Home economics for today

The title of the Learning page article " `Home Ec' Moves With the Times," Dec. 7, thrilled me. We professionals in home economics are battling an incorrect image, and national press coverage could do much to help us. Unfortunately, the article contrasts such "professional careers" as medicine and law with home economics as an "area of studies." It also points out that salaries are low, membership in the national organization is stagnating, and high school boys have to be talked into stitching and stirrin g.

The article might have included that our apparel design majors work with the latest computers, designing new styles and more efficient means of producing and ordering garments. Our textile designers combine space-age fibers with historic inspiration to tantalize the costume with quality at affordable prices. Our nutritionists research dietary problems among minority groups and recommend disease-preventing alternatives. Our interior-design students create plans to revitalize decaying downtown buildings an d improve local economies.

Consumer education in home economics explores the ways people can make wiser use of their money. Words are inadequate to summarize the counseling skills our family and child development graduates possess. The jobs home economics graduates fill continue to meet critical areas of concern in society. J. Lopez, San Marcos, Texas Dept. of Home Economics, Southwest Texas State U.

Letters are welcome. Only a selection can be published, subject to condensation, and none acknowledged. Please address them to "Readers Write," One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115.