We each have our own special talents that have been developed over time and enhanced through experience. Frequently we hear liberal arts majors lament they have had a great education but they have not been trained to do anything. This is not true! A liberal arts education provides the critical competencies which are in the greatest demand in today's job market. They are:

• Communication Skills
  Listening, writing or speaking. As a result of their academic work, Sarah Lawrence students are recognized for their strong writing, speaking and research skills, which give them an edge over the competition.
• Problem-Solving or Critical-Thinking Skills
  Analytical thinking, thinking abstractly, identifying several solutions to the same problem.
• Human Relations Skills
  Advising, helping, cooperating and teaching
• Organizational Skills
  Assessing needs, planning, coordinating, arranging, delegating
• Research Skills
  Searching computerized databases and published reference materials, identifying themes, investigating problems, analyzing data

We also discover and develop skills on the job that we take with us. Studies show we work best at what we enjoy. Knowing yourself, what you like doing and what you can do well are key to shaping your life's work. Any job decision should be based on the answer to the question, "Is this job likely to be a good match for my talents and one in which I'll be able to grow and enjoy myself?" A career built on talent and skills is a career that promises greater satisfaction.