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Career and Life advice?
Hi, I'm Abdullah a senior in high school in NYC. I have applied to colleges, mostly business schools but I'm not sure if this was the right choice long term. I'm interested in consumer psychology and social psychology - why people buy the things they do and how companies have the power to influence people's spending habits. So I'm assuming marketing would be the right track for me right? But, I consider myself really introverted and I always choke up in interviews or presentations. Like I get really nervous when talking in front of big audiences, and I would just consider myself a bit socially awkward. I see myself working at a company, I picture myself going to work, learning about customers' spending habits and how that affects how much or what kind of service or product they will continuously purchase. Any advice on what classes I should take in college, what kind of opportunities I should pursue ASAP, who I should be building connections with, how to be a better speaker (LOL) ? Thank you so much!
#business #college #career #marketing #internship
12 answers
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Abdullah,
Are you good with numbers? There is a growing field called "Data Analytics." Here is one link to information https://www.mastersindatascience.org/resources/what-is-data-analytics/
Being able to work more with data and less with people might be for you. At the very least, you should take an Intro course in this subject. Of course, I am one who likes to encourage people to meet obstacles head-on. I was in one career for 25 years, and avoided certain opportunities because of a fear of public speaking. In my second career, I was required to occasionally teach classes! Yikes! But the more I did it, the more comfortable I became. You have to find a way to "connect" with the people. I did it by starting with a short "test," because attendance was mandatory and people didn't want to be there. Through the test, I demonstrated to them that they just might learn something useful. A lot of people start with jokes, but I can't do that successfully. Or, they start with a short story of a life experience, and then use that to lead into the presentation. I recommend you look into joining Toastmasters. It is a group of people that practices public speaking! They will be supportive of you. Avoiding something, like what I did, will limit your career growth. https://www.toastmasters.org/
Job interviews? Everyone gets nervous! I totally understand social awkwardness. I am too. I'm really good at saying the wrong thing at the wrong time! However, again, through experience, you will get better. You want to have some jobs before looking for your first career position. It doesn't matter if they are customer service, warehouse, or whatever. It's difficult going to a professional interview with no previous work experience. The interviewer should try to put you at ease. Not everyone doing interviewing is cut out for it, so, if it goes bad, it could be their fault! The key will be in preparation. Don't memorize answers, but know what you want to say to certain potential questions! You want to come across as candid and honest.
Bottom line: The more you challenge yourself, and the more success you have, the more self-confident you will become. Even failure will help, because you know that you can get up and take another step, that it's not the end of the world. seriously!!!
Are you good with numbers? There is a growing field called "Data Analytics." Here is one link to information https://www.mastersindatascience.org/resources/what-is-data-analytics/
Being able to work more with data and less with people might be for you. At the very least, you should take an Intro course in this subject. Of course, I am one who likes to encourage people to meet obstacles head-on. I was in one career for 25 years, and avoided certain opportunities because of a fear of public speaking. In my second career, I was required to occasionally teach classes! Yikes! But the more I did it, the more comfortable I became. You have to find a way to "connect" with the people. I did it by starting with a short "test," because attendance was mandatory and people didn't want to be there. Through the test, I demonstrated to them that they just might learn something useful. A lot of people start with jokes, but I can't do that successfully. Or, they start with a short story of a life experience, and then use that to lead into the presentation. I recommend you look into joining Toastmasters. It is a group of people that practices public speaking! They will be supportive of you. Avoiding something, like what I did, will limit your career growth. https://www.toastmasters.org/
Job interviews? Everyone gets nervous! I totally understand social awkwardness. I am too. I'm really good at saying the wrong thing at the wrong time! However, again, through experience, you will get better. You want to have some jobs before looking for your first career position. It doesn't matter if they are customer service, warehouse, or whatever. It's difficult going to a professional interview with no previous work experience. The interviewer should try to put you at ease. Not everyone doing interviewing is cut out for it, so, if it goes bad, it could be their fault! The key will be in preparation. Don't memorize answers, but know what you want to say to certain potential questions! You want to come across as candid and honest.
Bottom line: The more you challenge yourself, and the more success you have, the more self-confident you will become. Even failure will help, because you know that you can get up and take another step, that it's not the end of the world. seriously!!!
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Marketing and Data Science are a great place to start. I'd also recommend getting some coding practice as well as looking into Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning aspects of your interests.
You have to get uncomfortable to get comfortable Abdulla! Most people do feel nervous before speaking publicly, the best way to deal with it is head on. Take a speech class or join a club that interests you and volunteer to speak on something you know a lot about, something you are confident in. Go into it knowing that you may make mistakes. Plan ahead of time to accept and learn from those mistakes so you can do better next time. Look for the earliest opportunity to speak again so you can work on improving your skills and help to overcome your fear.
You have to get uncomfortable to get comfortable Abdulla! Most people do feel nervous before speaking publicly, the best way to deal with it is head on. Take a speech class or join a club that interests you and volunteer to speak on something you know a lot about, something you are confident in. Go into it knowing that you may make mistakes. Plan ahead of time to accept and learn from those mistakes so you can do better next time. Look for the earliest opportunity to speak again so you can work on improving your skills and help to overcome your fear.
Updated
Alecia’s Answer
To help with the nerves during interviews, one way to get better is to have "practice" interviews - go to local business who are hiring and ask for an interview. Pick places where you are not even trying to work - that way you won't be as nervous. Try big stores, mall stores, fast food places. With volume comes improvement. With each completed interview, you will gain confidence. Also, ask for feedback from the interviewer. Lastly, when you are interviewing with someone - check out the interviewer's LinkedIn profile - look for something you might have in common with them: college, town, charity, interests, etc. This helps break the ice and makes the interviewer "pull" for you because now they like you and/or have something in common.
Updated
Angela D.’s Answer
Hey Abdullah! Good questions! A first step would be to take a look at the marketing programs available, especially in New York state so you don't have to pay out-of-state tuition. Also, research what types of careers you can have in this area. In fact, speaking of research, you may find marketing research rewarding. A social psychology minor may be a good idea, check with your school counselor or academic counselor at your university when you land there. You can also consider shadowing or interviewing someone in the field(s) that you are interested in. Again, your school counselor may be able to connect you with someone or you may have contacts within your circle of family members and friends. I will tell you one thing about my social psychology courses, they really opened my eyes to several things, which have been helpful as a developmental and educational psychologist. You'll learn about such concepts as conformity, deference to authority, persuasion, group dynamics, etc. As far as public speaking goes...practice. Note that there is a difference between participating in a meeting/interview vs. standing on stage at a podium. Eye gaze is helpful (but don't stare)...it engages your audience in any setting. You can always use handwritten or tablet notes to stay on track. I would recommend taking a speech course to assist you as well. You seem to be a keen observer and that's important in any field. I wish you the best of luck in your endeavors! Be brave, regards, Dr. B
Research degrees and careers
Interview or shadow
Speech course (and practice public speaking)
Angela D. recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Bingxin’s Answer
Hey Abdullah,
I was like you when i was at your age. Here are some tips for you.
To overcome nervousness in interview:
Grasp every chance to get practice. 1) When you go to collage, you could apply to join multiple student associations. Some associations will have interviews to select members. Go use this chance to become bold. 2) You will have lots of opportunities speaking publicly in college, like doing presentations in the class, conducting a student event. Step out of your comfort zone and take more responsibilities. You should feel less nervous expressing yourself.
About what class to choose:
I studied consumer psychology in my master degree. It is a very interesting academic area. And you need to learn statistics, data analytics, etc. It depends on what interests you actually. In the meantime, I would suggest you read some relevant material before applying a course. Because the name of some course may interest you but the content may not.
Another suggestion for being a future business school students: do as much internships as you could. Internships make you understand how real business world is and let you find your interest/strength as well.
I was like you when i was at your age. Here are some tips for you.
To overcome nervousness in interview:
Grasp every chance to get practice. 1) When you go to collage, you could apply to join multiple student associations. Some associations will have interviews to select members. Go use this chance to become bold. 2) You will have lots of opportunities speaking publicly in college, like doing presentations in the class, conducting a student event. Step out of your comfort zone and take more responsibilities. You should feel less nervous expressing yourself.
About what class to choose:
I studied consumer psychology in my master degree. It is a very interesting academic area. And you need to learn statistics, data analytics, etc. It depends on what interests you actually. In the meantime, I would suggest you read some relevant material before applying a course. Because the name of some course may interest you but the content may not.
Another suggestion for being a future business school students: do as much internships as you could. Internships make you understand how real business world is and let you find your interest/strength as well.
Updated
Andreas’s Answer
Hi Abdullah,
Getting nervous during interview is normal, many people experienced it as well, including myself.
Like anything you do in life, the more practice you do the better the result would be.
Also remind yourself that when a company decided to interview you, they already like what they see on your resume.
They just want to know more about you, so be yourself.
Getting nervous during interview is normal, many people experienced it as well, including myself.
Like anything you do in life, the more practice you do the better the result would be.
Also remind yourself that when a company decided to interview you, they already like what they see on your resume.
They just want to know more about you, so be yourself.
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Hi Abdullah,
When I first started college I was also nervous for interviews, meeting new people, and giving presentations in front of large groups. A group I recommend getting involved with if they are available on campus is a professional business fraternity. I joined my second semester of my freshman year and it changed my college experience. In our fraternity we do mock interviews with each other, learn how to set up Linked In accounts, and network with our alumni who are working in different industries within businesses. I have become much more outgoing and comfortable with interviews since I have friends to practice with and learn from.
I would also recommend working with a career coach. At my college we have a career services department where career coaches specialize in different majors. They are super beneficial when looking for internships, building a resume, and preparing for interviews.
Joining a business fraternity and working with a career coach are great ways to put yourself out there and get more comfortable with public speaking and interviews. Hope these suggestions are helpful!
When I first started college I was also nervous for interviews, meeting new people, and giving presentations in front of large groups. A group I recommend getting involved with if they are available on campus is a professional business fraternity. I joined my second semester of my freshman year and it changed my college experience. In our fraternity we do mock interviews with each other, learn how to set up Linked In accounts, and network with our alumni who are working in different industries within businesses. I have become much more outgoing and comfortable with interviews since I have friends to practice with and learn from.
I would also recommend working with a career coach. At my college we have a career services department where career coaches specialize in different majors. They are super beneficial when looking for internships, building a resume, and preparing for interviews.
Joining a business fraternity and working with a career coach are great ways to put yourself out there and get more comfortable with public speaking and interviews. Hope these suggestions are helpful!
Updated
N’s Answer
Hi Abdullah,
I am glad that you have applied to universities and have taken the first step in your higher education. Most of the time students change their majors while in college until they figure out what they really like to do and what they enjoy. Consumer Psychology is an interesting career and there are many ways to get to it. Marketing, Behavioral economics, and even data analytics can get you there but every major has a different rout and requirement. In my experience business school is a great place to start. You should research the schools that you are being admitted to and try to meet some students and faculty there. Every business school is unique and prepare students with a broad range of knowledge. But you should really look into specific concentrations that those schools have. I believe that you cannot got wrong with a business degree especially if you concentrate on something next to it such as consumer psych, marketing, data analysis or accounting and information systems. Keep in mind that once you start in college you may change your major and study something completely different which is still ok :)
I am glad that you have applied to universities and have taken the first step in your higher education. Most of the time students change their majors while in college until they figure out what they really like to do and what they enjoy. Consumer Psychology is an interesting career and there are many ways to get to it. Marketing, Behavioral economics, and even data analytics can get you there but every major has a different rout and requirement. In my experience business school is a great place to start. You should research the schools that you are being admitted to and try to meet some students and faculty there. Every business school is unique and prepare students with a broad range of knowledge. But you should really look into specific concentrations that those schools have. I believe that you cannot got wrong with a business degree especially if you concentrate on something next to it such as consumer psych, marketing, data analysis or accounting and information systems. Keep in mind that once you start in college you may change your major and study something completely different which is still ok :)
Updated
Kirby’s Answer
Hi! I would recommend utilizing the career services your college offers. There you can do mock interviews and go through professionalism training to get better at interviewing, talking to business personnel, and learn professional skills. Those skills are mastered through practice so it is best to expose yourself early and often! Next, in terms of majors, you could double-major in business and psychology to cover both aspects of your interests. And I think that with going to college, your social skills will expand greatly. Just be confident in yourself!
Hope this helps.
Hope this helps.
Updated
Stan’s Answer
Hi Abdullah,
Everyone has provided valuable advice on areas to focus on in college. Remember to keep your focus, and never loose that desire to learn and test yourself. You will be pleasantly surprise at what you can accomplish with a laser focus.
I feel your pain regarding interviews / presentations / public speaking. You know..when your voice cracks...you sound like a Disney character.......worst of all .. .that awkward feeling that the other persons is looking you with a "criticize or judgement like" look. I've been through all of it.
No matter what, nothing beats practice. You can't form the good habit without practicing. The tips from the other contributors are great ideas. Please take note of it.
With that said, the key to overcome this is your ability to understand what triggers the nerves, anxiety, drawing blanks, cracking voice, etc. I bet if I sit down with you, 1 on 1, and you present your ideas to me at Starbucks, you will shine. But when you are in these other situations, something changes. I mean physically (brain and body movements).
I found that my receptors / sensors in my brain go haywire in certain situations, and it caused these undesirable reactions to occur. I had to learn what triggered what reaction by situation. Then retrain it or managed it. It was hard and tested my patience. But it can be done.
For me until I discovered this, I could only get so much value out of practicing. I called this my "yips", and like a golf swing or pitching, these are influenced by your brain.
I hope this helps. Good luck.
Stan N.
Everyone has provided valuable advice on areas to focus on in college. Remember to keep your focus, and never loose that desire to learn and test yourself. You will be pleasantly surprise at what you can accomplish with a laser focus.
I feel your pain regarding interviews / presentations / public speaking. You know..when your voice cracks...you sound like a Disney character.......worst of all .. .that awkward feeling that the other persons is looking you with a "criticize or judgement like" look. I've been through all of it.
No matter what, nothing beats practice. You can't form the good habit without practicing. The tips from the other contributors are great ideas. Please take note of it.
With that said, the key to overcome this is your ability to understand what triggers the nerves, anxiety, drawing blanks, cracking voice, etc. I bet if I sit down with you, 1 on 1, and you present your ideas to me at Starbucks, you will shine. But when you are in these other situations, something changes. I mean physically (brain and body movements).
I found that my receptors / sensors in my brain go haywire in certain situations, and it caused these undesirable reactions to occur. I had to learn what triggered what reaction by situation. Then retrain it or managed it. It was hard and tested my patience. But it can be done.
For me until I discovered this, I could only get so much value out of practicing. I called this my "yips", and like a golf swing or pitching, these are influenced by your brain.
I hope this helps. Good luck.
Stan N.
Updated
Simeon’s Answer
You'll find that most people out there don't thrive off of being in interviews in presentations. You're not alone! You can get practice at ToastMasters group events if you're looking for peers to help you. Marketing is a great route, but speak with your professors about how to get into customer analytics. You might need to consider specific internships to help you down that path. Once you're in the career field, you have the freedom to find positions that aren't as socially intense.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Abdullah!
Guide to Effective Job Hunting
To optimize your job hunt, it's crucial to explore different platforms, thereby increasing the likelihood of securing an ideal job. Here's a comprehensive guide to the best resources for job hunting:
1. Digital Job Boards
Digital job boards are a favorite among job seekers, providing a collection of job opportunities from diverse companies and sectors. Users can customize their search based on location, job category, and other preferences.
Indeed: This platform is a global leader in job search, boasting millions of job advertisements from a plethora of websites. It offers the convenience of uploading resumes and applying directly via the platform.
LinkedIn: More than just a professional networking site, LinkedIn's powerful job search tool matches users with jobs that align with their profiles and connections. It also gives insights into company culture and employee experiences.
Glassdoor: Renowned for its company evaluations and salary data, Glassdoor also hosts job vacancies. It allows users to investigate potential employers while applying for jobs.
2. Corporate Websites
Many businesses prefer to advertise job vacancies directly on their websites, attracting candidates with a specific interest in their company.
Company Career Pages: Regularly checking the career section of a company's website can reveal exclusive job posts not available on third-party sites. Consider subscribing to alerts if possible.
3. Employment Agencies
Employment agencies can be instrumental in your job search. They often have access to undisclosed positions and offer personalized support.
Staffing Firms: Agencies such as Robert Half or Adecco excel in pairing candidates with suitable temporary or permanent roles across various sectors.
Sector-Specific Recruiters: Some recruiters specialize in particular industries (e.g., tech, healthcare), offering opportunities that match your skills and experience.
4. Networking
Networking continues to be a highly effective job search strategy. Cultivating relationships within your industry can lead to recommendations and exclusive information about vacancies.
Professional Associations: Membership in industry-specific organizations can open up networking opportunities through events, webinars, and forums where members exchange job leads.
Informational Interviews: Connecting with professionals in your field for informational interviews can provide insights into potential vacancies while growing your network.
5. Social Media Platforms
Social media has emerged as a vital tool for job hunting.
Twitter & Facebook Groups: Numerous companies advertise job vacancies on their social media profiles or within groups dedicated to specific industries or regions.
Reddit Communities: Subreddits like r/jobs or r/careerguidance offer advice and occasionally share leads on job vacancies.
6. Community Resources
Community resources such as community centers or libraries often display job advertisements on notice boards or host job fairs that bring employers and potential employees together.
Job Fairs & Expos: Participating in local job fairs allows you to interact with multiple employers at once, simplifying the exploration of diverse opportunities.
Community Organizations: Non-profit organizations often offer job seekers resources such as workshops, resume help, and connections with local businesses seeking to hire.
By leveraging these varied platforms—digital boards, corporate websites, employment agencies, networking opportunities, social media, and community resources—you can boost your chances of landing a job that aligns with your career aspirations.
Confidence in answer: 95%
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Indeed
A top global job search engine that compiles listings from various sources, including company websites and other job boards.
LinkedIn
A professional networking platform that not only connects professionals but also serves as a significant resource for job hunting through its vast database of listings.
Glassdoor
A platform renowned for its in-depth company reviews, which also features a wide range of current job postings across various industries.
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Guide to Effective Job Hunting
To optimize your job hunt, it's crucial to explore different platforms, thereby increasing the likelihood of securing an ideal job. Here's a comprehensive guide to the best resources for job hunting:
1. Digital Job Boards
Digital job boards are a favorite among job seekers, providing a collection of job opportunities from diverse companies and sectors. Users can customize their search based on location, job category, and other preferences.
Indeed: This platform is a global leader in job search, boasting millions of job advertisements from a plethora of websites. It offers the convenience of uploading resumes and applying directly via the platform.
LinkedIn: More than just a professional networking site, LinkedIn's powerful job search tool matches users with jobs that align with their profiles and connections. It also gives insights into company culture and employee experiences.
Glassdoor: Renowned for its company evaluations and salary data, Glassdoor also hosts job vacancies. It allows users to investigate potential employers while applying for jobs.
2. Corporate Websites
Many businesses prefer to advertise job vacancies directly on their websites, attracting candidates with a specific interest in their company.
Company Career Pages: Regularly checking the career section of a company's website can reveal exclusive job posts not available on third-party sites. Consider subscribing to alerts if possible.
3. Employment Agencies
Employment agencies can be instrumental in your job search. They often have access to undisclosed positions and offer personalized support.
Staffing Firms: Agencies such as Robert Half or Adecco excel in pairing candidates with suitable temporary or permanent roles across various sectors.
Sector-Specific Recruiters: Some recruiters specialize in particular industries (e.g., tech, healthcare), offering opportunities that match your skills and experience.
4. Networking
Networking continues to be a highly effective job search strategy. Cultivating relationships within your industry can lead to recommendations and exclusive information about vacancies.
Professional Associations: Membership in industry-specific organizations can open up networking opportunities through events, webinars, and forums where members exchange job leads.
Informational Interviews: Connecting with professionals in your field for informational interviews can provide insights into potential vacancies while growing your network.
5. Social Media Platforms
Social media has emerged as a vital tool for job hunting.
Twitter & Facebook Groups: Numerous companies advertise job vacancies on their social media profiles or within groups dedicated to specific industries or regions.
Reddit Communities: Subreddits like r/jobs or r/careerguidance offer advice and occasionally share leads on job vacancies.
6. Community Resources
Community resources such as community centers or libraries often display job advertisements on notice boards or host job fairs that bring employers and potential employees together.
Job Fairs & Expos: Participating in local job fairs allows you to interact with multiple employers at once, simplifying the exploration of diverse opportunities.
Community Organizations: Non-profit organizations often offer job seekers resources such as workshops, resume help, and connections with local businesses seeking to hire.
By leveraging these varied platforms—digital boards, corporate websites, employment agencies, networking opportunities, social media, and community resources—you can boost your chances of landing a job that aligns with your career aspirations.
Confidence in answer: 95%
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Indeed
A top global job search engine that compiles listings from various sources, including company websites and other job boards.
A professional networking platform that not only connects professionals but also serves as a significant resource for job hunting through its vast database of listings.
Glassdoor
A platform renowned for its in-depth company reviews, which also features a wide range of current job postings across various industries.
Stay Blessed!
JC.
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