In schools, STEM related courses are considered the classes that will “get you far” or “plant the seed for future careers.” These classes are considered the symbol of high intelligence, but so are, although not as popularly, English classes. English helps you in the future just as much as STEM will, if not more. It is the basis for everyday life.

Excelling in English isn’t just being able to read a book or write a poem; it’s being able to do things like order food and read the fine print as a kid, college student, or adult with a 9-5 job.

“Being adept in English makes you good at reading, and reading is important to help you get an understanding of the world and its perspectives,” says NHS English teacher, Maura White. “Every page gives you more insight.”

Even within careers based on science, English still plays a part.

“If you’re really good at writing, that can transfer into an Ag class for documenting things in labs,” says White. “Every career will have to include a form of English like grammar or reading comprehension.”

For many students, English is vital for what they wish to do when they receive that diploma.

“It will help me to be more creative in my future and understand the world better,” says freshman Sophie Mehegan. “For my future career, it will help me retain information and be able to fill out documents and everything it takes to work a real job, even if it’s just corporate.”

Good skills in grammar, reading, and literature will always have an impact on your life whether that’s a simple everyday task or an important project for work. People always need to know how to read, but not everyone needs to know the Pythagorean Theorem.

“Good writing skills really help you get your point across into a perspective that is accessible to everyone else,” says White. “English helps people every day and no one even realizes it!”