange, how the 'core subject' system in schools work, because in truth, nowadays culture and creativity is more important than ever. It is important to foster a generation of open-minded, logical yet creative children, who can 'complete the task' as technical careers request and have requested since the industrial age, as well as 'think outside the box', and feel passionate enough about something to bring their own flair and unique ideas to it, to expand their knowledge and foster their ability to innovate.
Of course, some children really do enjoy technical subjects like maths and science, and this is great- but what we need is a variety in our society, a will for talented students to go into currently underestimated professions and thrive, and a leveling of the playing field in which we give students opportunity.
It it vital that we change our mindset- in the 21st century, there are many more professions opening up, and more opportunities that are both valuable and not labelled with the stereotypical set of subjects. We will truly reach a quality level of national and international employment when the system itself is changed- when money and skill are synonymous.