UC Santa Cruz reported on Mar. 12 that its humanities graduates are finding success across a wide range of industries, from technology and media to nonprofit work and entrepreneurship. The university said these alumni use skills such as analysis, synthesis, collaboration, writing, listening, and adaptability—abilities developed through their humanities education.
The report underscores the value of humanities training in today’s job market. According to a recent job outlook survey cited by the university, employers seek candidates with strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork skills, and excellent written communication—qualities that are central to humanities programs.
Several alumni shared how their studies at UC Santa Cruz prepared them for varied roles. Robert Alverson, who graduated with a history degree in 2009 and now works as a test engineer at Pyka, said: “While a BA in history is an unlikely starting point for where I’ve ended up, the core values of inquiry, challenging assumptions, and supporting your arguments with evidence is a good place to come from for many roles.” He added that his ability to rapidly absorb and synthesize information was fostered by regularly exploring new topics during his studies.
Katie Nealon (literature/creative writing, 2009) described how her writing background led her first into digital marketing before she became owner of Folding Bones Press. “I did learn through extensive job hunting that networking was essential, and my communication expertise aided in that,” Nealon said.
Dillon Auyoung (linguistics, 1990), now head of social responsibility at Comcast California, credited his education for shaping his career: “My humanities education — especially studying linguistics — gave me a foundation that has shaped every chapter of my career.”
Other graduates highlighted include Pierre Bienaimé (literature, 2010), now an audio producer at The Wall Street Journal; he said literature classes taught him to examine conventions and context—a skill he uses daily in journalism. Nazeerah Rashad (critical race and ethnic studies; global and community health), who directs children’s theater productions for PlayCV while still a student, said: “I don’t think I would be nearly as prepared to search for work after graduation if I wasn’t a student of the Humanities Division.”
The university’s report suggests that foundational skills gained through the humanities remain relevant even as industries change. Graduates say these abilities help them adapt to new challenges throughout their careers.
