14 answers
abby
Student
Mesa, Arizona
1
Question
Asked
791 views
How Do i know what to do after college?
I’m a high school senior and super scared and unprepared for the future
14 answers
Allyson Gordon
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Allyson’s Answer
Don't worry too much about that right now! I would focus on enjoying your college experience and taking advantage of all of the amazing things that college has to offer. As you go through your college experience the people you meet and classes you take will hopefully help shape what it is you feel you are most interested in. Take a variety of classes including subjects that you know nothing about - you may find an interest you didn't know you had. That all said, your college major doesn't need to define your career path either! It can help set you up for that first internship or job, but you don't HAVE to work in the field set by your major (I can speak about this from personal experience.) Stay open minded and the path forward will become more clear over time.
TaNia Green
Cleaning Service
11
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
TaNia’s Answer
Once you've completed your college journey, take a moment to reflect on your life's path. Use this time to understand your desires, identify what brings you joy, and determine your life's direction post-college. Remember, it's okay not to have everything sorted out just yet, as we're all works in progress. The key is to keep making strides towards discovering your passions, the sights you yearn to see, and the places you aspire to be. Jot these down and start mapping out the steps towards achieving your goals. You're capable of accomplishing great things!
Cung Nguyen
40
Answers
Updated
Cung’s Answer
Don't worry, you're on the right path to complete your high school and then move on to college. During your college journey, you might switch your degree program a few times, but if you can stay focused on the degree you're most passionate about, you'll likely finish college in less time. Once you've earned your first degree, your Bachelor's, and land your first job, you'll soon discover whether it's your dream job. It might be, it might not be. Be prepared to switch employers a few times throughout your career.
College is likely to be one of the best times in your life, a period when you're old enough to make your own decisions and young enough to relish life's various adventures. Some programs might require intense study and less time for fun, but the payoff is substantial. For instance, opting for a degree in computer science, engineering, or a health care-related field can set you up well for your first job. So, here's wishing you good luck. Savor and make the most of your college days.
College is likely to be one of the best times in your life, a period when you're old enough to make your own decisions and young enough to relish life's various adventures. Some programs might require intense study and less time for fun, but the payoff is substantial. For instance, opting for a degree in computer science, engineering, or a health care-related field can set you up well for your first job. So, here's wishing you good luck. Savor and make the most of your college days.
Karen Kitchel
Community Volunteer
355
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Karen’s Answer
You get to choose what you will do after high school. Good to talk to a counselor or teacher at school about what they see are your best options. Perhaps you might be more comfortable at a community college. You can also do online learning. Might help if you do some volunteering now to gain experience in team skills, communication and various ways that people give back which will make you feel good.
Try not to worry too much about the future. You have an entire lifetime ahead and you may end up with several careers and plans for your life. Enjoy each day, focus on being kind to others and chances are you will feel less stressed.
With every good wish.
Try not to worry too much about the future. You have an entire lifetime ahead and you may end up with several careers and plans for your life. Enjoy each day, focus on being kind to others and chances are you will feel less stressed.
With every good wish.
Milenia James
Analyst
3
Answers
Weehawken, New Jersey
Updated
Milenia’s Answer
Hey Abby!
1. I think you can set up coffee chats with people in different majors at your school/professors to get their perspective and see what interests you
2. Try looking into summer internships (linkedin, indeed, or reach out to family or friends to learn about opportunities)
3. Take a bootcamp that's tailored to your interests
Best of luck!
1. I think you can set up coffee chats with people in different majors at your school/professors to get their perspective and see what interests you
2. Try looking into summer internships (linkedin, indeed, or reach out to family or friends to learn about opportunities)
3. Take a bootcamp that's tailored to your interests
Best of luck!
Bhavana GORLE
IT Software Engineer
4
Answers
Jersey City, New Jersey
Updated
Bhavana’s Answer
Go for a vacation and spend some time thinking what is your passion and where you want to be after 5-10 years. Then start working on it. You may want to research on becoming an IT Professional/Management Professional/Engineering Professional etc. I would suggest opt for the relevant courses. To understand your passion start interacting with senior professionals and their work. If you want to become a doctor, try researching the different fields in Medicine and which field is more interesting to you. A tip to understand your passion, you will feel anxious to learn more of a particular field and don't easily get bored in learning about it. Choose that field as your passion and build your network and interests around that field. Remember, reading alone doesn't build you as a strong professional in your field. Start interacting with friends, play games, chose some interesting hobbies in addition to working on your passion. Good Luck!!
Go for a vacation with your friends and think
Bhavana recommends the following next steps:
Zifan Cao
investment banking
5
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Zifan’s Answer
Have you developed any sort of interests during your study or day to day life? Or got inspired or influenced by certain people from certain occupation? I think that will be a good starting point. Then I would do a broad research on how different jobs in different industries look like and even try to talk to people who work in your desired area - can ask your parents for help to connect or I am happy to help as well. Then you don't have to rush to a decision - after going to college and get more exposure to life and the world, you may change your mind. Then you will have professional career advisor in your school. Go talk to them and take time to choose. It just takes time, not everyone knows what they will do in high school.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Observe how your talents are changing with time like your talents aren't static they can grow the way that I went to difficult classes in mathematics calculus in 1972 I didn't have the attitude to go get them and really dominate the subject so in 1973 I had to be like artificially interested I made the interest cause I wanted to matriculate past exams and I was accepted for medicine but I did science. Make yourself like the subject which is like a self discipline exercise although the subject might really be interesting to you think of what's lying at the other side when you pass the subject and move on to college. Explore different ways of learning you mightn't want to work through a book slowly you might want to open a page at random but the important thing is how frequently you look at the work and assimilate the topic. You will not earn the top bracket of wages just relying on your past level but hey please people in the workplace by doing your job diligently so that problems are actually solved problems don't hang around for weeks. A big part of earning big dollars is finding people's needs and satisfying them so you can make a product that they really want to make their self actualization complete to empower them if you're out West teaching the Aboriginal people how to get good nutrition then show them what could happen if they get the right diet get fit and Exercise for instance they might win basket ball championships.
Set yourself for goal using the talents that you have
Make a timeline with dates as to what you want to achieve when
Formula in action plan or business plan which is concordant with the goals you want to achieve when
Get rolled in chosen course and apply yourself
Formulate really good resume and cover letter explaining what your past positions were and how you have achieved as a result of those and market what you can give the employer in benefits
James Constantine recommends the following next steps:
Bethany Rentfro Heyde
Public Relations/Customer Service
3
Answers
Marion, Illinois
Updated
Bethany’s Answer
Hello!
Not knowing what you want to study in college is completely fine! I was in the same boat! I started my journey at a community college before making the leap to a university. During my time at the community college, I was uncertain about my major, so I opted for general studies. This allowed me the flexibility to explore different areas and figure out what truly sparked my interest. I had a wide range of interests, so it was important for me to find a field that I would enjoy and could envision myself in for the long haul. Eventually, when I moved to university, I settled on Journalism/Mass Communications as my major, a field that offers a variety of study areas to delve into.
For those of you fresh out of high school and stepping into college without a clear idea of what you want to do, I highly recommend starting with a junior college. Despite the undeserved negative reputation, many junior colleges boast excellent professors who are experts in their fields.
But if you're heading straight to a university, my suggestion would be to jot down your interests and try to pinpoint a field you can see yourself in. Alternatively, some universities offer "university studies" as a major. This gives students the liberty to take classes that pique their interest without being tied down to a specific field of study. It would be a good idea to discuss this with your academic advisor to see if your university provides this option.
Not knowing what you want to study in college is completely fine! I was in the same boat! I started my journey at a community college before making the leap to a university. During my time at the community college, I was uncertain about my major, so I opted for general studies. This allowed me the flexibility to explore different areas and figure out what truly sparked my interest. I had a wide range of interests, so it was important for me to find a field that I would enjoy and could envision myself in for the long haul. Eventually, when I moved to university, I settled on Journalism/Mass Communications as my major, a field that offers a variety of study areas to delve into.
For those of you fresh out of high school and stepping into college without a clear idea of what you want to do, I highly recommend starting with a junior college. Despite the undeserved negative reputation, many junior colleges boast excellent professors who are experts in their fields.
But if you're heading straight to a university, my suggestion would be to jot down your interests and try to pinpoint a field you can see yourself in. Alternatively, some universities offer "university studies" as a major. This gives students the liberty to take classes that pique their interest without being tied down to a specific field of study. It would be a good idea to discuss this with your academic advisor to see if your university provides this option.
Samantha Gerrity
Project Manager
3
Answers
Oakdale, New York
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
Embracing the unknown may seem daunting, but it's a vital part of personal development. Don't shy away from unfamiliar or challenging situations - they're crucial for growth. Make the most of your college years, they're unique and won't come back. Be open to meeting new people, participating in clubs or groups, and contributing to your community. Explore a variety of classes to discover your true passions and interests.
Roel Ramon
Product Management and Development
64
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Roel’s Answer
What a fantastic question! Your college years are a golden opportunity to discover more about who you are. This is a time to delve into your interests and figure out which career path sparks your excitement for the future. It's perfectly fine if you don't have all the answers right now. As you evolve and gain more self-knowledge, your post-college aspirations will become clearer. Remember, it's okay to experiment with different things. This will help you understand what you enjoy and what you don't. Embrace this journey of self-discovery!
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Feeling scared and unprepared for the future is entirely normal, especially as a high school senior facing the transition to college and beyond. Here are some steps to help you navigate this uncertain but exciting time:
1. **Self-Reflection:** Take some time to reflect on your interests, passions, and values. What subjects or activities do you genuinely enjoy? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Understanding yourself better can help you make more informed decisions.
2. **Set Goals:** Start by setting both short-term and long-term goals. What do you want to achieve in the next few years? What are your ultimate career aspirations? Having clear goals can give you direction.
3. **Career Exploration:** Research different career paths and industries. Explore your interests through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. These experiences can help you gain insight into potential careers.
4. **College Planning:** If you're heading to college, research your chosen major and career options. Consider meeting with a college advisor or career counselor to discuss your academic and career goals.
5. **Networking:** Connect with professionals in fields you're interested in through networking events, informational interviews, or LinkedIn. Building a network can provide valuable insights and open up opportunities.
6. **Utilize Resources:** Take advantage of the resources available to you. High schools often offer career counseling services and resources for college planning. Use these services to your advantage.
7. **Seek Mentorship:** Find a mentor or advisor who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your educational and career path. Mentors can offer valuable advice and help you make informed decisions.
8. **Stay Open-Minded:** It's okay if you don't have your entire future mapped out. Many people change careers multiple times throughout their lives. Be open to exploring different paths and adapting as you learn and grow.
9. **Learn About Life Skills:** In addition to academic and career preparation, consider learning practical life skills like budgeting, time management, and cooking. These skills will serve you well as you transition to adulthood.
10. **Embrace Challenges:** Understand that facing the unknown can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity for growth. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and take calculated risks.
11. **Self-Care:** Take care of your physical and mental well-being. Managing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are essential during times of transition.
12. **Stay Informed:** Stay updated on current events and trends in the job market and industries that interest you. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions about your future.
Remember that it's okay to feel uncertain about the future; many people do. The key is to take proactive steps to explore your options and make decisions that align with your interests and values. Your path may not be linear, and that's perfectly fine. Keep learning, stay adaptable, and trust that your experiences will lead you toward a fulfilling future.
1. **Self-Reflection:** Take some time to reflect on your interests, passions, and values. What subjects or activities do you genuinely enjoy? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Understanding yourself better can help you make more informed decisions.
2. **Set Goals:** Start by setting both short-term and long-term goals. What do you want to achieve in the next few years? What are your ultimate career aspirations? Having clear goals can give you direction.
3. **Career Exploration:** Research different career paths and industries. Explore your interests through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. These experiences can help you gain insight into potential careers.
4. **College Planning:** If you're heading to college, research your chosen major and career options. Consider meeting with a college advisor or career counselor to discuss your academic and career goals.
5. **Networking:** Connect with professionals in fields you're interested in through networking events, informational interviews, or LinkedIn. Building a network can provide valuable insights and open up opportunities.
6. **Utilize Resources:** Take advantage of the resources available to you. High schools often offer career counseling services and resources for college planning. Use these services to your advantage.
7. **Seek Mentorship:** Find a mentor or advisor who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your educational and career path. Mentors can offer valuable advice and help you make informed decisions.
8. **Stay Open-Minded:** It's okay if you don't have your entire future mapped out. Many people change careers multiple times throughout their lives. Be open to exploring different paths and adapting as you learn and grow.
9. **Learn About Life Skills:** In addition to academic and career preparation, consider learning practical life skills like budgeting, time management, and cooking. These skills will serve you well as you transition to adulthood.
10. **Embrace Challenges:** Understand that facing the unknown can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity for growth. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and take calculated risks.
11. **Self-Care:** Take care of your physical and mental well-being. Managing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are essential during times of transition.
12. **Stay Informed:** Stay updated on current events and trends in the job market and industries that interest you. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions about your future.
Remember that it's okay to feel uncertain about the future; many people do. The key is to take proactive steps to explore your options and make decisions that align with your interests and values. Your path may not be linear, and that's perfectly fine. Keep learning, stay adaptable, and trust that your experiences will lead you toward a fulfilling future.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Abby.
How to Know What to Do After College: A Guide for High School Seniors
Transitioning from high school to college can be an exciting and transformative experience. However, it is also common to feel scared and unprepared for what lies ahead after college. The uncertainty about the future can be overwhelming, but with careful planning and self-reflection, you can gain clarity on your post-college path. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various steps and considerations to help you determine what to do after college.
1. Self-Reflection and Identifying Interests:
Before making any decisions about your future, it is crucial to engage in self-reflection and identify your interests, passions, and values. Understanding yourself better will provide a solid foundation for making informed choices. Consider asking yourself the following questions:
- What subjects or activities do I enjoy the most?
- What are my strengths and weaknesses?
- What are my long-term goals and aspirations?
- What kind of lifestyle do I envision for myself?
By answering these questions honestly, you can gain insight into potential career paths that align with your interests and values.
2. Research Different Career Options:
Once you have a better understanding of your interests, it is essential to research different career options that align with those interests. Explore various industries, job roles, and professions that appeal to you. Consider factors such as job outlook, salary potential, required education or training, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment.
Conduct online research using reliable sources such as government websites, professional associations, and career exploration platforms. These resources often provide detailed information about different careers, including job descriptions, educational requirements, average salaries, and growth projections.
Additionally, reach out to professionals working in fields that interest you. Conduct informational interviews or shadowing experiences to gain firsthand knowledge about their day-to-day responsibilities and the realities of their chosen careers. This interaction can provide valuable insights into whether a particular career path is the right fit for you.
3. Gain Practical Experience:
While research and self-reflection are crucial, gaining practical experience can significantly enhance your understanding of different career paths. Consider engaging in the following activities to gain hands-on experience:
- Internships: Seek out internships related to your field of interest. Internships provide an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, gain practical skills, and make professional connections.
- Volunteering: Engage in volunteer work that aligns with your interests. Not only does volunteering allow you to contribute to a cause you care about, but it also provides an opportunity to develop transferable skills and expand your network.
- Part-time Jobs: Take on part-time jobs that expose you to different industries or job roles. This can help you explore various career options and gain valuable skills.
- Extracurricular Activities: Participate in clubs, organizations, or projects that align with your interests. These activities can help you develop leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and a sense of purpose.
By gaining practical experience, you can test out different career paths, build your resume, and make informed decisions about your future after college.
Conclusion:
Transitioning from high school to college can be a daunting prospect, but with careful planning and self-reflection, you can navigate this period of uncertainty. Engaging in self-reflection, researching different career options, and gaining practical experience are essential steps in determining what to do after college. Remember that it is normal to feel scared and unprepared, but by taking proactive steps towards exploring your interests and goals, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions about your future.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov)
2. The Princeton Review (www.princetonreview.com)
3. National Association of Colleges and Employers (www.naceweb.org)
Organic Web Results:
10 results
www.quora.com
What am I going to do after I graduate high school in 3 months because ...
Go see a counsellor. Be it a doctor or a school counsellor. They can help you overcome the anxiety. See what you need/ want to do.
www.thewhitonline.com
Graduation Anxiety: Coping With Fears of the Future
The immediate future may feel especially anxiety-inducing right now. But try thinking about all the exciting things that you have to look ...
joinhandshake.com
No job after graduation? How to manage your anxiety and keep going
Advice from grads who have been in your shoes (and all found jobs!) on how to manage stress and ace the post-graduation job search.
www.reddit.com
Is anyone else terrified of life post-college?
I feel like I'll just get my Bachelors degree and never get into medical school and not know what to do with a Biology degree with student debt.
www.choosingtherapy.com
How to Deal With High School Graduation Depression & Anxiety
2. Form New Connections ... Make yourself visible wherever you go. If you're in a new job, socialize during breaks rather than avoiding new people ...
www.indeed.com
16 Options To Consider for What To Do After College
Begin searching for internships prior to graduation, so you can immediately begin after graduating.
www.askamanager.org
I'm terrified of graduating and am panicking about finding a job
Look around to find jobs that you think might interest you and apply. Once you get your first job, you'll figure out the things you do and don't ...
admissions.usf.edu
7 Tips for Dealing with the Anxiety of Graduating High School
If college is in your future, make sure you have applied to the schools that make the most sense for you, your budget, and your future career.
rosshightimes.com
The Anxiety with Change
“I have a fear for my education in my future because I don't know what I want to do when I get out of high school. Thinking about it makes ...
www.aft.org
It's Time to Tell the Kids: If You Don't Do Well in High School, You Won ...
Many counselors report that they advise students with D-averages to attend a community college and later transfer to a four-year college. One student with a D- ...
GOD BLESS YOU!
How to Know What to Do After College: A Guide for High School Seniors
Transitioning from high school to college can be an exciting and transformative experience. However, it is also common to feel scared and unprepared for what lies ahead after college. The uncertainty about the future can be overwhelming, but with careful planning and self-reflection, you can gain clarity on your post-college path. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various steps and considerations to help you determine what to do after college.
1. Self-Reflection and Identifying Interests:
Before making any decisions about your future, it is crucial to engage in self-reflection and identify your interests, passions, and values. Understanding yourself better will provide a solid foundation for making informed choices. Consider asking yourself the following questions:
- What subjects or activities do I enjoy the most?
- What are my strengths and weaknesses?
- What are my long-term goals and aspirations?
- What kind of lifestyle do I envision for myself?
By answering these questions honestly, you can gain insight into potential career paths that align with your interests and values.
2. Research Different Career Options:
Once you have a better understanding of your interests, it is essential to research different career options that align with those interests. Explore various industries, job roles, and professions that appeal to you. Consider factors such as job outlook, salary potential, required education or training, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment.
Conduct online research using reliable sources such as government websites, professional associations, and career exploration platforms. These resources often provide detailed information about different careers, including job descriptions, educational requirements, average salaries, and growth projections.
Additionally, reach out to professionals working in fields that interest you. Conduct informational interviews or shadowing experiences to gain firsthand knowledge about their day-to-day responsibilities and the realities of their chosen careers. This interaction can provide valuable insights into whether a particular career path is the right fit for you.
3. Gain Practical Experience:
While research and self-reflection are crucial, gaining practical experience can significantly enhance your understanding of different career paths. Consider engaging in the following activities to gain hands-on experience:
- Internships: Seek out internships related to your field of interest. Internships provide an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, gain practical skills, and make professional connections.
- Volunteering: Engage in volunteer work that aligns with your interests. Not only does volunteering allow you to contribute to a cause you care about, but it also provides an opportunity to develop transferable skills and expand your network.
- Part-time Jobs: Take on part-time jobs that expose you to different industries or job roles. This can help you explore various career options and gain valuable skills.
- Extracurricular Activities: Participate in clubs, organizations, or projects that align with your interests. These activities can help you develop leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and a sense of purpose.
By gaining practical experience, you can test out different career paths, build your resume, and make informed decisions about your future after college.
Conclusion:
Transitioning from high school to college can be a daunting prospect, but with careful planning and self-reflection, you can navigate this period of uncertainty. Engaging in self-reflection, researching different career options, and gaining practical experience are essential steps in determining what to do after college. Remember that it is normal to feel scared and unprepared, but by taking proactive steps towards exploring your interests and goals, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions about your future.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov)
2. The Princeton Review (www.princetonreview.com)
3. National Association of Colleges and Employers (www.naceweb.org)
Organic Web Results:
10 results
www.quora.com
What am I going to do after I graduate high school in 3 months because ...
Go see a counsellor. Be it a doctor or a school counsellor. They can help you overcome the anxiety. See what you need/ want to do.
www.thewhitonline.com
Graduation Anxiety: Coping With Fears of the Future
The immediate future may feel especially anxiety-inducing right now. But try thinking about all the exciting things that you have to look ...
joinhandshake.com
No job after graduation? How to manage your anxiety and keep going
Advice from grads who have been in your shoes (and all found jobs!) on how to manage stress and ace the post-graduation job search.
www.reddit.com
Is anyone else terrified of life post-college?
I feel like I'll just get my Bachelors degree and never get into medical school and not know what to do with a Biology degree with student debt.
www.choosingtherapy.com
How to Deal With High School Graduation Depression & Anxiety
2. Form New Connections ... Make yourself visible wherever you go. If you're in a new job, socialize during breaks rather than avoiding new people ...
www.indeed.com
16 Options To Consider for What To Do After College
Begin searching for internships prior to graduation, so you can immediately begin after graduating.
www.askamanager.org
I'm terrified of graduating and am panicking about finding a job
Look around to find jobs that you think might interest you and apply. Once you get your first job, you'll figure out the things you do and don't ...
admissions.usf.edu
7 Tips for Dealing with the Anxiety of Graduating High School
If college is in your future, make sure you have applied to the schools that make the most sense for you, your budget, and your future career.
rosshightimes.com
The Anxiety with Change
“I have a fear for my education in my future because I don't know what I want to do when I get out of high school. Thinking about it makes ...
www.aft.org
It's Time to Tell the Kids: If You Don't Do Well in High School, You Won ...
Many counselors report that they advise students with D-averages to attend a community college and later transfer to a four-year college. One student with a D- ...
GOD BLESS YOU!
Lauren Keeler
Social Impact
24
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
It's totally okay to not know what you want to do after high school! You've got lots of great advice here - so my addition would be to try EVERYTHING and not put too much pressure on yourself.
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