18 answers
Kang
Student
Fremont, California
5
Questions
Asked
707 views
How did you find a career that you love or passionate about?
As a student, I want to work in a career I enjoy but also one that I can make a good living out of.
18 answers
Andrea Leszczynski MPA, CCSP
Talent Development and Career Coaching
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Andrea’s Answer
Hi Kang!
Self-awareness is the first step in exploring careers and/or employment. You need to know what you are good at, what you like to do, and what types of fields interest you. I also like to ask myself - "what would I never get bored of?"
There are various different ways you can go about that. Self-assessment is one way, where you write down all your soft skills and technical skills, identify your personality traits and think about what your purpose is. Some people want to make a difference, others want to invent something beneficial for people, others want to try their hand at entrepreneurship. You may also want to think about what kinds of environments would you be happy working in. Are you an indoor type of person or prefer being outdoors mostly? Do you prefer working with people or do you prefer working independently?
I also recommend researching the labor market for different fields of interest. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has a very useful directory of occupations called the Occupational Outlook Handbook that gives information about various fields, down to the occupations in those fields.
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
Career One Stop is another good site that helps people research careers and take personal assessments. https://www.careeronestop.org/
Next, I recommend researching companies that you'd be interested in working for. What are they about? What roles do they offer? Are there any that interest you? Informational interviews with people who work at these companies can give you great insight to what it's like to work there or they can describe their role in better detail. LinkedIn is a great place for that!
If you are attending college - definitely check out their career services department. They can help you look into different programs, work experiences/internships to give you a sense of what path you'd like to take.
Hope this helps!
All the best,
Andrea
Self-awareness is the first step in exploring careers and/or employment. You need to know what you are good at, what you like to do, and what types of fields interest you. I also like to ask myself - "what would I never get bored of?"
There are various different ways you can go about that. Self-assessment is one way, where you write down all your soft skills and technical skills, identify your personality traits and think about what your purpose is. Some people want to make a difference, others want to invent something beneficial for people, others want to try their hand at entrepreneurship. You may also want to think about what kinds of environments would you be happy working in. Are you an indoor type of person or prefer being outdoors mostly? Do you prefer working with people or do you prefer working independently?
I also recommend researching the labor market for different fields of interest. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has a very useful directory of occupations called the Occupational Outlook Handbook that gives information about various fields, down to the occupations in those fields.
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
Career One Stop is another good site that helps people research careers and take personal assessments. https://www.careeronestop.org/
Next, I recommend researching companies that you'd be interested in working for. What are they about? What roles do they offer? Are there any that interest you? Informational interviews with people who work at these companies can give you great insight to what it's like to work there or they can describe their role in better detail. LinkedIn is a great place for that!
If you are attending college - definitely check out their career services department. They can help you look into different programs, work experiences/internships to give you a sense of what path you'd like to take.
Hope this helps!
All the best,
Andrea
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Kang
Elizabeth Lambert
Dentist Biology BS, DDS
55
Answers
Burton, Ohio
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
This is a great question because I wish I had the insight to ask it when I was younger. It's good that you realize how important it is to love your career. You'll possibly be spending more time at work and with the people at work than you will be spending with friends and family.
Here are few questions to ask yourself:
1. What are my hobbies
2. Do I like working with people or do you like being alone or a combination of both?
3. What subjects in school are my favorite?
4. Are you creative or analytical or a little bit of both?
5. Is there anything that you are passionate about already? This could be a hobby, religion or politics or anything else.
6 . Where do you want to live? How much free time will you need? How important is family?
After answering all these questions I would start with looking at careers that utilize your academic strengths in school. You could ask another question on Career Village to get a list of careers that are possible. Then I would narrow down that list based upon if they fill the other needs that you've come up with based upon the previous questions. Hope this helps and hope to help with your future questions as well.
Here are few questions to ask yourself:
1. What are my hobbies
2. Do I like working with people or do you like being alone or a combination of both?
3. What subjects in school are my favorite?
4. Are you creative or analytical or a little bit of both?
5. Is there anything that you are passionate about already? This could be a hobby, religion or politics or anything else.
6 . Where do you want to live? How much free time will you need? How important is family?
After answering all these questions I would start with looking at careers that utilize your academic strengths in school. You could ask another question on Career Village to get a list of careers that are possible. Then I would narrow down that list based upon if they fill the other needs that you've come up with based upon the previous questions. Hope this helps and hope to help with your future questions as well.
Thank you so much!
Kang
Nicole Nelson
Head of Sales and Operations
29
Answers
American Fork, Utah
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
What get you excited to get out of the bed in the morning? What is a topic that you can talk about for hours? What subjects do you thrive in and can't get enough of?
What is your why? What bring your purpose and drives you to work hard?
I know these are all huge questions. But if you can find what motivates you the rest will fall into place and you will be a lot happier in your job.
What is your why? What bring your purpose and drives you to work hard?
I know these are all huge questions. But if you can find what motivates you the rest will fall into place and you will be a lot happier in your job.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Kang
Gloria Ortiz
Instructional Designer
842
Answers
Irving, Texas
Updated
Gloria’s Answer
Hi Kang,
Looking back at my life, I wish that I had taken a lot of the advice that you have been given. I would say that you think about what you love to do - what you would do whether or not you were paid to do it. I have been a writer since I learned how to write. Originally I had decided to be a journalism student in high school and it was fun. I did go to college where I learned that Journalism is a very competitive program and I am not as competitive as I needed to be. After that, I thought that I would not be able to write for a living. I didn't feel made to be a journalist or a published author. What I didn't know is that verbal and written communication skills are in high demand in fields like Education and Marketing.
So what does my experience mean for you? Two things. 1 - Think about what you would do even if you did not get paid to do it. I write all the time, no matter what. It is my favorite creative outlet. If I do not write in my personal life, I don't feel good. Other things that I love are travelling, learning languages, volunteering to help people. These may also be called hobbies for me. 2 - Look for and ask about types of jobs or careers that use the areas where you have natural skills or interest. I have found that doing what you love makes the hard times better in a job.
Gloria
Looking back at my life, I wish that I had taken a lot of the advice that you have been given. I would say that you think about what you love to do - what you would do whether or not you were paid to do it. I have been a writer since I learned how to write. Originally I had decided to be a journalism student in high school and it was fun. I did go to college where I learned that Journalism is a very competitive program and I am not as competitive as I needed to be. After that, I thought that I would not be able to write for a living. I didn't feel made to be a journalist or a published author. What I didn't know is that verbal and written communication skills are in high demand in fields like Education and Marketing.
So what does my experience mean for you? Two things. 1 - Think about what you would do even if you did not get paid to do it. I write all the time, no matter what. It is my favorite creative outlet. If I do not write in my personal life, I don't feel good. Other things that I love are travelling, learning languages, volunteering to help people. These may also be called hobbies for me. 2 - Look for and ask about types of jobs or careers that use the areas where you have natural skills or interest. I have found that doing what you love makes the hard times better in a job.
Gloria
Gloria, thank you!
Kang
Holly S.
Experience Consultant
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Holly’s Answer
Hi Kang!
You have a number of great suggestions given, and I would also like to add that you should take advantage of any career nights or career fairs that your school may be offering. These can be great opportunities to ask questions to real professionals about their careers. Career fairs or career nights offer a range of professionals as well, so you can really learn about a number of different paths and see if any interest you! I would ask your guidance counselor, mentor, or teachers if your school offers opportunities like this and definitely sign up!
You have a number of great suggestions given, and I would also like to add that you should take advantage of any career nights or career fairs that your school may be offering. These can be great opportunities to ask questions to real professionals about their careers. Career fairs or career nights offer a range of professionals as well, so you can really learn about a number of different paths and see if any interest you! I would ask your guidance counselor, mentor, or teachers if your school offers opportunities like this and definitely sign up!
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Kang
Diana Moreno Fernandez
1
Answer
Belgium
Updated
Diana’s Answer
Finding a career within you love or passion should first start with your own passions. If you have a passion in technology find a similar area within your passion if that is programming or drone photography or mobility. If you enjoy what you do for work it no longer becomes work and your passion grows within this area.
If you don't know what your passion is, just try different things and see if any of those are suitable for you, if you can enjoy them somehow. Otherwise, keep trying till you find something you interested in and then follow that path and see where it leads you. Maybe on the way you will find out what you want to do.
And don't be afraid to make mistakes. Many of us have changes in their careers, being led by their curiosity, interests for fields and areas, that were not existing in the beginning of their work life.
If you don't know what your passion is, just try different things and see if any of those are suitable for you, if you can enjoy them somehow. Otherwise, keep trying till you find something you interested in and then follow that path and see where it leads you. Maybe on the way you will find out what you want to do.
And don't be afraid to make mistakes. Many of us have changes in their careers, being led by their curiosity, interests for fields and areas, that were not existing in the beginning of their work life.
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Kang
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
657
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
For me it came down to my Core Values. I know that if I did not have a position, that matched with my core values, then I would never be happy in that position. My Core Values were those firmly held beliefs that are the driving forces behind me and the decisions that I made in my life.
One core value that I held, which influenced my decision, on what positions to seek was Service to Others. I knew that I wanted to do something that would influence the lives of others in a positive way. This was the driving force which influenced me to go into public service, especially in the area of education and advising.
Other values, also influenced my choices, because I also value honesty, integrity, and transparency. All of these values were present in the positions that I have held throughout my career. These values are firm beliefs that I never compromise on in my life. I have been in positions, where the organization did not have or have similar core values to mine. Subsequently, as a result I did not last very long in those organizations. So, it was my core values, which were the guiding principles, that helped determine my decisions in the career paths I took.
One core value that I held, which influenced my decision, on what positions to seek was Service to Others. I knew that I wanted to do something that would influence the lives of others in a positive way. This was the driving force which influenced me to go into public service, especially in the area of education and advising.
Other values, also influenced my choices, because I also value honesty, integrity, and transparency. All of these values were present in the positions that I have held throughout my career. These values are firm beliefs that I never compromise on in my life. I have been in positions, where the organization did not have or have similar core values to mine. Subsequently, as a result I did not last very long in those organizations. So, it was my core values, which were the guiding principles, that helped determine my decisions in the career paths I took.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Kang
Bailey BSN, RN
Registered Nurse
57
Answers
Updated
Bailey’s Answer
I found mentors that recognized my strengths and encouraged my skills to blossom. I am currently a registered nurse because when I was a medical assistant, I worked for a nurse practitioner that saw my potential. She encouraged me to go back to school and I am forever grateful. Since then, I’ve met my husband and he has encouraged me to continue my dream toward becoming a physician. Working in the hospital has been great. I suggest looking to shadow different areas that you are interested in. Good luck!
That's great insight, thank you!
Kang
Aaron Seyler
Sales/Customer Operations
1
Answer
Belgrade, Serbia
Updated
Aaron’s Answer
The best advice we can give on how to find a thing that you’re passionate about is by trying different things, not being afraid to fail and learn because failure is just a part of the success.
You might find new passions as your experiences change and don’t be afraid to explore each one of them because you may find happiness in place you didn’t expect.
You might find new passions as your experiences change and don’t be afraid to explore each one of them because you may find happiness in place you didn’t expect.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Kang
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1552
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you are looking for a career that you have interest or you love to.
I would suggest you can consider approach below :
1. Think about your hobbies or interest on and identify any careers that relevant to these hobbies or interest
2. Choose the careers that you have interest on to explore further
3. Explore more these careers. Speak to someone who works in these careers (if you know any one).
4. Seek guidance from the career counsellor in school or your parents
5. Shortlist 1-2 careers to pursue. Find out he entry criteria of the relevant subject in the college.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
I would suggest you can consider approach below :
1. Think about your hobbies or interest on and identify any careers that relevant to these hobbies or interest
2. Choose the careers that you have interest on to explore further
3. Explore more these careers. Speak to someone who works in these careers (if you know any one).
4. Seek guidance from the career counsellor in school or your parents
5. Shortlist 1-2 careers to pursue. Find out he entry criteria of the relevant subject in the college.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Rebecca, thank you!
Kang
Aya Tanaka
Recruiter
12
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Aya’s Answer
What do you find yourself enjoying doing? Finding something that you enjoy as a job is hard, but it would be something that you naturally want to do and feel excited about it when you start your day. Don't feel pressured if you can't find something right away. Instead, you can always try out different tasks and you can get a better feel of what you enjoy and where your strong suits are.
Brad Gaskill
Under Armour, Inc., PLM, Apparel - Basketball Uniforms
23
Answers
Baltimore, Maryland
Updated
Brad’s Answer
Hi Kang,
It looks like you have received a lot of suggestions and advice in terms of finding a career you're passionate about. The first step might be to simply think about write things down that you like. Once you do that you can start looking to careers within those passions. I saw someone mention career fairs. This can be a great place to learn about opportunities available and establish connections with people in various industries. While broad but figuring out and knowing your "why" will go a long way in your pursuit of finding a career you are passionate about! Best of luck!
It looks like you have received a lot of suggestions and advice in terms of finding a career you're passionate about. The first step might be to simply think about write things down that you like. Once you do that you can start looking to careers within those passions. I saw someone mention career fairs. This can be a great place to learn about opportunities available and establish connections with people in various industries. While broad but figuring out and knowing your "why" will go a long way in your pursuit of finding a career you are passionate about! Best of luck!
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Kang
Chris Chenoweth
Senior Customer Success Manager
1
Answer
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Chris’s Answer
I found a career I love by starting in a job and industry that appealed to me and giving it a shot. It took taking a chance in one field to fine tune what I ultimately wanted. It takes making a step in a direction and seeing how you like it to decide your next step. I believe one step at a time is the way to move closer and closer to a career you love. Your first job may not be the dream job, but that is OK. I would advise to make the most of the experience and let it help shape that next step.
Chiranjib Mazumdar
IT Architect
34
Answers
Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Updated
Chiranjib’s Answer
Great question. Made me think quite a bit.
It is always best when your passion and profession meet. Unfortunately, for a great many people, that seldom happens.
I suggest trying out this questionnaire. I just tried it and was pleasantly surprised by how accurate the results were and how nicely they related to me.
https://www.princetonreview.com/quiz/career-quiz
It is always best when your passion and profession meet. Unfortunately, for a great many people, that seldom happens.
I suggest trying out this questionnaire. I just tried it and was pleasantly surprised by how accurate the results were and how nicely they related to me.
https://www.princetonreview.com/quiz/career-quiz
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Kang
Ver Ornido
Director
2
Answers
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
Ver’s Answer
I find that at times your career evolves, but there's one thing that I am sure of: there is no permanent job description, it evolves constantly and you can even redefine it if you see an opportunity to.
Loved reading this, thanks!
Kang
Swati Vutukuri
Engineer
1
Answer
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Swati’s Answer
It’s ok to switch career paths and try new things. It’s important to follow your heart and identify what makes you feel fulfilled. Try to align your passion, hobby, and skill set with a career path.
Find a mentor
Educate yourself about different industries
Seek out opportunities to learn
Identify your strengths
Identify your disinterests and weaknesses
Swati recommends the following next steps:
Andreja Babic
4
Answers
Belgrade, Serbia
Updated
Andreja’s Answer
If you really like to do something and are ready to devote your time to develop yourself, you can make money for a living no matter what you do.
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Kang
Ricardo Néia
3
Answers
Updated
Ricardo’s Answer
That’s a tricky question as your interests will also be developing throughout your life.
I’d say that the first thing is a self awareness review: what do you like and is it something you can make a living from? The second thing is if you are excellent at something that can make a great living from.
For younger generations, I’d strongly recommend reading a book called “The 100-year life”. It is a deep review of how society has changed over the last few decades and how it can change in the future to the point that you might have two or more careers: one to make a living and one to be fulfilled.
Don’t stay too focused on how things happened in the past as they are evolving faster and faster…
I’d say that the first thing is a self awareness review: what do you like and is it something you can make a living from? The second thing is if you are excellent at something that can make a great living from.
For younger generations, I’d strongly recommend reading a book called “The 100-year life”. It is a deep review of how society has changed over the last few decades and how it can change in the future to the point that you might have two or more careers: one to make a living and one to be fulfilled.
Don’t stay too focused on how things happened in the past as they are evolving faster and faster…
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