Three CEOs on why their unlikely majors were the best choice for careers in business

Three prominent CEOs have shared their perspectives on how their unconventional college majors have been advantageous in their careers within the business world. Stephanie Mehta, CEO and chief content officer of Mansueto Ventures, is an English major who believes the skills gained from studying literature—such as nuance, originality, and understanding diverse perspectives—are invaluable for navigating a leadership team.

Nikhil Deogun, CEO of the Americas at advisory firm Brunswick Group, had a dual major in English and economics, emphasizing that a liberal arts education teaches the ability to formulate arguments, question assumptions, and grasp the core of an issue—skills crucial for a CEO. David Risher, CEO of Lyft, studied comparative literature, which he sees as about uncovering the universal themes within literature, mirroring the universal appeal of successful businesses.

Despite a recent decline in humanities degrees, as highlighted in a 2023 New Yorker article, CEOs like Risher argue that an English or literature major equips individuals with critical thinking and creativity skills that remain irreplaceable, even in the face of advancing AI technology. Such skills are essential for asking the right questions, thinking independently, and developing a unique viewpoint—attributes that are timeless and highly sought after in the business realm.