If your in the field of Child-development, would you feel that the job you do is important or affect your day to day life in anyway?

Hi Arlease,

I am a program manager with the Girl Scouts. In my day to day job, I develop curriculum and plan events for girls in kindergarten through 12th grades. It is exciting to work for an organization that is committed to helping develop leadership skills for girls and help girls gain the skills and knowledge so that they know they are capable of doing anything they set their mind to. Similar to what you believe, it is exciting to work for an organization that is dedicated to helping and supporting girls.

Many organizations have developed a mission statement, or a statement that guides the actions of the organization. It's like a goal for what the company wants to do for the world. At the Girl Scouts, our mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. This statement drives everything we do and it is exciting to us when girls are living out this mission. I can tell you that this gives me a great sense of purpose and a sense that the work that I am doing is important. Nonprofit, education, public sector work, and other youth-serving organizations often have long hours and little pay, but the benefit, and what any teacher or nonprofit workers who believe strongly in their mission will tell you, is that it's worth it because you have a sense of purpose and pride in what you do. Often, these jobs are fulfilling because you can see the change you are making in the world come to life.

It is exciting that you are thinking about a career in child development. Often times child development or youth studies majors invite you to combine your studies with other interests, such as teaching, public policy, community activism, nonprofit management, or social work. Be sure to explore these majors, as well!

Good luck and I hope that helps!