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How do I know what I want as a career choice ?
Like I don’t know what to study
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8 answers
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Flo’s Answer
A profound question to ask Emily: Sometimes, it’s a journey, and over time, you learn and realize what career you truly want. You may not need to know everything you need to study for just yet, and that’s okay. Eventually, your experiences will guide you, either directly or indirectly.
You can start by asking yourself simple questions that may provide clues to what you ultimately will want as a career choice.
what you enjoy,
what you like,
what interest you,
what makes you smile,
what do you love,
what holds your focus,
what grabs your attention,
.. and follow the thread of those insights, one step at a time.
If you enjoy school, studying, and learning, consider careers that involve these aspects.
If family and friends make you smile, consider careers that focus on relationships.
If you love animals, consider careers that allow you to care for them.
You can start by asking yourself simple questions that may provide clues to what you ultimately will want as a career choice.
what you enjoy,
what you like,
what interest you,
what makes you smile,
what do you love,
what holds your focus,
what grabs your attention,
.. and follow the thread of those insights, one step at a time.
If you enjoy school, studying, and learning, consider careers that involve these aspects.
If family and friends make you smile, consider careers that focus on relationships.
If you love animals, consider careers that allow you to care for them.
![James Constantine Frangos’s Avatar](https://res.cloudinary.com/careervillage/image/upload/w_120,h_120,c_scale/v1694725334/179930.webp)
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Emily!
Understanding Career Choices: A Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing a career can be a daunting task, especially when you are unsure of your interests or strengths. Here’s a structured approach to help you clarify what you want as a career choice.
Step 1: Self-Assessment
Start by evaluating your interests, values, and skills. This self-assessment can be done through various methods:
Interest Inventories: Tools like the Holland Code (RIASEC) test can help identify your interests and suggest careers that align with them.
Skills Assessment: Reflect on what skills you possess or enjoy using. Consider both hard skills (technical abilities) and soft skills (communication, teamwork).
Values Clarification: Determine what is important to you in a job. This could include work-life balance, salary expectations, job security, or opportunities for advancement.
Step 2: Research Potential Careers
Once you have a better understanding of yourself, start researching potential careers that align with your findings:
Job Descriptions: Look at job postings on websites like LinkedIn or Indeed to understand the qualifications and responsibilities associated with different roles.
Industry Trends: Investigate which industries are growing and what jobs are in demand. Resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provide valuable insights into job outlooks and salary information.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in fields of interest. Conducting informational interviews can provide firsthand insights into daily responsibilities and career paths.
Step 3: Education and Training Requirements
After narrowing down potential careers, investigate the educational requirements for those roles:
Degree Programs: Identify if specific degrees or certifications are necessary for your chosen field. Websites such as College Board can help explore programs available at various institutions.
Alternative Pathways: Consider vocational training or online courses if traditional college isn’t appealing or feasible.
Step 4: Gain Experience
Experience is invaluable when making career decisions:
Internships and Volunteer Work: Seek internships or volunteer opportunities in fields of interest. This hands-on experience will give you a clearer picture of what working in that field entails.
Part-Time Jobs: Even part-time positions related to your areas of interest can provide insight into the work environment and help build relevant skills.
Step 5: Evaluate Your Options
After gathering all this information, take time to evaluate your options:
Pros and Cons List: Create a list comparing the benefits and drawbacks of each potential career path based on your research and experiences.
Long-Term Goals: Consider where you see yourself in five to ten years. Does this career align with your long-term aspirations?
Step 6: Make an Informed Decision
Finally, make an informed decision based on all the data you’ve collected:
Trust your instincts but also rely on factual information gathered during your research.
Remember that it’s okay to change paths later; many people switch careers multiple times throughout their lives.
By following these steps systematically, you should be able to gain clarity about what career choice aligns best with your personal interests, values, and goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides comprehensive data on employment trends, salary statistics, job outlooks for various occupations, and detailed descriptions of job duties across industries.
College Board
This organization offers resources for exploring higher education options including degree programs, college admissions processes, financial aid information, and tools for assessing educational pathways aligned with career goals.
CareerOneStop
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, CareerOneStop provides tools for self-assessment, job search strategies, resume building tips, and detailed information about various careers including required skills and education levels.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Understanding Career Choices: A Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing a career can be a daunting task, especially when you are unsure of your interests or strengths. Here’s a structured approach to help you clarify what you want as a career choice.
Step 1: Self-Assessment
Start by evaluating your interests, values, and skills. This self-assessment can be done through various methods:
Interest Inventories: Tools like the Holland Code (RIASEC) test can help identify your interests and suggest careers that align with them.
Skills Assessment: Reflect on what skills you possess or enjoy using. Consider both hard skills (technical abilities) and soft skills (communication, teamwork).
Values Clarification: Determine what is important to you in a job. This could include work-life balance, salary expectations, job security, or opportunities for advancement.
Step 2: Research Potential Careers
Once you have a better understanding of yourself, start researching potential careers that align with your findings:
Job Descriptions: Look at job postings on websites like LinkedIn or Indeed to understand the qualifications and responsibilities associated with different roles.
Industry Trends: Investigate which industries are growing and what jobs are in demand. Resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provide valuable insights into job outlooks and salary information.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in fields of interest. Conducting informational interviews can provide firsthand insights into daily responsibilities and career paths.
Step 3: Education and Training Requirements
After narrowing down potential careers, investigate the educational requirements for those roles:
Degree Programs: Identify if specific degrees or certifications are necessary for your chosen field. Websites such as College Board can help explore programs available at various institutions.
Alternative Pathways: Consider vocational training or online courses if traditional college isn’t appealing or feasible.
Step 4: Gain Experience
Experience is invaluable when making career decisions:
Internships and Volunteer Work: Seek internships or volunteer opportunities in fields of interest. This hands-on experience will give you a clearer picture of what working in that field entails.
Part-Time Jobs: Even part-time positions related to your areas of interest can provide insight into the work environment and help build relevant skills.
Step 5: Evaluate Your Options
After gathering all this information, take time to evaluate your options:
Pros and Cons List: Create a list comparing the benefits and drawbacks of each potential career path based on your research and experiences.
Long-Term Goals: Consider where you see yourself in five to ten years. Does this career align with your long-term aspirations?
Step 6: Make an Informed Decision
Finally, make an informed decision based on all the data you’ve collected:
Trust your instincts but also rely on factual information gathered during your research.
Remember that it’s okay to change paths later; many people switch careers multiple times throughout their lives.
By following these steps systematically, you should be able to gain clarity about what career choice aligns best with your personal interests, values, and goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides comprehensive data on employment trends, salary statistics, job outlooks for various occupations, and detailed descriptions of job duties across industries.
College Board
This organization offers resources for exploring higher education options including degree programs, college admissions processes, financial aid information, and tools for assessing educational pathways aligned with career goals.
CareerOneStop
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, CareerOneStop provides tools for self-assessment, job search strategies, resume building tips, and detailed information about various careers including required skills and education levels.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Updated
Justin’s Answer
In looking for a study or career choice, something you can do is chose a topic that you naturally gravitate to. Maybe you like math, so careers involving mathematics would be your search. Another thing to consider is, if the career choice is something your passionate about and if you have other reasons for studying aside from it just being a way that you'd make income. By having a solid reason aside from finances when looking at career choices, it will ground you in the future when that field of study brings challenges.
Updated
Adetunji’s Answer
Discovering your ideal career path can be a challenging but rewarding journey. Here are some steps to help you explore and determine what you want as a career choice:
Reflect on Your Interests
1. _What do you enjoy doing in your free time?_ Think about your hobbies, passions, and activities that make you happy.
2. _What subjects do you find most fascinating?_ Consider the topics you enjoy learning about or reading about.
Identify Your Strengths
1. _What are your natural talents?_ Think about your skills, abilities, and areas where you excel.
2. _What skills have you developed over time?_ Consider your experiences, training, and education.
Explore Career Options
1. _Research different careers_: Look into job descriptions, salary ranges, and growth opportunities.
2. _Job shadow or intern_: Gain hands-on experience in industries or roles that interest you.
3. _Network with professionals_: Ask people in your desired field about their experiences and advice.
Consider Your Values and Priorities
1. _What matters most to you in a career?_ Think about your non-negotiables, such as work-life balance, job security, or creative freedom.
2. _What kind of work environment do you thrive in?_ Consider factors like company culture, team size, and work style.
Take Career Assessments
1. _Personality tests_: Explore tests like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Big Five Personality Traits.
2. _Career quizzes_: Utilize online resources like CareerOneStop or the Holland Occupational Themes.
Seek Guidance
1. _Career counselors_: Consult with professionals who can help you explore your options and create a career plan.
2. _Mentors_: Find individuals who can offer valuable advice and support in your desired field.
Some popular career assessment tools and resources include:
1. _O_NET Online: A comprehensive database of occupations and career information.
2. *CareerOneStop: A website offering career assessments, job search resources, and training information.
3. *LinkedIn's Career Explorer: A tool that helps you discover career paths based on your skills and interests.
Remember, finding the right career path is a process that takes time, patience, and self-reflection. Be open to exploring d
Reflect on Your Interests
1. _What do you enjoy doing in your free time?_ Think about your hobbies, passions, and activities that make you happy.
2. _What subjects do you find most fascinating?_ Consider the topics you enjoy learning about or reading about.
Identify Your Strengths
1. _What are your natural talents?_ Think about your skills, abilities, and areas where you excel.
2. _What skills have you developed over time?_ Consider your experiences, training, and education.
Explore Career Options
1. _Research different careers_: Look into job descriptions, salary ranges, and growth opportunities.
2. _Job shadow or intern_: Gain hands-on experience in industries or roles that interest you.
3. _Network with professionals_: Ask people in your desired field about their experiences and advice.
Consider Your Values and Priorities
1. _What matters most to you in a career?_ Think about your non-negotiables, such as work-life balance, job security, or creative freedom.
2. _What kind of work environment do you thrive in?_ Consider factors like company culture, team size, and work style.
Take Career Assessments
1. _Personality tests_: Explore tests like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Big Five Personality Traits.
2. _Career quizzes_: Utilize online resources like CareerOneStop or the Holland Occupational Themes.
Seek Guidance
1. _Career counselors_: Consult with professionals who can help you explore your options and create a career plan.
2. _Mentors_: Find individuals who can offer valuable advice and support in your desired field.
Some popular career assessment tools and resources include:
1. _O_NET Online: A comprehensive database of occupations and career information.
2. *CareerOneStop: A website offering career assessments, job search resources, and training information.
3. *LinkedIn's Career Explorer: A tool that helps you discover career paths based on your skills and interests.
Remember, finding the right career path is a process that takes time, patience, and self-reflection. Be open to exploring d
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
Hi Emily:
I think this question is a hard one to answer because it is solely based on YOU! Self-reflection and self-interests will be important factors when deciding what to study and which career path you would like to begin on. I think it's important to take your time when considering the future and not rush into anything that may be what is expected of you, whether it's societal or familial pressure.
Even though you may have an interest, it doesn't necessarily mean you can make a career out of it. However, there could be personality traits you possess that may make a specific career the one for you. For example, you may have an incredible about of empathy and great listening skills, which could translate well into a career path of helping people, whether it be a social worker, a customer service rep, a therapist, etc.
It's important to identify strengths, weaknesses, interests, and desires early on and use self-reflection to determine what makes the most sense for yourself.
I think this question is a hard one to answer because it is solely based on YOU! Self-reflection and self-interests will be important factors when deciding what to study and which career path you would like to begin on. I think it's important to take your time when considering the future and not rush into anything that may be what is expected of you, whether it's societal or familial pressure.
Even though you may have an interest, it doesn't necessarily mean you can make a career out of it. However, there could be personality traits you possess that may make a specific career the one for you. For example, you may have an incredible about of empathy and great listening skills, which could translate well into a career path of helping people, whether it be a social worker, a customer service rep, a therapist, etc.
It's important to identify strengths, weaknesses, interests, and desires early on and use self-reflection to determine what makes the most sense for yourself.
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. The most important is to find out what careers you have interest.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. if you like maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
If you have interest in music, would you like to be a singer, musical artist, musician, music composer, music producer, etc.
2. Find out more on these career and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue.
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. if you like maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
If you have interest in music, would you like to be a singer, musical artist, musician, music composer, music producer, etc.
2. Find out more on these career and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue.
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Emily,
Ah, the age-old question: “What do I want to be when I grow up?” Trust me, you’re not alone in feeling this way—lots of people (yes, even grown-ups!) are still figuring it out. But don’t worry, the good news is there’s no one perfect path—just the one that makes sense for YOU.
Here’s a fun way to figure it out:
Take a Career Personality Quiz: These can be like a magical GPS to guide you toward your interests. Are you a problem-solver? Creative? A people-person? There are lots of quizzes out there that can give you some ideas about careers that match your personality.
Try New Things: The world is full of cool opportunities! Take a class, do an internship, volunteer, or even shadow someone in a job you think might be interesting. The more you try, the better you’ll understand what clicks for you.
Ask People About Their Jobs: Sometimes hearing about other people’s careers can spark a lightbulb moment. Ask your friends, family, or even strangers (in a non-creepy way, of course) what they do and how they got there.
Think About What You Love Doing: Do you love helping people, solving problems, or being creative? What you enjoy in your free time might be a clue. Maybe you love reading about tech, creating art, or organizing things—each of these can lead to some interesting career paths!
Be Open to Change: Remember, careers don’t have to be set in stone. You can always change your mind along the way—many people switch careers as they grow and learn more about themselves.
No rush, just start exploring! It’s a journey, not a race, so enjoy figuring it out.
Good luck, and may the career path of your dreams be just around the corner (with maybe a few detours for fun)! 😄
Ah, the age-old question: “What do I want to be when I grow up?” Trust me, you’re not alone in feeling this way—lots of people (yes, even grown-ups!) are still figuring it out. But don’t worry, the good news is there’s no one perfect path—just the one that makes sense for YOU.
Here’s a fun way to figure it out:
Take a Career Personality Quiz: These can be like a magical GPS to guide you toward your interests. Are you a problem-solver? Creative? A people-person? There are lots of quizzes out there that can give you some ideas about careers that match your personality.
Try New Things: The world is full of cool opportunities! Take a class, do an internship, volunteer, or even shadow someone in a job you think might be interesting. The more you try, the better you’ll understand what clicks for you.
Ask People About Their Jobs: Sometimes hearing about other people’s careers can spark a lightbulb moment. Ask your friends, family, or even strangers (in a non-creepy way, of course) what they do and how they got there.
Think About What You Love Doing: Do you love helping people, solving problems, or being creative? What you enjoy in your free time might be a clue. Maybe you love reading about tech, creating art, or organizing things—each of these can lead to some interesting career paths!
Be Open to Change: Remember, careers don’t have to be set in stone. You can always change your mind along the way—many people switch careers as they grow and learn more about themselves.
No rush, just start exploring! It’s a journey, not a race, so enjoy figuring it out.
Good luck, and may the career path of your dreams be just around the corner (with maybe a few detours for fun)! 😄
Updated
Anzleigh’s Answer
I just wanted to add into what everyone else has said and mention that you don't need to feel as if you need to know what you want to do for the rest of your life right now! If you're able to find something that you love doing, then that's wonderful! But don't be discouraged if you seem to like multiple things or just can't make up your mind. I'm a junior in college, and I've changed my major twice and entered three different career fields all by the time I was 21! You'e got this!