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How do you assure success when your going into college for a career?
I am going to be a senior this year and I don't exactly know what I want to major in for college. I want to pick something that I enjoy doing but also something I can be successful in. I don't want to go to college for something I am unable to get a job in or that I don't enjoy.
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7 answers
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Hello Claire,
Since you are a senior, I highly recommend you speak with a guidance counselor so you can take the ASVAB. While it is for the military, it is an aptitude test anyone can take to see their potential. There is no requirement for you to join the military after taking the exam, but I highly recommend speaking with a recruiter from any service, who can give you the breakdown of your line scores and the kind of jobs you qualify for. That knowledge will help point you in the right direction. I am slightly bias because I am a Navy Recruiter, but 15yrs ago, I was in your shoes with the same mindset.
Very Respectfully,
Eric E. Hopkins, MHA, RMA
HM2(FMF), USN
Since you are a senior, I highly recommend you speak with a guidance counselor so you can take the ASVAB. While it is for the military, it is an aptitude test anyone can take to see their potential. There is no requirement for you to join the military after taking the exam, but I highly recommend speaking with a recruiter from any service, who can give you the breakdown of your line scores and the kind of jobs you qualify for. That knowledge will help point you in the right direction. I am slightly bias because I am a Navy Recruiter, but 15yrs ago, I was in your shoes with the same mindset.
Very Respectfully,
Eric E. Hopkins, MHA, RMA
HM2(FMF), USN
Thank you for your reply and a new idea I will definitely ask my counselor about it.
Claire
Updated
Murph,’s Answer
It may sound simple, but you can have it all. Find the major that you will enjoy, that you can be successful in and afterwards be able to find a decent job. Or better than decent. Even if it means you having to get 2 degrees, majoring in what you love will set you up for success. The better your grades and the better your gpa, the more doors will open for you. Possible internships could come your way that help you figure out what you want to do. Research opportunities will also come with a higher gpa, which could lead to opportunities to get a second or third degree. But ideally, you want it ALL! Something you're passionate about, that you can get great grades in and will set you up for a great career. I forgot, decide if you want a career or job. Do you know the difference? For a career, sometimes more than one degree is required. For a job, you may need only one degree. Follow your heart and your passion, excel in the classroom and doors will open up for you. But don't ever stop doing the research and don't be afraid to think outside the box and come out of your comfort zone.
Thank you so much this is what I have been kind of thinking in my mind but hearing it from someone else is reassuring.
Claire
Updated
Madi’s Answer
Hi Claire,
A good approach to determining your ideal career involves considering your hobbies and what truly excites you. Suppose you have a deep connection with the environment; in that case, you might explore a career in public health and strive to become an advocate in this field. Ultimately, it's essential to choose a career that aligns with your values and interests, ensuring that you find joy and satisfaction in your work.
Wishing you the best of luck!
A good approach to determining your ideal career involves considering your hobbies and what truly excites you. Suppose you have a deep connection with the environment; in that case, you might explore a career in public health and strive to become an advocate in this field. Ultimately, it's essential to choose a career that aligns with your values and interests, ensuring that you find joy and satisfaction in your work.
Wishing you the best of luck!
Thank you, I will start thinking more about my hobbies and what I enjoy to do for fun.
Claire
Updated
Kristin’s Answer
You are not alone! The good news is that college is such an incredible opportunity to explore and learn more about who you are and how you want to move forward as an adult. You are looking for a balance of happiness ("I like it") and practicality ("I can get a job") - which makes a lot of sense. I recommend to start college with a very open mind, exploring through coursework what sparks your interest. With some perspective on that, you can then supplement with exploration of how the interest might translate into a career. Definitely talk to people and make the most of all the resources that colleges offer! And please keep in mind: you will grow and evolve through your whole life; create a foundation of knowledge in skills in college, and know that you will continue to progress from there. Good luck!
Thank you, that makes me feel more confident and relieved.
Claire
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. The most important is find out what careers you have interest. It is more difficult to success if you work on a career without interest.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about your interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
If you are interested in music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical actor, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you are interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, your parents, school career counsellor, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about your interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
If you are interested in music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical actor, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you are interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, your parents, school career counsellor, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Claire
Updated
Marge’s Answer
First step is to determine your interests, those that spark your curiosity to learn and find fulfillment doing. Next would be to check if there are careers that match these interests. It would be great if you can also reach out to your guidance counselors as they can also help you map out the best careers and college courses. Also, a good thing to keep in mind is that you can always reinvent yourself! Your passions and interest may change at a certain point and that should not stop you from changing career paths and seeking better opportunities.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Claire
Updated
Ricky’s Answer
Hello Claire,
For the first two years of college, I was uncertain about my career path, so I didn't declare a major. If you're also unsure about your major, consider looking for colleges that offer this flexibility. Explore classes that pique your interest and seek out internships. These experiences will help guide you in answering your questions. Additionally, remember that you can always change your decisions at any point in your life. Life isn't a predetermined, straight path. Instead, it's through various experiences and learning from mistakes that you'll discover what's truly best for you.
I hope this advice is helpful.
For the first two years of college, I was uncertain about my career path, so I didn't declare a major. If you're also unsure about your major, consider looking for colleges that offer this flexibility. Explore classes that pique your interest and seek out internships. These experiences will help guide you in answering your questions. Additionally, remember that you can always change your decisions at any point in your life. Life isn't a predetermined, straight path. Instead, it's through various experiences and learning from mistakes that you'll discover what's truly best for you.
I hope this advice is helpful.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Claire