37 answers
Audrey
Student
New Orleans, Louisiana
1
Question
Asked
2663 views
I am 15 years old and I feel like I should have some idea of what I should do or be in the future. I feel like I am not good at anything. Any ideas on how I should figure out?
I am 15, I make good grades (4.6 gpa), im in all honors and AP courses, im athletic, im tall and skinny, i play travel sports all year round, I was a spirit leader last year, im full of energy, i have adhd, i am nervous about presenting in large crowds but i can talk to large crowds, i take latin, im good at science (kinda bad when in comes to physics though), im in love with high fashion, im naturally good at algebra (meh at geometry) not the best writer, LOVE to travel ( i always wanna move to a new place so id love a job that would allow me to travel) im very creative and good at improvising. :) thanks #fashion #sports-management #art #college #unsure #future #travel #chef #technology #medicine
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37 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1617
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Audrey the first thing to consider when picking a major is what you like to do?
By the time you graduate high school you’ll have enough information and experience from your classes to figure out what you might or might not be interested in pursuing. It's one of the first big independent decisions of your academic life. Most likely your parents have hammered into you, choosing a major in college is an important decision. It's important to listen to your parents' concerns and advice. However, it's important for you to remember it's ultimately your major. You will have to do the work and ultimately leverage that major as you transition into the workforce.
WHAT ARE YOUR INTERESTS?
• LIST 10 THINGS YOU LOVE – Listing what you love doing, both inside or outside the classroom, is a great way to see possible paths you can take. If you enjoy art and drawing but you’re also interested in technology, consider majoring in graphic design. If you’re into business and traveling, investigate majoring in international business.
• STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES – Figuring out your strengths and weaknesses can help you assess what kind of major to go into. For example, if public speaking isn’t really your thing, you might want to avoid majors that could lead to careers like being a news anchor or spokesperson. You can also take your weaknesses and build on them in college. If public speaking is something you want to improve, go ahead and take a speech class. You might love it!
• ADVISERS – The best source of college advice is your school counselor. They’ve helped lots of students who are making the same decisions you are. Your school counselor can tell you more about college majors and program offerings.
• PROFESSIONALS – You can also reach out to professionals working in the field you’re interested in. They can talk to you about how they got from college to where they are now. Whether they’re your parents, guardians, family members, or people you interact with professionally, set up a time to interview them. Be prepared with a set of questions to ask.
WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER GOALS?
After digging into what you’re interested in and potential careers options, it’s time to think about your goals and your future career—and how easy or how hard it might be to find employment. If you have a specific career goal in mind, you might need to pick your major or program in advance, sometimes as early as when you’re applying to college. It’s also good to know what degree you’ll need for the field that interests you.
1. FASHION DESIGNER – Clothes of different cuts, sizes, and fabrics don’t just magically drape themselves on the human body. To create the initial pattern, a designer must craft a 3-D garment on 2-D fabric, which requires a knowledge of geometry. Of course, the garment has to fit the model in all the right places and be scaled up appropriately for different sizes, which means it also involves algebra and arithmetic. And in order to make a profit, the designer has to calculate the cost of the fabric and labor, then determine how much he or she should charge for a piece of clothing.
• SALARY OUTLOOK – The average Fashion Designer I salary in the United States is $55,000 as of May 28, 2020, but the range typically falls between $45,000 and $65,000. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
2.) CARTOGRAPHER – Back in the days of the explorers, cartographers made maps using sundials, compasses, and telescopes, pinpointing and drawing out different locations with all the information available to them (which, in the early days of mapmaking, wasn’t very much). Today, cartographers use aerial imagery and digital databases to make maps, sometimes indicating three dimensions on paper or a screen. Even though computers now help with many calculations, cartographers need to know algebra, calculus, trigonometry, geology, and statistics.
• SALARY OUTLOOK – The average Cartographer salary in the United States is $60,000 as of May 28, 2020, but the salary range typically falls between $55,000 and $75,000. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
3.) CORPORATE CONSULTANT – Companies regularly hire consultants to offer insight and advice on how to fix complex problems in their business and industry. The main skill required for consulting is to have specialized knowledge in a particular field. Since this knowledge is so exclusive, a consultant is likely to have clients dispersed across the country, and often across the globe. Travel is integral to this job since close relationships with clients are important for maintaining working partnerships. For people who are social and love to travel, this job is an ideal way to see the globe while earning a great income.
• SALARY OUTLOOK – The average Consultant salary in the United States is $80,000 as of May 28, 2020. The range for our most popular Consultant positions (listed below) typically falls between $69,000 and $115,000. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession.
4.) AU PAIR – A classic way to travel, learn a language and experience a new culture, working as an au pair won't earn you big bucks but will provide you with a roof over your head, food and plenty of time to explore. Au pairs are needed all over the world and work is often part time. Some experience in childcare is beneficial but a personality match and positive attitude will be far more of a deal maker when searching for a family. Numerous jobs around the world makeg it easy to string contracts together to work your way around the globe.
• SALARY OUTLOOK – The average Au Pair salary in the United States is $30,000 as of May 28, 2020, but the salary range typically falls between $25,500 and $45,000. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
5.) FLIGHT ATTENDANT – One of the best jobs that allow you to travel is being a flight attendant. Most flight attendants start out in the United States initially, before being allowed to operate longer flights that hit travel destinations such as Japan, Canada, and Southeast Asia. You’ll travel on stunning aircrafts to different countries all while earning a nice income and good benefits. Skills such as speaking a foreign language and CPR training are also highly valued by airline hiring managers. Many airlines post their job opportunities directly on their own websites and it’s useful to pick an airline which operates lots of flights from your home airport to limit your commute time on flight days.
• SALARY OUTLOOK – The average Flight Attendant salary in the United States is $77,000 as of May 28, 2020, but the range typically falls between $62,500 and $95,500. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
Remember Audrey, though this is an important decision, it is not etched in stone. If you start taking classes within your major and find you’re not enjoying them, switch classes or start trying classes in another major immediately. In fact, about two-thirds of undergraduates switch their major at least once, so keep that in mind as you take classes your first year.
Hope this was Helpful Audrey
By the time you graduate high school you’ll have enough information and experience from your classes to figure out what you might or might not be interested in pursuing. It's one of the first big independent decisions of your academic life. Most likely your parents have hammered into you, choosing a major in college is an important decision. It's important to listen to your parents' concerns and advice. However, it's important for you to remember it's ultimately your major. You will have to do the work and ultimately leverage that major as you transition into the workforce.
WHAT ARE YOUR INTERESTS?
• LIST 10 THINGS YOU LOVE – Listing what you love doing, both inside or outside the classroom, is a great way to see possible paths you can take. If you enjoy art and drawing but you’re also interested in technology, consider majoring in graphic design. If you’re into business and traveling, investigate majoring in international business.
• STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES – Figuring out your strengths and weaknesses can help you assess what kind of major to go into. For example, if public speaking isn’t really your thing, you might want to avoid majors that could lead to careers like being a news anchor or spokesperson. You can also take your weaknesses and build on them in college. If public speaking is something you want to improve, go ahead and take a speech class. You might love it!
• ADVISERS – The best source of college advice is your school counselor. They’ve helped lots of students who are making the same decisions you are. Your school counselor can tell you more about college majors and program offerings.
• PROFESSIONALS – You can also reach out to professionals working in the field you’re interested in. They can talk to you about how they got from college to where they are now. Whether they’re your parents, guardians, family members, or people you interact with professionally, set up a time to interview them. Be prepared with a set of questions to ask.
WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER GOALS?
After digging into what you’re interested in and potential careers options, it’s time to think about your goals and your future career—and how easy or how hard it might be to find employment. If you have a specific career goal in mind, you might need to pick your major or program in advance, sometimes as early as when you’re applying to college. It’s also good to know what degree you’ll need for the field that interests you.
1. FASHION DESIGNER – Clothes of different cuts, sizes, and fabrics don’t just magically drape themselves on the human body. To create the initial pattern, a designer must craft a 3-D garment on 2-D fabric, which requires a knowledge of geometry. Of course, the garment has to fit the model in all the right places and be scaled up appropriately for different sizes, which means it also involves algebra and arithmetic. And in order to make a profit, the designer has to calculate the cost of the fabric and labor, then determine how much he or she should charge for a piece of clothing.
• SALARY OUTLOOK – The average Fashion Designer I salary in the United States is $55,000 as of May 28, 2020, but the range typically falls between $45,000 and $65,000. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
2.) CARTOGRAPHER – Back in the days of the explorers, cartographers made maps using sundials, compasses, and telescopes, pinpointing and drawing out different locations with all the information available to them (which, in the early days of mapmaking, wasn’t very much). Today, cartographers use aerial imagery and digital databases to make maps, sometimes indicating three dimensions on paper or a screen. Even though computers now help with many calculations, cartographers need to know algebra, calculus, trigonometry, geology, and statistics.
• SALARY OUTLOOK – The average Cartographer salary in the United States is $60,000 as of May 28, 2020, but the salary range typically falls between $55,000 and $75,000. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
3.) CORPORATE CONSULTANT – Companies regularly hire consultants to offer insight and advice on how to fix complex problems in their business and industry. The main skill required for consulting is to have specialized knowledge in a particular field. Since this knowledge is so exclusive, a consultant is likely to have clients dispersed across the country, and often across the globe. Travel is integral to this job since close relationships with clients are important for maintaining working partnerships. For people who are social and love to travel, this job is an ideal way to see the globe while earning a great income.
• SALARY OUTLOOK – The average Consultant salary in the United States is $80,000 as of May 28, 2020. The range for our most popular Consultant positions (listed below) typically falls between $69,000 and $115,000. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession.
4.) AU PAIR – A classic way to travel, learn a language and experience a new culture, working as an au pair won't earn you big bucks but will provide you with a roof over your head, food and plenty of time to explore. Au pairs are needed all over the world and work is often part time. Some experience in childcare is beneficial but a personality match and positive attitude will be far more of a deal maker when searching for a family. Numerous jobs around the world makeg it easy to string contracts together to work your way around the globe.
• SALARY OUTLOOK – The average Au Pair salary in the United States is $30,000 as of May 28, 2020, but the salary range typically falls between $25,500 and $45,000. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
5.) FLIGHT ATTENDANT – One of the best jobs that allow you to travel is being a flight attendant. Most flight attendants start out in the United States initially, before being allowed to operate longer flights that hit travel destinations such as Japan, Canada, and Southeast Asia. You’ll travel on stunning aircrafts to different countries all while earning a nice income and good benefits. Skills such as speaking a foreign language and CPR training are also highly valued by airline hiring managers. Many airlines post their job opportunities directly on their own websites and it’s useful to pick an airline which operates lots of flights from your home airport to limit your commute time on flight days.
• SALARY OUTLOOK – The average Flight Attendant salary in the United States is $77,000 as of May 28, 2020, but the range typically falls between $62,500 and $95,500. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
Remember Audrey, though this is an important decision, it is not etched in stone. If you start taking classes within your major and find you’re not enjoying them, switch classes or start trying classes in another major immediately. In fact, about two-thirds of undergraduates switch their major at least once, so keep that in mind as you take classes your first year.
Hope this was Helpful Audrey
This is the most thorough answer I've ever had to a question in my life :) I feel like I should have paid you for it ahaha. Thank you so much this was extremely helpful and thank you for taking the time to write out such a long detailed response. You're pretty good at this whole answering questions thing :) have a good day
Audrey
Thank You Audrey, It was my Pleasure. Build your own dreams, or someone else will hire you to build theirs. Keep reaching for the Stars.
Doc Frick
Thank You Gabrielle. “At the end of the day it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished… it’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.” – Denzel Washington
Doc Frick
These are great suggestions so I didn't want to make an entire new post. What I did want to say is that it is okay to now know what you want to do and it is also okay to do different things over the course of your life. A professor once told me that having 5 careers in your lifetime is healthy and a reflection that you are speaking to your passions. I did a major career change when I was 35. It wasn't that I didn't like what I I was doing up to then, but I wanted to feed other passions. So it is okay to not have the answers right now.
Stacey Taylor
Thank You Stacey. “Alone, we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
Doc Frick
Thank You Meighan. Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. We vote in elections very four years, but when we volunteer, we vote every day about the kind of community we want to live in.
Doc Frick
Gabi Goyette
Marketing
1
Answer
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Gabi’s Answer
Hi Audrey,
First off, most people do not know what they want to do when they're 15, so you are not alone in that! It sounds like you have a lot of interests and there are a lot of careers that would bring you joy. I would recommend exploring your interests even more and start building skills in things that you're curious about and that excite you. Also remember that when picking a career, it's not only important to think about what you would be good at and what would be fun for you, but also what will be good for your mental health and happiness in the long term.
Some questions you can ask yourself...
-How important is salary to you vs. something potentially more fun/glamorous but lower paying?
-If you're interested in a creative career, will turning your creative passion into work make it less enjoyable for you?
-Do you want to be your own boss or work for someone?
-How important is a good work environment. What does a good work environment look like to you?
-What does the career path look like? Where would I start? Where would my end goal be?
-What education is needed for this career path?
-What would my day to day look like?
-What skills are important for someone in that career?
-What companies and/or industries would I be working in? Which ones interest me? Would I like working for them?
-Is this career path growing or is hiring beginning to slow down in this area?
Now is your time to explore and figure out what interests you! There's lots of time to decide. Some people end up even doing full career switches way after college. Sounds like you're on the right track and probably farther ahead than a lot of other people your age by asking these questions now.
Hope you have a good summer!
Gabi
List out all the careers you want to explore
List the things that are most important to you in a job. Then prioritize them by numerical importance.
As you research different careers, score those career options based on your prioritized numbers.
Take online classes (Masterclass, Lynda, YouTube, etc.) to learn about careers and build technical skills
First off, most people do not know what they want to do when they're 15, so you are not alone in that! It sounds like you have a lot of interests and there are a lot of careers that would bring you joy. I would recommend exploring your interests even more and start building skills in things that you're curious about and that excite you. Also remember that when picking a career, it's not only important to think about what you would be good at and what would be fun for you, but also what will be good for your mental health and happiness in the long term.
Some questions you can ask yourself...
-How important is salary to you vs. something potentially more fun/glamorous but lower paying?
-If you're interested in a creative career, will turning your creative passion into work make it less enjoyable for you?
-Do you want to be your own boss or work for someone?
-How important is a good work environment. What does a good work environment look like to you?
-What does the career path look like? Where would I start? Where would my end goal be?
-What education is needed for this career path?
-What would my day to day look like?
-What skills are important for someone in that career?
-What companies and/or industries would I be working in? Which ones interest me? Would I like working for them?
-Is this career path growing or is hiring beginning to slow down in this area?
Now is your time to explore and figure out what interests you! There's lots of time to decide. Some people end up even doing full career switches way after college. Sounds like you're on the right track and probably farther ahead than a lot of other people your age by asking these questions now.
Hope you have a good summer!
Gabi
Gabi recommends the following next steps:
Jing Wang
software engineer manager
3
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jing’s Answer
Hi Audrey,
There are a lot of professions that allow you to work remotely so you can still enjoy travel and pursuit your other passions. For example, a lot of tech companies now allowing employees in engineering, data scientist, business analysis, and product management functions to work remotely. Without the limitation of work location and with the good compensation you can easily enjoy the lifestyle you are describing.
Good luck!
There are a lot of professions that allow you to work remotely so you can still enjoy travel and pursuit your other passions. For example, a lot of tech companies now allowing employees in engineering, data scientist, business analysis, and product management functions to work remotely. Without the limitation of work location and with the good compensation you can easily enjoy the lifestyle you are describing.
Good luck!
Thank you for the ideas!!
Audrey
A common term for that is Digital Nomad. It's pretty cool.
Sarah Pederson
Ankita Bendre
Go to Market Strategies
1
Answer
Jersey City, New Jersey
Updated
Ankita’s Answer
Hi Audrey,
A lot of people have given you some great advise. I would like to add my personal experience (i.e. what has helped me) and share that with you. I think its great that you have started to list out areas that you are good/passionate at and areas where you can improve/not so passionate about. In my career i have always taken a Bottom up approach meaning i have a list of my skills, competencies, passions and interests. i then map those to some of the industries or areas that i may be interested in (its also ok to be industry agnostic). Once you have this list you can search for roles or keywords on Linkedln or other job side and see the job descriptions that come up and apply to roles that are a good mix - i.e. where you can showcase some of your existing skills and also have an opportunity to learn and grow. Lastly, i also think its a trial and error process, the more your try out new things you will get a sense of what you actually like vs. what you do not like which in the long run will help you narrow down you career search.
Good Luck and i am certain you are going t do great.
A lot of people have given you some great advise. I would like to add my personal experience (i.e. what has helped me) and share that with you. I think its great that you have started to list out areas that you are good/passionate at and areas where you can improve/not so passionate about. In my career i have always taken a Bottom up approach meaning i have a list of my skills, competencies, passions and interests. i then map those to some of the industries or areas that i may be interested in (its also ok to be industry agnostic). Once you have this list you can search for roles or keywords on Linkedln or other job side and see the job descriptions that come up and apply to roles that are a good mix - i.e. where you can showcase some of your existing skills and also have an opportunity to learn and grow. Lastly, i also think its a trial and error process, the more your try out new things you will get a sense of what you actually like vs. what you do not like which in the long run will help you narrow down you career search.
Good Luck and i am certain you are going t do great.
Melanie Guarino
Executive Assistant
4
Answers
Concord, California
Updated
Melanie’s Answer
I think that a career in Hospitality Management would be great for you. You sound very creative and friendly. You would feel fulfilled making people's day/ creating memorable experiences.
I would be a little concerned about the direction of the industry because of the concerns around the pandemic so my advice would be to also come up with one more option as a back up to study. A business management degree could be good, and maybe you can use that to work at non-profits or get into philanthropic work.
I would be a little concerned about the direction of the industry because of the concerns around the pandemic so my advice would be to also come up with one more option as a back up to study. A business management degree could be good, and maybe you can use that to work at non-profits or get into philanthropic work.
Thank you for the idea and for answering :)
Audrey
Deeksha Gupta
Data Science Intern
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Deeksha’s Answer
To be honest, it is very natural to not know what your goals are at age 15. I think you have a sufficient time of 3 years to figure out. I would suggest you to explore yourself for 3 years till the time you are 18. If you like travelling so try to figure out what kind of places do you like. If you enjoy trekking or mountainous areas, then you can start your profession in trekking. If you like luxury travelling then you can be a part of Hotel management, travel blogger etc. I think you have plenty of time to explore your hobbies and finalize the things you really want in your life.
Enjoy your teenage years
Keep exploring different sports, different places
Make a diary of your daily experiences
List down thing which you really enjoy
Deeksha recommends the following next steps:
David Hou
Technical Writing Intern
4
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
David’s Answer
I'll be blunt. You shouldn't know what you have to do for the rest of your life at 15.
Explore. Learn. Absorb as much as you can from the people around you.
Don't worry about finding the perfect career, although thinking about it can't hurt. And honestly, you may not find something "perfect."
One thing I would suggest is to not think about it so much as to go on a platform such as this.
I'm 19 and I still am unsure what I want to do. BUT - I know more than when I did at 15. I spent the four years in between having an open mind, learning about things I liked. That said, don't expect it to go swimmingly - everyone goes through ups and downs. Good luck! And take some time off careervillage!
Explore. Learn. Absorb as much as you can from the people around you.
Don't worry about finding the perfect career, although thinking about it can't hurt. And honestly, you may not find something "perfect."
One thing I would suggest is to not think about it so much as to go on a platform such as this.
I'm 19 and I still am unsure what I want to do. BUT - I know more than when I did at 15. I spent the four years in between having an open mind, learning about things I liked. That said, don't expect it to go swimmingly - everyone goes through ups and downs. Good luck! And take some time off careervillage!
Scott Gabriel
Chef. Gm.
3
Answers
Orion charter Township, Michigan
Updated
Scott’s Answer
With what you like and how you describe yourself think hotel. Resort management Creating events working with chefs florists. Event planners. Lots of opportunity for travel. In fact that is a positive in your favor that you will move and travel.
It's a shorter college stint so you won't be saddlec with large debt.
Being in new Orleans this is a natural. Or go-to the casinos in lake charles
Do an apprenticechip with a event planner or great chef.
It's a shorter college stint so you won't be saddlec with large debt.
Being in new Orleans this is a natural. Or go-to the casinos in lake charles
Scott recommends the following next steps:
Those are good ideas! Thanks for answering :)
Audrey
Manu G
Engineering
4
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Manu’s Answer
Here are some ways to think about:
1. What are you good at? (Skills, grades etc)
2. What are you interested in? (passion)
3. What are your wants in life (you mentioned you love to travel)
Every career comes with its own set of things that you "have" to do, and possibly things that you "love" to do. Try to find the latter, and you'll choose your career. As they say, "Find a job that you love, and you dont have to work a day"
Btw, you are still young. You have plenty of time to find your calling... Keep looking, keep trying. Good luck!
1. What are you good at? (Skills, grades etc)
2. What are you interested in? (passion)
3. What are your wants in life (you mentioned you love to travel)
Every career comes with its own set of things that you "have" to do, and possibly things that you "love" to do. Try to find the latter, and you'll choose your career. As they say, "Find a job that you love, and you dont have to work a day"
Btw, you are still young. You have plenty of time to find your calling... Keep looking, keep trying. Good luck!
Thank you for your insight :)
Audrey
Shara Jurentkuff Dahl
2
Answers
Updated
Shara’s Answer
Hi there! If travel is important to you, you may want to pursue a career in marketing events. It allows you to be creative and from my experience, you are able to build your career within a team, so that should help you with some of the anxiety that comes with speaking to groups. You are able to also help create an event from the ground up, and then execute it with your teammates, often in very exciting places.
Praveen Kp
TAM
2
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Praveen’s Answer
HI Audrey,
Firstly at the age of 15 no one will understand ow to take the career , for that matter they will not understand what is career at all.
no human being in the world will be with out any knowledge , even you will very strong in something which might be part of your daily life .
make sure you concentrate on your strengths and also concentrate on your studies which is always very important.
I suggest you not to think so hard on yourself, i feel you are talented person with a different kind of interests..
The most important part now is to take proper guidance and decision making which will help you always.
All the very best for your future , enjoy.
Firstly at the age of 15 no one will understand ow to take the career , for that matter they will not understand what is career at all.
no human being in the world will be with out any knowledge , even you will very strong in something which might be part of your daily life .
make sure you concentrate on your strengths and also concentrate on your studies which is always very important.
I suggest you not to think so hard on yourself, i feel you are talented person with a different kind of interests..
The most important part now is to take proper guidance and decision making which will help you always.
All the very best for your future , enjoy.
Tiffany Bennett
Marketing Intern
1
Answer
Laguna Niguel, California
Updated
Tiffany’s Answer
I have struggled with this question, and I am 21 years old! I completely understand that it can be scary to "choose" a path when you're still figuring out who you are and what you enjoy. Here is what I wish I knew when I was 15.
I think that it is great that you are exploring and discovering some interests like traveling, fashion, math, and things that are highly creative! It sounds like you should just continue immersing yourself in new experiences - jobs, volunteering, clubs in school, etc! You'll find the topics that interest you/you're passionate about and what natural skills and talents you possess to help you better realize what you would be good at. For example, I realize I would potentially enjoy going into business and learning about sales when I decided to take up a job selling kitchen knives directly to people.
But please do realize that it can take a decent amount of trial and error for many to realize what they truly are interested in. So many people change their majors and careers throughout their life, and they somehow either just "fall into" something by accident, or completely change career paths. I know for me, I had to do several different internships to see what I enjoyed and didn't enjoy. And even now, I'm still not completely sure! It won't be until I do a job in the long-term that I can better understand what is truly the most interesting and appealing role to me. Right now, healthcare sales or marketing sounds appealing to me, as I've done sales and marketing internships that have helped solidify my skills and made me recognize my strengths in these areas. So, ultimately, don't be afraid to try a bunch of things and see where life takes you from each experience!
I think that it is great that you are exploring and discovering some interests like traveling, fashion, math, and things that are highly creative! It sounds like you should just continue immersing yourself in new experiences - jobs, volunteering, clubs in school, etc! You'll find the topics that interest you/you're passionate about and what natural skills and talents you possess to help you better realize what you would be good at. For example, I realize I would potentially enjoy going into business and learning about sales when I decided to take up a job selling kitchen knives directly to people.
But please do realize that it can take a decent amount of trial and error for many to realize what they truly are interested in. So many people change their majors and careers throughout their life, and they somehow either just "fall into" something by accident, or completely change career paths. I know for me, I had to do several different internships to see what I enjoyed and didn't enjoy. And even now, I'm still not completely sure! It won't be until I do a job in the long-term that I can better understand what is truly the most interesting and appealing role to me. Right now, healthcare sales or marketing sounds appealing to me, as I've done sales and marketing internships that have helped solidify my skills and made me recognize my strengths in these areas. So, ultimately, don't be afraid to try a bunch of things and see where life takes you from each experience!
Samantha Truxal
Chef
105
Answers
West Valley City, Utah
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
Its okay if you dont know what you want to be when older. You still have a little bit before u have to decide. Explore what you enjoy doing. Like if you like tinkering try taking a mechanics class. If you love to draw take an art class. If you love to play video games take coding or graphic design. The best way to find it is to look at what u enjoy doing and are passionate about.
S Brenes
Finance
1
Answer
Lake Mary, Florida
Updated
S’s Answer
Hi Audrey - Don't be so hard on yourself, you sound like a well rounded, talented person with a wide variety of interests. Deciding a career path is very difficult for most people and it takes time to figure it out. I would recommend speaking to people in different career fields that interest you and find out what they do on a day to day basis. Ask about the positives and negatives of that career field. If possible, ask to spend a day shadowing them at work. Once eligible, you should also apply for an internship in a field that interests you so you can get real life experience while still deciding on a career. This is an important decision, take your time and good luck!
Tina Sharma
Financial Analysis
20
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Tina’s Answer
To be honest 15 is the age where you are full of confusion and zeroing down to a stream of your interest is a tough job. It is always good to join something you can excel in than being a jack of all.. Good thing about current times is that you can also pursue what you like while in our time the career streams were limited to either being an engineer, doctor or management student.
Considering your interest and creativity skills, I can suggest you of below streams.
Travel blogger
Photography
Event management
Yoga instructors
Training and personality development
Motivational Speaker
Arts
Teacher/Professor.
Hotel Management/ Tourism
Fashion designing
You tuber
Wish you all the best in choosing a perfect career path and following your passion
Considering your interest and creativity skills, I can suggest you of below streams.
Travel blogger
Photography
Event management
Yoga instructors
Training and personality development
Motivational Speaker
Arts
Teacher/Professor.
Hotel Management/ Tourism
Fashion designing
You tuber
Wish you all the best in choosing a perfect career path and following your passion
Mark Tschetter
Project and Portfolio Management
26
Answers
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Updated
Mark’s Answer
A lot of good answers here but I'll add a couple points. First, be comfortable that there is not only one right answer. I've watched my kids agonize about which major to choose and which college to go to, like if they don't get it exactly right they will fail. There are many major choices or college choices that can lead to a fulfilling career.
Second, it's often hardest to start on this journey because you are staring at giant lists of career opportunities and don't know where to start. Take a career aptitude test to narrow it down (search, there are a lot available out there). Take a few versions of these tests. You'll probably start to see some patterns in their recommendations. You can dig further into the ones that appeal to you (find out what demand is like, what salaries are like, how much schooling you need). This will at least give you a start.
Second, it's often hardest to start on this journey because you are staring at giant lists of career opportunities and don't know where to start. Take a career aptitude test to narrow it down (search, there are a lot available out there). Take a few versions of these tests. You'll probably start to see some patterns in their recommendations. You can dig further into the ones that appeal to you (find out what demand is like, what salaries are like, how much schooling you need). This will at least give you a start.
Suzy Walme
Business sales and services representative
2
Answers
Roosevelt, New York
Updated
Suzy’s Answer
Audrey,
I am mom of two girls 21 and 13. My advice to you is do what you love and makes you happy, I know it sounds cliché. You are only 15 so I believe you have time to figure this out. My oldest daughter wanted to be dentist, doctor, veterinarian and dancer all before she was 17. Right now she is in her last year of college and her major clinical laboratory science. She works in a lab and absolutely loves it. I say all this to say don't worry yourself about having the right answer just stay open and continue to get phenomenal grades . I wish you a nothing but success.
I am mom of two girls 21 and 13. My advice to you is do what you love and makes you happy, I know it sounds cliché. You are only 15 so I believe you have time to figure this out. My oldest daughter wanted to be dentist, doctor, veterinarian and dancer all before she was 17. Right now she is in her last year of college and her major clinical laboratory science. She works in a lab and absolutely loves it. I say all this to say don't worry yourself about having the right answer just stay open and continue to get phenomenal grades . I wish you a nothing but success.
Shakira Johnson Ricks
Senior Workforce Analyst
5
Answers
Suffolk, Virginia
Updated
Shakira’s Answer
It is very normal to not have a clear career path at 15 years old. Never tear yourself down and say you're not good at anything, just say you haven't gotten that skill down yet .You can be good at whatever you put your mind to do . You just have to find out what skills you want to hone in on or what makes your the most excited to do. Right now you have all the time in the world to do figure out what you are interested in. And that may change over time. Understand what you may not be the best at you can become more proficient with time and practice if it is something you want to pursue. Right now, focus on doing the best in school. You may find that your interest in a particular career will become clearer in time.
Kimberly Iannarone, PHR
Human Resources
33
Answers
North Caldwell, New Jersey
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Hello, great question, it is definitely a time when you start wondering who you are going to be when you grow up or what your profession will be. First off, I just want to let you know that everyone has their own path, whether you find your life passion at 17 or 45. Second, I recommend researching professions that seem interesting to you. These can be professions you heard from others or know others in this profession or even ones mentioned in the comments above. Try writing down a pros and cons list as to what you would want in a job. For example, traveling a lot would go in the pros section. I also recommend taking a career test to narrow done some options that would work best for you and utilize your strengths. There are multiple tests out there but here is one I found: https://www.educations.com/career-test.
Good luck on your journey and hope you find a profession you fall in love with!
Good luck on your journey and hope you find a profession you fall in love with!
Gloria Ortiz
Instructional Designer
850
Answers
Irving, Texas
Updated
Gloria’s Answer
Hi Audrey.
You have a great question. And I am afraid that it is a question that you will be asking yourself a lot in your lifetime. Since you are concerned, I would say focus on what you are already do that you enjoy. What would you want to do even if you did it for free? A common answer for this might be artistic in nature. Or maybe you like to do something physical like sports, gardening, or building things. Some of what you like to do right now can become the foundation of what you could do as a career. As a young person like you, I loved to write. Right now, you still have time to sort out what you really like to do. You should try to take what you do to a new level - learn something more about it, practice it in service by volunteering, or challenge yourself to learn something new. You can go to college without knowing what you want to do for a living. College can expose you to a wider variety of job options than you had ever considered. With that in mind, I would say you should work on making sure that you can get into college. Get good grades in hard classes. Make sure to volunteer for causes that you are passionate about. Talk with people around you who work and ask them what they like about their jobs and why you should do it. You have a lot of power to get information and learn new skills right now, just by being curious.
I work as an instructional designer. I use my writing skill that i honed as a teenager into a career. I had no idea that this would be my job, but I took chances on the opportunities that came my way.
Good luck with finding your calling.
You have a great question. And I am afraid that it is a question that you will be asking yourself a lot in your lifetime. Since you are concerned, I would say focus on what you are already do that you enjoy. What would you want to do even if you did it for free? A common answer for this might be artistic in nature. Or maybe you like to do something physical like sports, gardening, or building things. Some of what you like to do right now can become the foundation of what you could do as a career. As a young person like you, I loved to write. Right now, you still have time to sort out what you really like to do. You should try to take what you do to a new level - learn something more about it, practice it in service by volunteering, or challenge yourself to learn something new. You can go to college without knowing what you want to do for a living. College can expose you to a wider variety of job options than you had ever considered. With that in mind, I would say you should work on making sure that you can get into college. Get good grades in hard classes. Make sure to volunteer for causes that you are passionate about. Talk with people around you who work and ask them what they like about their jobs and why you should do it. You have a lot of power to get information and learn new skills right now, just by being curious.
I work as an instructional designer. I use my writing skill that i honed as a teenager into a career. I had no idea that this would be my job, but I took chances on the opportunities that came my way.
Good luck with finding your calling.
Eric Yellin
Senior Art Director
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Eric’s Answer
It's totally natural to feel a bit lost at 15. Don't put too much undue pressure on yourself to have to choose a path to follow for the rest of your life.
The best thing you can do right now is to try as many different fields as possible.
Intern.
Take classes.
Try and Fail. You'll learn more from failing that succeeding.
Dive in to as much as you can. There's no reason to commit to anything at this point. And even if you've committed and tried you can always change.
When I was in High School I was 100% committed to being an actor. I trained. I studied. I poured everything into my craft. I went to a leading arts conservatory for college and pursued that career for 8 years in New York. Waiting tables and bartending to pay the bills to allow me time to audition during the day.
When I turned 30 I realized that this pursuit was not setting me up for the life I wanted with my wife. I wanted stability and a family. I took a full year to change careers by diving head first into Graphic Design. I enrolled in an intensive training program, I interned and I still worked at the restaurant to pay the bills. At the end of that year, I had a portfolio that I was proud of, some real world training under my belt and a few more years of life experience on most junior designers. I was fortunate enough to land a job that presented countless learning opportunities that taught me more than any college education could. I said yes even when I had no idea what to do. I trusted my instincts and wasn't afraid to fail. Stay open minded and you'll find your path.
The best thing you can do right now is to try as many different fields as possible.
Intern.
Take classes.
Try and Fail. You'll learn more from failing that succeeding.
Dive in to as much as you can. There's no reason to commit to anything at this point. And even if you've committed and tried you can always change.
When I was in High School I was 100% committed to being an actor. I trained. I studied. I poured everything into my craft. I went to a leading arts conservatory for college and pursued that career for 8 years in New York. Waiting tables and bartending to pay the bills to allow me time to audition during the day.
When I turned 30 I realized that this pursuit was not setting me up for the life I wanted with my wife. I wanted stability and a family. I took a full year to change careers by diving head first into Graphic Design. I enrolled in an intensive training program, I interned and I still worked at the restaurant to pay the bills. At the end of that year, I had a portfolio that I was proud of, some real world training under my belt and a few more years of life experience on most junior designers. I was fortunate enough to land a job that presented countless learning opportunities that taught me more than any college education could. I said yes even when I had no idea what to do. I trusted my instincts and wasn't afraid to fail. Stay open minded and you'll find your path.
Krysten Adams
Corporate Executive Chef
2
Answers
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Updated
Krysten’s Answer
Audrey,
It sounds to me like you have many interests AND skills! Just because some of them do not have a specific use right now, doesn't mean that they wont be useful in the future!
You are only 15, do not feel pressure to figure out what you want to do right this second. Explore the world around you (well, best you can right now with the craziness we are living in). I believe that finding what most importantly makes you HAPPY is number one. Obviously money essentially makes the world go round, but what is life worth if you are doing something that makes you miserable?
Think about the things that bring you joy and make a list of them. Once you have done that, look into activities around your town that you can participate in that incorporate those things! There is so much out there that try to get people active that you probably didn't realize!
Heck, even if it isnt something you KNOW brings you joy, try something new! You are young and this is the time for you to get to know yourself! Have fun, new experiences and meet people, experience will all lead to you figuring out what you ultimately want to do with the rest of your life!
Take your time sweetheart, you got this!
Try something new
Find an activity that incorporates something you already know brings you joy
You love fashion? Find one of your local craft stores and learn to sew or another fun hobby! Enjoy :)
It sounds to me like you have many interests AND skills! Just because some of them do not have a specific use right now, doesn't mean that they wont be useful in the future!
You are only 15, do not feel pressure to figure out what you want to do right this second. Explore the world around you (well, best you can right now with the craziness we are living in). I believe that finding what most importantly makes you HAPPY is number one. Obviously money essentially makes the world go round, but what is life worth if you are doing something that makes you miserable?
Think about the things that bring you joy and make a list of them. Once you have done that, look into activities around your town that you can participate in that incorporate those things! There is so much out there that try to get people active that you probably didn't realize!
Heck, even if it isnt something you KNOW brings you joy, try something new! You are young and this is the time for you to get to know yourself! Have fun, new experiences and meet people, experience will all lead to you figuring out what you ultimately want to do with the rest of your life!
Take your time sweetheart, you got this!
Krysten recommends the following next steps:
Helen Gonzalez Bentham
Pricing
25
Answers
Panama City, Panama
Updated
Helen’s Answer
Hi Audrey,
Understand the feeling, I was in the same situation. Just, don't think you are not good at all. Sometimes the most obvious task is the one that you end up enjoying the most. Would recommend to check colleagues portfolio, check activities at your school, ask you school counselor. At the end, the best choice will be the one that makes you feel good :)
Understand the feeling, I was in the same situation. Just, don't think you are not good at all. Sometimes the most obvious task is the one that you end up enjoying the most. Would recommend to check colleagues portfolio, check activities at your school, ask you school counselor. At the end, the best choice will be the one that makes you feel good :)
Jason Ting
Product Manager
3
Answers
Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Updated
Jason’s Answer
To Be Honest I didn't know what I wanted to be when i was 15. All I had in mind was computer games and hanging out with my friends. Early education gives you the basic. However experience is the one that eventually paves the way to what you really want to do.
I studied Electrical and Communication Engineers and started my professional career as a Software Engineer and now I am in the Digital Product department of well known payment company.
So what you set out to do at the beginning may change course over the years as you gain more experience
I studied Electrical and Communication Engineers and started my professional career as a Software Engineer and now I am in the Digital Product department of well known payment company.
So what you set out to do at the beginning may change course over the years as you gain more experience
Merri Wiese
Marketing
4
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Merri’s Answer
It's not unusual to not yet know at 15 what you want to do/be in the future. While you may be surrounded by folks who've always known "what they want to be when they grow up", it's ok to be unsure (I know I was at 15, and at 21, and at 24!). You can use this time to continue to explore. You say you're not good at anything, but ask yourself why you feel that way? Are you judging yourself against someone else? Is there something that you wish you could be better at? What's keeping you from pursuing it?
Here's a time to explore! Looking at your GPA and course load, it sounds like you're smart and willing to put in the work. Try different things out. Talk to different professionals to see what their work life is like, and see if it appeals to you.
Here's a time to explore! Looking at your GPA and course load, it sounds like you're smart and willing to put in the work. Try different things out. Talk to different professionals to see what their work life is like, and see if it appeals to you.
Vincent Caputo III, CPA
Real Estate-Assurance at PwC
16
Answers
Jericho, New York
Updated
Vincent’s Answer
Hi Clarice,
You are young and time is on your side! Not many people know what they want to do as a teenager. Don't stress out, live in the moment and enjoy your life. I have friends and coworkers who have been in their industry for many years and still don’t know what they really love and are passionate about. Many people change career paths and I believe it’s about trial and error. When I was trying to figure out a career path a mentor asked me “what makes you tick in life. Is it money, is it helping people, is it prestige, is it family, etc.?” I think asking yourself this question may give you a good starting point.Best of luck!!
You are young and time is on your side! Not many people know what they want to do as a teenager. Don't stress out, live in the moment and enjoy your life. I have friends and coworkers who have been in their industry for many years and still don’t know what they really love and are passionate about. Many people change career paths and I believe it’s about trial and error. When I was trying to figure out a career path a mentor asked me “what makes you tick in life. Is it money, is it helping people, is it prestige, is it family, etc.?” I think asking yourself this question may give you a good starting point.Best of luck!!
Steve Nikolovski
Business Intelligence Tools Manager
10
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Steve’s Answer
You sound like a well rounded teenager with a bright future. When I was 15 I never dreamed I had any skills in IT! Take lots of different classes, read and research, be active socially and in school groups and just see what happens. You are fortunate you have so many choices ahead of you while possessing many talents. Enjoy discovering what is important to you in life and finding out what makes you happy!
Julian Perez
Sales
3
Answers
Grand Island, Nebraska
Updated
Julian’s Answer
Hey!!!
I felt the same way when I was in High school and I talked to my great guidance counselor and there’s a ton of online resources that will have questionnaires or you can go to your surrounding college that would have a placement program where you can answer questions and give you recommendations on what you should study and then from that point on do some research on the some of the studies they would recommend to see what peaks your interest.
Hope that Helps !!!
I felt the same way when I was in High school and I talked to my great guidance counselor and there’s a ton of online resources that will have questionnaires or you can go to your surrounding college that would have a placement program where you can answer questions and give you recommendations on what you should study and then from that point on do some research on the some of the studies they would recommend to see what peaks your interest.
Hope that Helps !!!
Kate Daniels
Painter's Apprentice
1
Answer
Saint Johns, Arizona
Updated
Kate’s Answer
I love your perception of yourself. Its good, at the same time it's harsh. You are judgemental of yourself. You see the great side and then you keep your pride down by observing the bad side or yourself. Be careful not to get an inferiority complex. Often some of the smartest, most beautiful people think they are not good enough or feel inferior to others. Remember to give yourself good positive affirmations every day, practice gratitude, and follow your heart with confidence. Do not shoot yourself down. Try to have a balance. You are great at many things, do not focus on a couple things your not good at. Remember you can always improve those things. Be humble also. Just keep yourself in a good place. A happy successful place because you are a beautiful, blessed, and loved person. I have a son who went to culinary school and became a chef in a large city.the had returned to college after an attempt at maybe becoming an attorney. I think there are so manynthings you could do with your welfare. Travel agent, airplane stewardess maybe? I have an uncle who fly leer jets for famous people. I would have loved a job as a pilot. You would get some traveling in; as a stewardess serving drinks on a plane, or a pilot. My uncle fly's leer jet for a very wealthy man who spends a lot of his life on vacation. Which I believe my uncle loves. He spent quite a but of time in Italy last year I believe. So becoming a pilot and keeping your record (driving and flying) clean could get you some awesome jobs. You could work your way into some awesome career years for when your older and getting close to retirement. Law enforcement and nursing are fabulous career choices. In my opinion I guess. Because I have an aunt who was a detective and my mom was an RN. Good retirements. Great employment opportunities. Also another great job is Semi truck driving. More employment that would give you traveling experience. Over the road driving for a couple years of your life would be interesting too. Have fun in deciding, so many awesome opportunities you have the ability to choose from. Enjoy your life, decide on a job you will enjoy also. Good afternoon to you.
Braisha Owens Mount
Fashion Designer
15
Answers
Columbus, Ohio
Updated
Braisha’s Answer
Being 15 and uncertain about your future is perfectly normal, and you're not alone. Most folks your age are in the same situation, and if you do have a clear vision, consider it a bonus, not a necessity. It's perfectly fine to be unsure at this point.
Let me share a piece of wisdom I often impart to my adult friends who are wrestling with similar doubts: If you didn't have to worry about money, what would you choose to do? What career or passion would you chase?
Take a moment to remember your dreams from when you were younger. Even though you're still young, there must have been something you aspired to be during your early school years. Embrace that dream, nourish it, and chase it with determination, no matter what others might suggest or how tough it may appear.
Focus on your dream, not the potential financial reward. The money will come in time. Prioritize the joy, the sense of purpose, and the satisfaction that comes with chasing your dream. Search within yourself and ask, "What's my dream?"
Don't just reflect on what you're skilled at, but contemplate what you genuinely want. Your dream is your guiding star, leading you towards your destiny. I hope this advice offers you some insight and encouragement.
What’s your dream
Let me share a piece of wisdom I often impart to my adult friends who are wrestling with similar doubts: If you didn't have to worry about money, what would you choose to do? What career or passion would you chase?
Take a moment to remember your dreams from when you were younger. Even though you're still young, there must have been something you aspired to be during your early school years. Embrace that dream, nourish it, and chase it with determination, no matter what others might suggest or how tough it may appear.
Focus on your dream, not the potential financial reward. The money will come in time. Prioritize the joy, the sense of purpose, and the satisfaction that comes with chasing your dream. Search within yourself and ask, "What's my dream?"
Don't just reflect on what you're skilled at, but contemplate what you genuinely want. Your dream is your guiding star, leading you towards your destiny. I hope this advice offers you some insight and encouragement.
Braisha recommends the following next steps:
Clarice Yao
Sales Manager
3
Answers
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Updated
Clarice’s Answer
To be honest, I don't think there are that many people who know what they want to do for a living when they're teenagers. I guess the best part about life is living and doing your best everyday until you figure out what excites you!
Alternatively, you can explore topics which excite you and explore career paths tied to those topics.
Alternatively, you can explore topics which excite you and explore career paths tied to those topics.
Beth Bsharah
CPA - Assurance Director
4
Answers
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Updated
Beth’s Answer
I agree with everyone else's advice that you are young and have plenty of time to decide what you want to be when you grow up. One piece of advice for the future as you start to land on a few career paths that do sound interesting to you - try to talk to individuals who are currently in the career about their day to day work and what they like/dislike about the career. I had a lot of preconceived notions about various careers based on what I had read or heard from other peers as I entered into college. If I were to go back and do things differently, I would start talking to professionals who have the career I think I want earlier (you definitely could have some of these discussions as early as high school) A simple conversation can truly help bring to life what a career truly entails (which may be different from what you thought). If you are really serious about a certain career path, you may even look for opportunities to do a job shadow or internship to get an even better understanding of the job before committing yourself fully to that career path.
Melissa Basciano
Director - Operations
6
Answers
Middletown, New Jersey
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
Not knowing what you want to do for a living, your career or future is completely normal at the age of 15... I would argue that it is even ok until you start your first internship or job that you will still most likely be unsure in some cases. I wanted to be Veterinarian and then a lawyer and ultimately landed on wanting to be an accountant as I was entering college but guess what? I did not do any of those things and I hated accounting classes in my first year of College (not passing judgment on any accountants out there - just not for me lol)
Ultimately it took my exposure and continued experiences that led me to ultimately where I am today... I work for Verizon and I am a Director of Operations where I lead a team of experts to deliver system automation and enhance the customer experience. I am passionate about leading people and driving change and efficiency... I would never have thought this is where I would be when I was still in High School, again was thinking of animals at the time.
What I will share with you is that it is important for you to explore, ask questions and not shy away from trying new things. These experiences and exposure will help you narrow down what you enjoy and what you do not, what you excel in and what you want to avoid. Don't hesitate to network and volunteer to be part of different organizations or groups. Read about different careers that are out there, take classes.
Some people do just know what they want to do and be when they grow up even at the age of 15 and they ultimately do wind up doing that course of work or career but again it is completely normal for you not to know yet as you have much to still learn and experience.
Ultimately it took my exposure and continued experiences that led me to ultimately where I am today... I work for Verizon and I am a Director of Operations where I lead a team of experts to deliver system automation and enhance the customer experience. I am passionate about leading people and driving change and efficiency... I would never have thought this is where I would be when I was still in High School, again was thinking of animals at the time.
What I will share with you is that it is important for you to explore, ask questions and not shy away from trying new things. These experiences and exposure will help you narrow down what you enjoy and what you do not, what you excel in and what you want to avoid. Don't hesitate to network and volunteer to be part of different organizations or groups. Read about different careers that are out there, take classes.
Some people do just know what they want to do and be when they grow up even at the age of 15 and they ultimately do wind up doing that course of work or career but again it is completely normal for you not to know yet as you have much to still learn and experience.
Brandon Hiatt
Sales
1
Answer
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Brandon’s Answer
Hi, Audrey -
Don't shortchange yourself and say you aren't good at anything. From what I am reading, you are a really impressive teenager. My advice is simple: continue learning and trying/experiencing new things. Don't let the pressure of 'societal norms' (e.g. knowing what you want to do and having a strict plan) paralyze you with anxiety or stress. You have plenty of life to figure out what you want to do. The reality is it can change overtime based on you changing your skills, interests, and directions in life.
Try to identify some of the key values and motivations in your life (your "why's" for living and what excites you the most) and let that guide you. Seek to learn new things, meet new people, and better yourself every day and you will be set!
Don't shortchange yourself and say you aren't good at anything. From what I am reading, you are a really impressive teenager. My advice is simple: continue learning and trying/experiencing new things. Don't let the pressure of 'societal norms' (e.g. knowing what you want to do and having a strict plan) paralyze you with anxiety or stress. You have plenty of life to figure out what you want to do. The reality is it can change overtime based on you changing your skills, interests, and directions in life.
Try to identify some of the key values and motivations in your life (your "why's" for living and what excites you the most) and let that guide you. Seek to learn new things, meet new people, and better yourself every day and you will be set!
Kaylee Satterwhite
32
Answers
Stockbridge, Georgia
Updated
Kaylee’s Answer
Hey you are still young so do not stress out too much but something that would help would to be to look up something you are interested in doing now and see if that could become a career or something similar to it. hope this helps!
Sarah Pederson
Software Test Engineer
7
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
When I was 15, all I knew was I wanted to do "Science". It's all about narrowing down as you get older. Also, you can always change it, even in your 30s!
I liked my Chem class junior year so I chose to major in Chemistry - so I could be a "Chemist" (I didn't really know what that meant). Then I didn't like it, so I switched to a double major in Physics and Engineering - so I could be an "Engineer". Then I couldn't narrow down what kind of engineer I wanted to be, so I graduated with a BS in Applied Physics, knowing I could always go back to school to get an engineering degree if I figured out what I wanted. In school, I took technical electives in Computer Science and now I'm a Software Engineer.
That all goes to show, you don't have to have it figured out yet. Learn, adapt, and change.
Your career doesn't define you, it's just what you do on weekdays. Some people live for their job, others have a job so they can live. What I mean is you can love your job and have your life revolve around it, or you can just have a job so that you can live your life. I'm in the latter category so I work to pay the bills then travel on my time off. I didn't pick a job that lets me travel.
Things I learned along the way:
- There are so many career options, most of which you haven't even thought about
- Before you pick a major, look at how much schooling people usually do. All of my Physics classmates who are Physicists went on to get their PhDs. I never wanted to do that much schooling, so I'm glad I didn't go down that path.
- Don't just think about the job, but also look at the environment/culture in the industry. If you want to be in software, the tech industry (startups in particular) is a bunch of cool nerds - there's a good chance of playing ping pong at work, but you might also work 50 hr weeks. If you want to be in service/hospitality, you make things beautiful and solve problems, but customers will yell at you. In research (aka pure science/math) you get to work on totally new things and are on the cutting edge, but you also have to write a lot of grants.
- Not everything needs a 4 year degree. For high achievers in high school, getting a bachelors degree has probably always seemed mandatory.
- Internships are great at narrowing down what you want to do. That's how I knew I didn't want to do research.
- Decide roughly what type of work you want to do. Do you want to be in STEM? It's not too hard to switch majors in your first few years and still graduate on time.
- There's no shame in taking a gap year and trying stuff. Take free online courses, do an internship, start a job you think you'd enjoy. My sister spent 10s of thousands of dollars at college trying to fit what our parents wanted her to be, now she's a dog groomer and loves it! Does she have extra money to take big trips or live in a big house? Not really. Does she love going to work every day? Absolutely. You might have to choose which matters more to you.
Take a career quiz or strengths finder - your high school guidance counselor probably has options.
Check with your parent's friends about their jobs. If any interest you, ask to shadow them. Most people will say yes.
If you want to be a creator (e.g. photographer, fashion designer, artist), Start now! There's nothing stopping you
I liked my Chem class junior year so I chose to major in Chemistry - so I could be a "Chemist" (I didn't really know what that meant). Then I didn't like it, so I switched to a double major in Physics and Engineering - so I could be an "Engineer". Then I couldn't narrow down what kind of engineer I wanted to be, so I graduated with a BS in Applied Physics, knowing I could always go back to school to get an engineering degree if I figured out what I wanted. In school, I took technical electives in Computer Science and now I'm a Software Engineer.
That all goes to show, you don't have to have it figured out yet. Learn, adapt, and change.
Your career doesn't define you, it's just what you do on weekdays. Some people live for their job, others have a job so they can live. What I mean is you can love your job and have your life revolve around it, or you can just have a job so that you can live your life. I'm in the latter category so I work to pay the bills then travel on my time off. I didn't pick a job that lets me travel.
Things I learned along the way:
- There are so many career options, most of which you haven't even thought about
- Before you pick a major, look at how much schooling people usually do. All of my Physics classmates who are Physicists went on to get their PhDs. I never wanted to do that much schooling, so I'm glad I didn't go down that path.
- Don't just think about the job, but also look at the environment/culture in the industry. If you want to be in software, the tech industry (startups in particular) is a bunch of cool nerds - there's a good chance of playing ping pong at work, but you might also work 50 hr weeks. If you want to be in service/hospitality, you make things beautiful and solve problems, but customers will yell at you. In research (aka pure science/math) you get to work on totally new things and are on the cutting edge, but you also have to write a lot of grants.
- Not everything needs a 4 year degree. For high achievers in high school, getting a bachelors degree has probably always seemed mandatory.
- Internships are great at narrowing down what you want to do. That's how I knew I didn't want to do research.
- Decide roughly what type of work you want to do. Do you want to be in STEM? It's not too hard to switch majors in your first few years and still graduate on time.
- There's no shame in taking a gap year and trying stuff. Take free online courses, do an internship, start a job you think you'd enjoy. My sister spent 10s of thousands of dollars at college trying to fit what our parents wanted her to be, now she's a dog groomer and loves it! Does she have extra money to take big trips or live in a big house? Not really. Does she love going to work every day? Absolutely. You might have to choose which matters more to you.
Sarah recommends the following next steps:
Pamela D DeVaughn
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Answers
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Pamela D’s Answer
I would start with everything you have listed about yourself. You are definitely good at a lot of things. The important question is what do you enjoy most, something you would be committed to on good and tough days. Also take time to experience different things. This will help you naturally identify which career you would like to start. Most importantly have fun doing the research.