I'm taking non-degree courses next semester rather than going straight to MA because

• I need to learn the nuances of reading and writing in art studies as compared to the science courses I've taken before.
• I need to gather resources to strengthen my application for MA, including more volunteer work and personal teaching from those already within the field

It's hard to explain these things to them because

• They think I need to become employable ASAP through MA
• They seem to think MA is all a matter of enrolling into it