5 answers
5 answers
Updated
Clare’s Answer
Hi Lea! I agree with all the answers above but wanted to emphasize that if you pursue a STEAM degree it does not limit you to only STEAM specific jobs after graduation. For example, there are many roles in business where having a STEAM background is highly beneficial and/or required. A couple of examples in my industry are technology and healthcare consulting.
Updated
Poonam’s Answer
Hey Lea! It's awesome that you're looking to discover your passions and strengths! Remember, the journey to finding what you love starts with exploring different activities and interests. It could be tackling complex problems, diving into tech articles, admiring art, conquering math challenges, or piecing together puzzles - the possibilities are endless! Create a list of activities that excite you and make your heart sing.
Once you've got that list, it's time to dig a little deeper. Analyze your choices and consider talking to a mentor for guidance. If you're not sure where to find a mentor, don't worry - just keep an eye out for inspiring individuals! Summer internships could also be an amazing opportunity to explore different fields and learn more about yourself.
Keep in mind that your path may change over time, and that's totally okay! For example, I started as an Electronics Engineer, but my passion for management led me to pursue an MBA. Now, I'm rocking it on the Software side of things. It's all about being open to growth and new experiences.
You're definitely on the right track by asking this question, and I have no doubt that you'll find your true calling in no time. Keep being curious and never stop chasing your dreams! Wishing you all the success and happiness that life has to offer! 🌟
Find a mentor
Make a list of activities you are good at and see what you find.
Once you've got that list, it's time to dig a little deeper. Analyze your choices and consider talking to a mentor for guidance. If you're not sure where to find a mentor, don't worry - just keep an eye out for inspiring individuals! Summer internships could also be an amazing opportunity to explore different fields and learn more about yourself.
Keep in mind that your path may change over time, and that's totally okay! For example, I started as an Electronics Engineer, but my passion for management led me to pursue an MBA. Now, I'm rocking it on the Software side of things. It's all about being open to growth and new experiences.
You're definitely on the right track by asking this question, and I have no doubt that you'll find your true calling in no time. Keep being curious and never stop chasing your dreams! Wishing you all the success and happiness that life has to offer! 🌟
Poonam recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Fred’s Answer
One of the primary reasons for going to college is to help figure out what career you want. You can take various "Intro to <whatever>" classes, and get an idea what a field would be. It helps if you have some idea first, though. STEAM is pretty broad, covering everything from chemistry to engineering to pure math to sculpture.
Nobody can tell you what field you should go into. I can tell you what fields I've worked in, why I left each, and why I'm where I am now, but that wouldn't matter to you. Your interests are different than mine, as are your tolerances for various kinds of work and what you like to do.
Don't focus on how much money you can make. That is a common question here - "What field makes the most money". I'd much rather have a job I enjoy, that gives me a good work life balance and pays less, than one that pays a TON of money, but I work 80+ hours a week, including weekends and holiday, and never get to see my family. Someone else may LOVE that kind of work environment. Everyone is different.
Find a field you ENJOY. Then work to become the best you can be in that field.
Nobody can tell you what field you should go into. I can tell you what fields I've worked in, why I left each, and why I'm where I am now, but that wouldn't matter to you. Your interests are different than mine, as are your tolerances for various kinds of work and what you like to do.
Don't focus on how much money you can make. That is a common question here - "What field makes the most money". I'd much rather have a job I enjoy, that gives me a good work life balance and pays less, than one that pays a TON of money, but I work 80+ hours a week, including weekends and holiday, and never get to see my family. Someone else may LOVE that kind of work environment. Everyone is different.
Find a field you ENJOY. Then work to become the best you can be in that field.
Updated
T.J.’s Answer
Hello Lea!
STEAM contains a lot of big fields: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. Since STEAM contains sub-categories (and the sub-categories contain *even more* sub-categories), the career you choose depends on:
- What topics you're most interested in exploring at this point in your life.
- What activities you prefer to do every day.
If you have not started college:
Enter undeclared and choose General Education courses based on your interests!
Many gen eds let you learn about a variety disciplines and you'll have two years to explore topics that interest you.
If you are already in college (depending on how far along you are in your degree):
Try to hone in on One-to-Two areas in your major/coursework.
Example: You might choose to explore Art and Engineering. So, you may see if your college has architecture or interior design courses.
Also visit career fairs! Employers will share internships available to students.
If you need help tailoring a resume for a job, reach out to a Career Advising Center near you.
Sending encouragement from afar as you plan your career :)
STEAM contains a lot of big fields: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. Since STEAM contains sub-categories (and the sub-categories contain *even more* sub-categories), the career you choose depends on:
- What topics you're most interested in exploring at this point in your life.
- What activities you prefer to do every day.
If you have not started college:
Enter undeclared and choose General Education courses based on your interests!
Many gen eds let you learn about a variety disciplines and you'll have two years to explore topics that interest you.
If you are already in college (depending on how far along you are in your degree):
Try to hone in on One-to-Two areas in your major/coursework.
Example: You might choose to explore Art and Engineering. So, you may see if your college has architecture or interior design courses.
Also visit career fairs! Employers will share internships available to students.
If you need help tailoring a resume for a job, reach out to a Career Advising Center near you.
Sending encouragement from afar as you plan your career :)
Updated
Xavier’s Answer
Hello Lea,
When choosing a career, it's essential to consider your interests and strengths! Selecting a job related to your major will undoubtedly be an excellent decision. I recommend starting with internship opportunities to see if the company suits you well. Another fantastic strategy is maintaining contact with the career center at your college or university. Even though their primary focus is on students, they also provide support for recent graduates.
An additional superb method to find a career after college is to explore your interests and strengths! Possessing a degree offers flexibility in your field of study and can help you enter areas you're truly passionate about!
In conclusion, discovering a career beyond college might be somewhat challenging occasionally, but it's also an incredible opportunity to learn more about yourself!
When choosing a career, it's essential to consider your interests and strengths! Selecting a job related to your major will undoubtedly be an excellent decision. I recommend starting with internship opportunities to see if the company suits you well. Another fantastic strategy is maintaining contact with the career center at your college or university. Even though their primary focus is on students, they also provide support for recent graduates.
An additional superb method to find a career after college is to explore your interests and strengths! Possessing a degree offers flexibility in your field of study and can help you enter areas you're truly passionate about!
In conclusion, discovering a career beyond college might be somewhat challenging occasionally, but it's also an incredible opportunity to learn more about yourself!