Psych major w/ hist minor or just Hist?

[Wish2Fly]

What do you guys think would serve me better for flying and for a back up to flying, a psychology major with a history minor, or just a straight history major? Or does it even matter? I already have enough units in history to get a minor there, but i don't want to get trapped either teaching or writing term papers for the rest of my days if the flying idea doesn't work (for medical reasons or otherwise, who knows what). Any input would be greatly appreciated. thank you for your time.

-Steve

 

[Singlecoil]

For airline jobs, it shouldn't matter at all, but does it? I was a psych major and for a while wondered if that was a factor in preventing my phone from ringing. I have heard from some friends who were in positions to review resumes for non-aviation related companies who said the psych major was a red flag. I'm sure you know of some students in your classes who are drawn to it for free therapy or to attempt to figure their lives out.
If you are being evaluated by someone with an economics degree and a closed mind, it may be difficult for them to get past some stereotypes like that.
My phone finally did ring, but my 2 cents is get the history degree.

 

[Andy Neill]

The best move I made was to MARRY a psychologist. Therapy might not be cheap but it is readily available.

 

[Wish2Fly]

I thought it might...

I had the notion that it might do me more good in the cockpit to know the subtlies of sensation/perception or the way people react to hairy situations from a CRM standpoint more than knowing when Andrew Jackson was elected (which can be a hoot when you're watching Jeopardy, I gotta admit).

-Steve

 

[Singlecoil]

You're right, Wish2fly, the human factors part of this business is very interesting. If that also interests you, then you certainly won't be doing yourself a disservice by majoring in psych. I don't regret it at all. Most airlines now have Critical Incident Response Teams, which is a peer driven program designed to help fellow employees deal with stressful situations and give them tools to prevent post-traumatic stress disorder. Particularly useful afer accidents and incidents. It can be very hard work for the volunteers depending on the severity of the situation, but also very rewarding. A great way to put a psych background to work in aviation.

 

[bobbysamd]

Psych major

Maybe knowing about classical and operant conditioning would be valuable to flying. No kidding! Here's a link to operant conditioning.

I would still lobby for an Aeronautical Science major. It really is much more than glorified ground school. Having said that, study something that you like and/or something in which you're interested. Nothing wrong at all with majoring in History or Poli Sci. El Ed. At the very least you can teach with it. Of course, the big picture is getting the B.A. or B.S.

Good luck with whatever you decide.