7 answers
Asel
Student
Ankara, Turkey
1
Question
Asked
2843 views
As a university student, how can I improve myself, and which areas should I focus on for greater advantage?
I am a business administration student, and I will graduate next year. However, I am still uncertain about what specific career path to pursue and which field to focus on. I am eager to develop my skills and connect with various industries, and I would like to find a role that allows me to work remotely. I would appreciate any guidance you can provide in this regard.
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7 answers
Gabe Ceja
Winemaker
1
Answer
San Luis Obispo, California
Updated
Gabe’s Answer
I’ve had several jobs/roles which I liked, but didn’t love. You won’t know until you get some experience in different areas (it’s ok to try something and then discover it isn’t for you).
I suggest looking into an internship, because they are present in almost every industry. They’re temporary, and usually full of blended experiences, especially in the world of business.
Remote work is great for some people, but don’t rule out in-person experiences. They will really help you to understand the office dynamic and what you do and don’t like about them. Plus, you’ll learn things a lot faster.
Note: Don’t take an unpaid internship.
Look for internship opportunities
Attend student networking events
Enhance your LinkedIn profile
Reach out to alumni relations staff at your school
I suggest looking into an internship, because they are present in almost every industry. They’re temporary, and usually full of blended experiences, especially in the world of business.
Remote work is great for some people, but don’t rule out in-person experiences. They will really help you to understand the office dynamic and what you do and don’t like about them. Plus, you’ll learn things a lot faster.
Note: Don’t take an unpaid internship.
Gabe recommends the following next steps:
David Barcelona
Guest Lecturer
11
Answers
Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Asel! First of all, let me say how impressive it is that you’re thinking about this now—while you’re still in university and preparing for life after graduation. That level of self-awareness and eagerness to grow is a huge advantage. You’re not just waiting for opportunities to come to you; you’re actively seeking ways to shape your future. That’s exactly the mindset that will set you apart!
Now, as a business administration student nearing graduation, you’re in an exciting position. Business is such a versatile field, and your degree gives you access to countless industries and roles. But I get it—it can also feel overwhelming because there are so many options. Let’s break this down into actionable steps to help you improve yourself, explore your interests, and find a path (and maybe even remote work!) that aligns with your goals.
1. Focus on Skill Development
Even if you’re unsure about your exact career path, there are universal skills that every employer values—and these will give you flexibility no matter where you end up. Here’s where to focus:
Technical Skills:
Since you’re interested in remote work, being tech-savvy is essential. Learn tools like:
Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets (for data analysis and reporting).
Project Management Tools like Trello, Asana, or Monday.com.
Communication Platforms like Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams.
Bonus points if you pick up some basic coding or data visualization skills (e.g., Python, Tableau)—these are increasingly valuable in business roles.
Soft Skills:
These are timeless and transferable across industries:
Communication: Practice writing emails, reports, and presentations clearly and professionally.
Problem-Solving: Look for opportunities to tackle challenges creatively, whether in class projects or extracurriculars.
Time Management: Remote work requires discipline—start building habits now by setting goals, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines consistently.
Industry-Specific Knowledge:
If you’re curious about certain fields (marketing, finance, consulting, etc.), dive deeper through online courses, podcasts, or books. For example:
Marketing: Explore digital marketing strategies, SEO, or social media trends.
Finance: Learn about budgeting, financial modeling, or investment basics.
Consulting: Study case studies and frameworks like SWOT analysis or Porter’s Five Forces.
2. Experiment to Find Your Passion
You don’t need to have everything figured out right now—and honestly, most people don’t at this stage. Use your remaining time in university to test different paths:
Internships:
Internships are one of the best ways to “try before you buy.” Even short-term internships can give you insight into day-to-day responsibilities and company culture. Apply widely—don’t limit yourself to just one field.
Networking:
Talk to professionals in industries you’re curious about. Ask questions like:
What does a typical day look like in your role?
What skills are most important for success in this field?
Do you see opportunities for remote work in this industry?
LinkedIn is perfect for this—connect with alumni from your university or join groups related to business administration.
Freelancing/Projects:
Start small-scale freelance gigs or side projects to gain hands-on experience. For example:
Offer social media management services to local businesses.
Create a blog or YouTube channel about topics you love (bonus: this builds personal branding!).
Collaborate with classmates on mock business plans or case competitions.
3. Build a Strong Personal Brand
In today’s competitive job market, standing out is key. Start crafting your personal brand now so you’re ready when you graduate:
LinkedIn Profile:
Create or update your LinkedIn profile—it’s a must-have for networking and job hunting. Highlight your education, skills, internships, and any projects you’ve worked on. Write a compelling headline like:
“Business Administration Student | Passionate About Remote Work & Strategic Problem-Solving”
Portfolio:
If applicable, create a portfolio showcasing your work. This could include business plans, marketing campaigns, or research papers. Tools like Canva or Notion make it easy to design visually appealing portfolios.
Online Presence:
Share insights or articles on platforms like LinkedIn or Medium. For instance, write about trends in remote work or share tips for other students. This positions you as someone who’s knowledgeable and engaged.
4. Explore Remote Work Opportunities
Remote work is becoming more common across industries, but certain fields naturally lend themselves to it. Here are some areas to consider:
Digital Marketing: Roles like content creation, social media management, and SEO often allow remote work.
Consulting/Freelancing: Many consultants work independently or with global clients remotely.
Tech Sales/Customer Success: These roles often involve virtual communication with clients.
Data Analysis: Analyzing data and creating reports can easily be done from anywhere.
To increase your chances of landing remote work:
Highlight your ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
Get comfortable using collaboration tools mentioned earlier.
Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize adaptability and tech proficiency.
5. Stay Open-Minded & Keep Learning
It’s okay to feel uncertain about your exact career path—you’ll figure it out over time. The key is to stay curious and keep exploring. Some final thoughts:
Be Patient: Finding the right fit takes trial and error. Each step—whether it’s an internship, networking chat, or online course—brings you closer to clarity.
Embrace Lifelong Learning: Graduation isn’t the end of your education. Keep reading, taking courses, and seeking feedback to continuously grow.
Trust Yourself: You’ve already shown initiative by asking these questions. That same drive will guide you toward success.
Asel, you’re in such a great position to shape your future. By focusing on skill-building, experimenting with different roles, and staying open to new opportunities, you’ll discover what truly excites you. And remember, remote work is totally achievable with the right preparation—you’ve got this!
Take it one step at a time, celebrate your progress along the way, and trust that you’re laying a strong foundation for whatever comes next. You’re going to crush it!
Now, as a business administration student nearing graduation, you’re in an exciting position. Business is such a versatile field, and your degree gives you access to countless industries and roles. But I get it—it can also feel overwhelming because there are so many options. Let’s break this down into actionable steps to help you improve yourself, explore your interests, and find a path (and maybe even remote work!) that aligns with your goals.
1. Focus on Skill Development
Even if you’re unsure about your exact career path, there are universal skills that every employer values—and these will give you flexibility no matter where you end up. Here’s where to focus:
Technical Skills:
Since you’re interested in remote work, being tech-savvy is essential. Learn tools like:
Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets (for data analysis and reporting).
Project Management Tools like Trello, Asana, or Monday.com.
Communication Platforms like Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams.
Bonus points if you pick up some basic coding or data visualization skills (e.g., Python, Tableau)—these are increasingly valuable in business roles.
Soft Skills:
These are timeless and transferable across industries:
Communication: Practice writing emails, reports, and presentations clearly and professionally.
Problem-Solving: Look for opportunities to tackle challenges creatively, whether in class projects or extracurriculars.
Time Management: Remote work requires discipline—start building habits now by setting goals, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines consistently.
Industry-Specific Knowledge:
If you’re curious about certain fields (marketing, finance, consulting, etc.), dive deeper through online courses, podcasts, or books. For example:
Marketing: Explore digital marketing strategies, SEO, or social media trends.
Finance: Learn about budgeting, financial modeling, or investment basics.
Consulting: Study case studies and frameworks like SWOT analysis or Porter’s Five Forces.
2. Experiment to Find Your Passion
You don’t need to have everything figured out right now—and honestly, most people don’t at this stage. Use your remaining time in university to test different paths:
Internships:
Internships are one of the best ways to “try before you buy.” Even short-term internships can give you insight into day-to-day responsibilities and company culture. Apply widely—don’t limit yourself to just one field.
Networking:
Talk to professionals in industries you’re curious about. Ask questions like:
What does a typical day look like in your role?
What skills are most important for success in this field?
Do you see opportunities for remote work in this industry?
LinkedIn is perfect for this—connect with alumni from your university or join groups related to business administration.
Freelancing/Projects:
Start small-scale freelance gigs or side projects to gain hands-on experience. For example:
Offer social media management services to local businesses.
Create a blog or YouTube channel about topics you love (bonus: this builds personal branding!).
Collaborate with classmates on mock business plans or case competitions.
3. Build a Strong Personal Brand
In today’s competitive job market, standing out is key. Start crafting your personal brand now so you’re ready when you graduate:
LinkedIn Profile:
Create or update your LinkedIn profile—it’s a must-have for networking and job hunting. Highlight your education, skills, internships, and any projects you’ve worked on. Write a compelling headline like:
“Business Administration Student | Passionate About Remote Work & Strategic Problem-Solving”
Portfolio:
If applicable, create a portfolio showcasing your work. This could include business plans, marketing campaigns, or research papers. Tools like Canva or Notion make it easy to design visually appealing portfolios.
Online Presence:
Share insights or articles on platforms like LinkedIn or Medium. For instance, write about trends in remote work or share tips for other students. This positions you as someone who’s knowledgeable and engaged.
4. Explore Remote Work Opportunities
Remote work is becoming more common across industries, but certain fields naturally lend themselves to it. Here are some areas to consider:
Digital Marketing: Roles like content creation, social media management, and SEO often allow remote work.
Consulting/Freelancing: Many consultants work independently or with global clients remotely.
Tech Sales/Customer Success: These roles often involve virtual communication with clients.
Data Analysis: Analyzing data and creating reports can easily be done from anywhere.
To increase your chances of landing remote work:
Highlight your ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
Get comfortable using collaboration tools mentioned earlier.
Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize adaptability and tech proficiency.
5. Stay Open-Minded & Keep Learning
It’s okay to feel uncertain about your exact career path—you’ll figure it out over time. The key is to stay curious and keep exploring. Some final thoughts:
Be Patient: Finding the right fit takes trial and error. Each step—whether it’s an internship, networking chat, or online course—brings you closer to clarity.
Embrace Lifelong Learning: Graduation isn’t the end of your education. Keep reading, taking courses, and seeking feedback to continuously grow.
Trust Yourself: You’ve already shown initiative by asking these questions. That same drive will guide you toward success.
Asel, you’re in such a great position to shape your future. By focusing on skill-building, experimenting with different roles, and staying open to new opportunities, you’ll discover what truly excites you. And remember, remote work is totally achievable with the right preparation—you’ve got this!
Take it one step at a time, celebrate your progress along the way, and trust that you’re laying a strong foundation for whatever comes next. You’re going to crush it!
Pat McQueen
Solution Engineering
1
Answer
Boyne City, Michigan
Updated
Pat’s Answer
Choosing the right career path or field can feel challenging, but it's an exciting journey! I often suggest trying out different roles to see what fits you best. Internships are a fantastic way to explore what you enjoy or dislike about certain jobs and companies. By experiencing different work environments, you can discover if you prefer a formal office, a casual setting, or working from home. You'll also find out whether you enjoy tasks like working with spreadsheets or engaging in more creative activities.
Working in person, especially early in your career, can be incredibly beneficial. Being side by side with others allows you to ask questions and receive quick feedback. While remote work is popular, in-person experiences can speed up your learning. Your main goal right now is to learn—find out what you like, what paths to follow, and how to build the skills you need for success.
Remember, careers often have many twists and turns. There's no need to worry about where you'll be in 20 years. Focus on learning your likes and dislikes and take the next step. A 20-year career is just a series of decisions about what's next. As they say, the journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step!
Try out a career by getting an internship
Working in person, especially early in your career, can be incredibly beneficial. Being side by side with others allows you to ask questions and receive quick feedback. While remote work is popular, in-person experiences can speed up your learning. Your main goal right now is to learn—find out what you like, what paths to follow, and how to build the skills you need for success.
Remember, careers often have many twists and turns. There's no need to worry about where you'll be in 20 years. Focus on learning your likes and dislikes and take the next step. A 20-year career is just a series of decisions about what's next. As they say, the journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step!
Pat recommends the following next steps:
Jerry Bires
career coach
37
Answers
Carbondale, Illinois
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
Asel,
Many fine answers here, so I don't want to be repetitive. Truly, you are experiencing what I, the other folks who answered you, and about 50 million others on planet Earth also have gone through at your age in their lives. And your "search" may last decades, if I offer my own path as an example.
I'm currently in my seventies. When I was 43, an employer looked at my resume and said my career progression didn't make sense to him because it appeared I had worked multiple, and seemingly unrelated, jobs. In truth, he was right. I'd moved from Ohio to Los Angeles to the SF Bay area, which meant new employers at each stop. My interests and skills/abilities had changed, not only my geographic location. Truly, only I could link together why the shifts in employment had been made. Bottom line, he hired me in 2003 and I worked for him as an employee and then a contractor for 15 years. Bottom line...you can't predict your future. So how may this relate to you?
First, we're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function?
Conduct this Google search: what business administration professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.
Good fortune to you.
Many fine answers here, so I don't want to be repetitive. Truly, you are experiencing what I, the other folks who answered you, and about 50 million others on planet Earth also have gone through at your age in their lives. And your "search" may last decades, if I offer my own path as an example.
I'm currently in my seventies. When I was 43, an employer looked at my resume and said my career progression didn't make sense to him because it appeared I had worked multiple, and seemingly unrelated, jobs. In truth, he was right. I'd moved from Ohio to Los Angeles to the SF Bay area, which meant new employers at each stop. My interests and skills/abilities had changed, not only my geographic location. Truly, only I could link together why the shifts in employment had been made. Bottom line, he hired me in 2003 and I worked for him as an employee and then a contractor for 15 years. Bottom line...you can't predict your future. So how may this relate to you?
First, we're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function?
Conduct this Google search: what business administration professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.
Good fortune to you.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
902
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Asel,
Jerry and David have shared some great insights, and I just want to add that it’s completely normal to feel unsure about your exact career path, most students do at some point! The great thing about business administration is that it opens up a lot of opportunities, and the key is figuring out what excites you and what kind of work fits your lifestyle goals. Since you're looking for something remote-friendly and want to develop your skills, here are a few things to focus on that can give you an edge.
First, strengthen your digital and analytical skills. Many remote business roles require proficiency in tools like Excel, Google Analytics, or CRM platforms like Salesforce. If marketing interests you, learning SEO or social media strategy can be valuable. If finance is more appealing, getting comfortable with financial modeling or data analysis can help. The more hands-on skills you gain, the more competitive you'll be in the job market.
Next, start networking—it’s a game-changer. Reach out to alumni, join LinkedIn groups, and attend virtual industry events. Even a quick conversation with someone working in a field you’re curious about can open doors and spark new ideas. Don’t hesitate to message professionals for informational interviews—most are happy to share advice.
Also, consider gaining real-world experience outside of traditional internships. Freelancing on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, volunteering for a non-profit, or helping a small business with marketing or finances can all boost your resume. Many remote-friendly careers, like digital marketing, business analysis, and consulting, prioritize practical experience over just having a degree.
Finally, don’t put too much pressure on yourself to have everything figured out right now. You’re already taking important steps by thinking about your future and exploring options. Keep learning, connecting with people, and trying out different roles—your ideal career will start to take shape naturally.
You’ve got this!
Best wishes!
Jerry and David have shared some great insights, and I just want to add that it’s completely normal to feel unsure about your exact career path, most students do at some point! The great thing about business administration is that it opens up a lot of opportunities, and the key is figuring out what excites you and what kind of work fits your lifestyle goals. Since you're looking for something remote-friendly and want to develop your skills, here are a few things to focus on that can give you an edge.
First, strengthen your digital and analytical skills. Many remote business roles require proficiency in tools like Excel, Google Analytics, or CRM platforms like Salesforce. If marketing interests you, learning SEO or social media strategy can be valuable. If finance is more appealing, getting comfortable with financial modeling or data analysis can help. The more hands-on skills you gain, the more competitive you'll be in the job market.
Next, start networking—it’s a game-changer. Reach out to alumni, join LinkedIn groups, and attend virtual industry events. Even a quick conversation with someone working in a field you’re curious about can open doors and spark new ideas. Don’t hesitate to message professionals for informational interviews—most are happy to share advice.
Also, consider gaining real-world experience outside of traditional internships. Freelancing on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, volunteering for a non-profit, or helping a small business with marketing or finances can all boost your resume. Many remote-friendly careers, like digital marketing, business analysis, and consulting, prioritize practical experience over just having a degree.
Finally, don’t put too much pressure on yourself to have everything figured out right now. You’re already taking important steps by thinking about your future and exploring options. Keep learning, connecting with people, and trying out different roles—your ideal career will start to take shape naturally.
You’ve got this!
Best wishes!
David Ludwick
Business Owner
27
Answers
Huntington Beach, California
Updated
David’s Answer
That's a great focus! Since you're studying business administration, you can position yourself for long-term success by developing a mix of hard skills (technical knowledge) and soft skills (interpersonal and strategic thinking). Here’s a structured approach:
Core Areas to Focus On:
Finance and Accounting
Master financial statements, budgeting, and financial analysis.
Learn financial modeling and corporate finance basics.
Marketing and Strategy
Understand market research, consumer behavior, and digital marketing.
Study competitive analysis and strategic planning.
Operations and Supply Chain Management
Learn about process optimization, logistics, and inventory management.
Understand lean management and Six Sigma principles.
Management and Leadership
Develop skills in team building, conflict resolution, and motivation.
Study organizational behavior and change management.
Economics and Business Law
Grasp microeconomics and macroeconomics fundamentals.
Learn about contract law, intellectual property, and corporate regulations.
Professional Development Tips:
Networking: Attend business events, join professional associations (like Beta Gamma Sigma), and build LinkedIn connections.
Internships: Prioritize internships in diverse fields to find your niche and build experience.
Certifications: Consider certifications like CFA (finance), PMP (project management), or Google Analytics (marketing).
Stay Updated: Follow business news (WSJ, Bloomberg) and business influencers for market insights.
✅ Data Analysis & Business Intelligence – Learn Excel, Power BI, and SQL.
✅ Technology & Digital Transformation – Understand automation, AI, and digital platforms.
✅ Communication & Negotiation – Sharpen your public speaking and deal-making abilities.
✅ Project Management – Get familiar with Agile, Scrum, and project planning tools.
✅ Entrepreneurship & Innovation – Develop a problem-solving mindset and explore startup models.
Core Areas to Focus On:
Finance and Accounting
Master financial statements, budgeting, and financial analysis.
Learn financial modeling and corporate finance basics.
Marketing and Strategy
Understand market research, consumer behavior, and digital marketing.
Study competitive analysis and strategic planning.
Operations and Supply Chain Management
Learn about process optimization, logistics, and inventory management.
Understand lean management and Six Sigma principles.
Management and Leadership
Develop skills in team building, conflict resolution, and motivation.
Study organizational behavior and change management.
Economics and Business Law
Grasp microeconomics and macroeconomics fundamentals.
Learn about contract law, intellectual property, and corporate regulations.
Professional Development Tips:
Networking: Attend business events, join professional associations (like Beta Gamma Sigma), and build LinkedIn connections.
Internships: Prioritize internships in diverse fields to find your niche and build experience.
Certifications: Consider certifications like CFA (finance), PMP (project management), or Google Analytics (marketing).
Stay Updated: Follow business news (WSJ, Bloomberg) and business influencers for market insights.
David recommends the following next steps:
Majabin Qalandari Sediqi
4
Answers
Roseville, California
Updated
Majabin’s Answer
It’s totally okay to feel uncertain at this stage—many people do! Since you’re studying Business Administration, you have a lot of options. If you’re looking for remote work, consider fields like digital marketing, project management, business analysis, or even consulting. These roles are flexible and in demand for remote positions.
Start by exploring what interests you the most. Do you like working with data, people, or creating strategies? It might help to take a few online courses in areas that catch your eye—there are plenty of free or affordable options out there. Also, try to get some experience through internships or freelance work, even if it’s part-time or short-term. That way, you can get a feel for different roles.
Take your time and remember, there’s no rush to figure everything out right away. You’ll find the right path as you go. Let me know if you need help or suggestions!
Start by exploring what interests you the most. Do you like working with data, people, or creating strategies? It might help to take a few online courses in areas that catch your eye—there are plenty of free or affordable options out there. Also, try to get some experience through internships or freelance work, even if it’s part-time or short-term. That way, you can get a feel for different roles.
Take your time and remember, there’s no rush to figure everything out right away. You’ll find the right path as you go. Let me know if you need help or suggestions!