3 answers
Zuwa
Student
Malvern, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Updated
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How do I know i have picked the right major to set me up for future jobs?
Im a senior at Conestoga High School. I am currently taking Economics. And will major in Business Economics. At Bentley University.
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3 answers
Suzan Beacham
Pricing Analyst
3
Answers
Hershey, Pennsylvania
Updated
Suzan’s Answer
Short answer, there is no way to know. Also, picking a major for the sake of having good job prospects is not the best way to determine future success. Be sure you actually like the field you plan to study. Keep in mind, you will do this job for the next 40 years, 8 hours a day, 5 days a week.
I suggest you create a Vision Board. Know your values, understand the things that are important to you. Understand where you can compromise and what is a deal-breaker. Example, are you willing to relocate for a job? What about company culture? Don't be fooled by what companies have on their website, they are trying to "sell" their brand to you. I suggest finding people who have the job you are training for and ask them what they like and do not like about their jobs. Ask about their employer, i.e., what is their management like? Having a bad manager can make your life miserable. Do you like repetitive work, or do you like variety? Do you want to advance quickly, or are you ok being in the same job for many years? It's important to really understand your values and what is important to you. I recommend two books, both by the same author. First book, I Could Do Anything If I Only Knew What it Was, and Wishcraft: How to Get What You Really Want. The author is Barbara Sher. Take the time to fully understand what you want to get out of your career. Trust me, you will be glad you made this investment up front, instead of finding out later you made the wrong choice for your career. I hope this helps.
Understand why you chose this field to study.
Consider you will do this job for the next 40 years.
Network and find people who have the job you want. Talk to them about what they like and don't like about their career.
Create a Vision Board so you can easily see what it's import to you. There are lots of examples on the internet.
Know yourself and don't be afraid to pursue your passion.
I suggest you create a Vision Board. Know your values, understand the things that are important to you. Understand where you can compromise and what is a deal-breaker. Example, are you willing to relocate for a job? What about company culture? Don't be fooled by what companies have on their website, they are trying to "sell" their brand to you. I suggest finding people who have the job you are training for and ask them what they like and do not like about their jobs. Ask about their employer, i.e., what is their management like? Having a bad manager can make your life miserable. Do you like repetitive work, or do you like variety? Do you want to advance quickly, or are you ok being in the same job for many years? It's important to really understand your values and what is important to you. I recommend two books, both by the same author. First book, I Could Do Anything If I Only Knew What it Was, and Wishcraft: How to Get What You Really Want. The author is Barbara Sher. Take the time to fully understand what you want to get out of your career. Trust me, you will be glad you made this investment up front, instead of finding out later you made the wrong choice for your career. I hope this helps.
Suzan recommends the following next steps:
Hey Suzan! I was looking through questions others were posting and I saw your comment. I find this very helpful so I just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to write this! I'm a current high school junior and I plan to pursue something in business and possibly start my own business though I'm still trying to map out my future path.
Marissa
Great! I'm glad you find my comments helpful.
Suzan Beacham
Vika White
Indonesian Translator/Interpreter/Writer
5
Answers
Olympia, Washington
Updated
Vika’s Answer
Hi Zuwa,
You wouldn't know. However, it's exciting to explore what truly drives you in life! Start by asking yourself what you're passionate about. Think about the careers you might pursue after studying Business Economics. Imagine achieving that dream job—will it bring you happiness and fulfillment? Can you see yourself as an entrepreneur, or do you envision working for a company?
Many of us start our careers from the ground up, often taking time to discover our true paths by trying different jobs. Some find their dreams quickly, while others are still searching. The key is to keep exploring and learning, even when the future seems unclear. People say, satisfaction is limitless, but feeling content is a true success.
Jobs change over time, so staying adaptable and growing personally is essential. Learning helps you develop skills that lead to a fulfilling and productive life, no matter where you end up. Keep pursuing your dreams, and I hope you find what you're looking for. Good luck!
You wouldn't know. However, it's exciting to explore what truly drives you in life! Start by asking yourself what you're passionate about. Think about the careers you might pursue after studying Business Economics. Imagine achieving that dream job—will it bring you happiness and fulfillment? Can you see yourself as an entrepreneur, or do you envision working for a company?
Many of us start our careers from the ground up, often taking time to discover our true paths by trying different jobs. Some find their dreams quickly, while others are still searching. The key is to keep exploring and learning, even when the future seems unclear. People say, satisfaction is limitless, but feeling content is a true success.
Jobs change over time, so staying adaptable and growing personally is essential. Learning helps you develop skills that lead to a fulfilling and productive life, no matter where you end up. Keep pursuing your dreams, and I hope you find what you're looking for. Good luck!
Ryan G
Consulting
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
That's an excellent question! Many people aren't sure if they've chosen the "right" major when they first start, and that's completely okay.
When I began college, I planned to double major in Finance and Spanish. However, I graduated with a degree in Marketing and International Business, which turned out to be a perfect match for me. I found the classes much more engaging, and the career options really excited me after I made the switch.
For some guidance, one of the best things you can do early on is to start talking to people. Connect with alumni from Bentley, older students, or family and friends in interesting roles or industries. Ask them about their journey, what they studied, and what they wish they knew in college. You'll discover that people take many different paths.
When networking, don't limit yourself to business school events. There are many other ways to meet people, like joining clubs, working on campus, or attending speaker events. Every conversation can offer a new perspective. If certain stories inspire you or opportunities excite you, it might be a sign to explore that major or career path further.
Lastly, don't feel pressured to stick with something just because it seems "safe" or "right." The best choice is something you enjoy, aligns with your strengths, and offers solid career potential that matches your goals, whether that's a high salary, a mission-driven company, great work-life balance, or strong future opportunities. It might take some trial and error, but keep exploring and figuring it out as you go.
When I began college, I planned to double major in Finance and Spanish. However, I graduated with a degree in Marketing and International Business, which turned out to be a perfect match for me. I found the classes much more engaging, and the career options really excited me after I made the switch.
For some guidance, one of the best things you can do early on is to start talking to people. Connect with alumni from Bentley, older students, or family and friends in interesting roles or industries. Ask them about their journey, what they studied, and what they wish they knew in college. You'll discover that people take many different paths.
When networking, don't limit yourself to business school events. There are many other ways to meet people, like joining clubs, working on campus, or attending speaker events. Every conversation can offer a new perspective. If certain stories inspire you or opportunities excite you, it might be a sign to explore that major or career path further.
Lastly, don't feel pressured to stick with something just because it seems "safe" or "right." The best choice is something you enjoy, aligns with your strengths, and offers solid career potential that matches your goals, whether that's a high salary, a mission-driven company, great work-life balance, or strong future opportunities. It might take some trial and error, but keep exploring and figuring it out as you go.