How should I go about looking at college majors if those that I am interested in may not be the best for supporting a future family?

It's great that you are looking to the future. Your passion or talent may have a place within it to support a family. Don't be afraid to experiment with options while in High School. Volunteering at the places you enjoy may help you make a decision. Or if your school offers class credit outside of the building you could try this. I always thought I wanted to be an elementary teacher. But after a semester 'student teaching' I found that I enjoyed working in the school office, still working with the students, more than being in the classroom and responsible for the students learning. Don't be afraid to test yourself in a variety of places. Get out into your community and experience life.

I completely agree that you have to think about your future and plan for it to some degree, but don't plan your life out too much. For example, you mention supporting a family. If this is in regards to having children, you may change your desire. I knew 100% I wanted kids in high school and when I was in my 20's I realized I definitely did not want kids, so it could change for you too.

I took the path of pursuing my passion over money and security. I pursued a theater degree and then decided in my 20's that having a secure business job was more my style. I don't regret my path at all! As human beings, we change and grow and our desires change. My 20's were a major time of change because you are growing into an adult. So my final advice would be: don't worry so much about which career will give you a better financial future. Go towards what you are drawn too and be open that the path might change along the way.

Perhaps there is something out there for you which gives a balance. For example, as a teenager I had my heart set on ballet - my parents wisely said I had to finish my education as well as my dance training. They encouraged me to look at teaching dance so that I could do something I loved but still have a reliable income. Other examples are where people pursue second careers, examples include Olympic athletes and those in the Armed Forces. There is also a trend toward Portfolio Careers - see links below. The Forbes article has a great example of a travel reporter who is also a photographer and a teacher. This may be a way to do something you enjoy and supplement the financial side with other things. Also remember that may be possible to have both - I didn't pursue my dance career in the end but changed track and did science - I love my job and the people I work with and am able to support my family too. Lastly, think about motivation for study - it may be better to pick something you enjoy and stick with college, than pick something you don't like and then drop out - some subjects can be surprisingly useful in other careers - for example, I use what I learnt in drama at school when I am presenting technical stuff at work - think creatively.

Good luck with whatever direction you take.

https://www.quintcareers.com/portfolio-careers/
http://www.forbes.com/sites/learnvest/2013/02/27/portfolio-careers-is-the-latest-work-trend-right-for-you/51685e26313c

Hi Christian!

You are asking a very important question.

It is good to be concerned about your family, but the most important thing to remember is that your major and career area must be comfortable for you.

Do not select a career because you think it will pay a lot of money. There are already too many people making a lot of money who are very miserable. Don't become one of them.

Best of luck! Please keep me posted. I would like to follow your progress!