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How do I choose between careers?

How do I choose between careers? I am struggling to decide whether on not I want to go to school for engineering or veterinary science research. I am a sophomore in high school so I am trying to figure out what classes I need to take next school year.

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Linda’s Answer

Deciding on a career path is a journey... and with all journeys, they involve taking a series of steps. I suggest you look at the two careers that interest you most and identify the common classes for both... then take a few of those classes... or take one entry level class associated with each of those career paths. When I started college, I took entry level classes in accounting and computer science.. after the first term, I quickly determined that I was not on the right path... I switched to business classes and found a much better fit. And as you explore various classes the puzzle pieces will start to fit together and you'll find yourself getting closer and closer to the right path for you. Plus this may not be your path your entire life... I've had jobs in finance, administration, marketing, sales, sales management and I learned something from all of them. Good luck and enjoy the journey!
Thank you comment icon Loved reading this, thanks! Teagan
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you would like to develop your careers in engineering and veterinary science.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Attend the information session hosts by the college on engineering and veterinary science. Speak to the professors to acquire better understanding. Also, if there are seniors students studying the subjects present in the information session, speak to them as well.
2. Speak to someone who are working in the careers.
3. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor and your parents.
4. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Thank you comment icon Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it. Teagan
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Joshua’s Answer

Making a career decision is might be quiet challenging.
Choosing a good career path may be a little bit complicated sometimes.
you have done a good job to narrow it down to two paths engineering or veterinary science research.
Looking at this you seems to love a career path creating solutions to problems, so I would advise you go with which fulfills your desires more, both are great choices but you should seek which makes you happy when creating solutions.
Reflect on the desire you will derive doing each of either engineering or veterinary science research.
Make further research ( Google, YouTube, family members, mentors, professors) in each field and see which best fulfill your desire.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the advice. Teagan
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Nicole’s Answer

Hi Teagan. Thanks for this awesome question!

I agree a whole lot with the previous answers you have been given. Taking the time to research career fields that you might be interested in is a great habit to create. Not only will this type of research help you now as you are in thinking about college but it will also be helpful as you are thinking about building your career as an adult.

I am biased in that I went to school for engineering. It was the one study path that I could think of where, when I graduated, I could jump into interesting work right away. Since graduating many, many years ago, I have had the opportunity to work at many great companies with many interesting roles, projects and responsibilities.

In general though, whether your choices are engineering, veterinary science or something else, it is important for you to spend the time to identify (and re evaluate from time to time) what is it you like to do and what you are good at. I share this because over time, sustained career success is driven by interest and passion. When individuals get to a point where they would do their job, even if there wasn't great pay, that job becomes more than a job which can be a fulfilling reward. Don't get me wrong. Financial stability is important :). Generally speaking, career success can be a combination of actual enjoyment of what you do, having meaning in what you do, getting to do that thing in different and interesting ways and getting a good salary based on your contributions.

Finally as for deciding on what high school classes to take. Where possible, continue to dig into math and if possible, consider a class that includes fundamentals in programming/coding. In my opinion, these are foundational classes that will only help over time.

I hope you find this answer helpful and best of luck to you!
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the help. Teagan
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Chirayu’s Answer

Choosing a career path can be a challenging decision, and it's great that you're already thinking about it in high school. Here are a few steps that can help you make the decision - Look into what each career path involves, what the day-to-day job looks like, what education and training is required, and what the job outlook is like. This will help you get a better understanding of the fields and the opportunities they offer. Think about what subjects you enjoy in school, what hobbies or activities you enjoy, and what skills you have. This can help you narrow down the careers that align with your interests and strengths. Talk to people who work in the fields you're considering, and ask them about their experiences and what the job is really like. You can also talk to your school counselor, teachers, or family members for guidance. It's important to think about the job market for each career path and what the potential salary is like. This can help you make a practical decision that aligns with your goals. Once you've done your research, you can start making a plan for the classes you need to take in high school and beyond. Consider taking courses that will prepare you for both careers, such as math, science, and communication skills. Keep in mind that you don't necessarily have to make a final decision now - you can always change your mind or pursue additional education later on.
Thank you comment icon I appreciate this, thank you for the advice. Teagan
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Dan’s Answer

With any big choice I find it helpful to open the notes app on your phone and list the pros/cons of engineering and the pros/cons of Veterinary science research. Be honest with yourself based on the knowledge you know through your research. Write yourself a letter on what you value most. Build out your core values and beliefs and see if those align to the profession you plan to go into. People tend to be more happy with career choices if they align to their core values. For example, if having an impact on others is more important than making money - resist the choice to go against this gut feeling. You will regret decisions that go against your core values. Lastly make a decision. The more we hold decisions in our heads the more anxiety builds. You won't truly know until you do it. The learning and growth happens when you do.

Dan recommends the following next steps:

Check out this Ted Talks by Dan Gilbert on the surprising science of Happiness. https://www.ted.com/talks/dan_gilbert_the_surprising_science_of_happiness
Thank you comment icon Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action! Teagan
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Hunter’s Answer

Most people have faced the challenge of not knowing what they want to be when they grow up. I changed my major several times in college before discovering a field that I'm good at and enjoy. If you're interested in a specific type of engineering, consider reaching out to local firms and asking if you can shadow them for a day or have a short phone call to learn about their experiences and get advice.

If that's not possible, you could try contacting a professor at a nearby college for a chat. Many universities have their faculty directories online, making it easy to find a professor's email and ask for guidance. Regarding veterinary science, you could potentially connect with faculty members at universities with a veterinary program.

Another great idea is to volunteer at a local veterinary clinic to see if that's your true passion. This hands-on experience can provide valuable insights into the field.
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