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Can I start my career while still in college?
When should I start my career? I want to finish my associates degree and then go to a university but should I start my career while in school or wait until I’m done with college?
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Shondra’s Answer
You do not have to wait until you finish college to begin your career. You can work and take classes simultaneously.
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L’s Answer
While there's no technically right or wrong answer to this, it really just depends on what you want to do! I would advocate to go to college and complete your degree while also finding great part time job opportunities that will expose you to either the field you want to be in or something you are interested in. In college, there's so many ways to find jobs on campus even that are aligned to your degree so you are technically building up your resume and experience while going to college.
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Nancy’s Answer
I started my career while going to college. I worked full-time and took classes in the evening. I think there were a lot of benefits to doing this as I graduated with my Bachelor's degree and already had years of experience. I also paid for college versus having to finance my education which was very beneficial since I didn't have to pay student loans.
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Daniel’s Answer
It really depends the industry, but with remote work now being so popular, its certainly possible. I believe you should sit down with a career advisor at your university and see what local opportunities are offered.
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Amanda’s Answer
I'm a huge advocate of internships as a way to test out career options and get started in building your work experience. As an English major, I had a wide array of potential career options and I'm glad that I explored them during college as I thought I knew what path I wanted to go down, but quickly realized from a few internship experiences that the original field I was thinking about was not the best fit for me. I ultimately ended up getting an offer of full-time employment after graduation from the last internship I did my senior year of college, so it directly led into my first job and I felt I had a head start on my career.
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Yisel’s Answer
Hello Ella,
Now that you're in college, it's the perfect time to start immersing yourself in your chosen career. Understanding the ins and outs of your future profession is an excellent idea. While college is a great place to learn about your career and earn your degree, gaining hands-on experience can give you a significant edge. By the time you step into your new role, you won't be a novice. You'll have field experience and potentially, valuable connections with others in the industry. Remember, it's okay to take your time and grow at your own pace. This will allow you to develop professionally and carve out a clear path for your career journey.
Now that you're in college, it's the perfect time to start immersing yourself in your chosen career. Understanding the ins and outs of your future profession is an excellent idea. While college is a great place to learn about your career and earn your degree, gaining hands-on experience can give you a significant edge. By the time you step into your new role, you won't be a novice. You'll have field experience and potentially, valuable connections with others in the industry. Remember, it's okay to take your time and grow at your own pace. This will allow you to develop professionally and carve out a clear path for your career journey.
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Amit’s Answer
Hello Ella,
Choosing the right time to kick-start your professional journey is a highly individual choice, influenced by a multitude of factors. Here are some key considerations that could guide your decision:
Gaining Work Experience: Acquiring practical experience while still in school can be a great advantage. It equips you with hands-on skills that will prove beneficial in your future career. Opportunities such as internships, part-time jobs, or co-op programs can provide this experience without majorly interrupting your academic pursuits.
Financial Considerations: If you're dealing with financial obligations or student loans, it might be helpful to start working sooner to manage these commitments.
Career Aspirations: If your career ambitions necessitate higher education like a Master’s degree or Ph.D., it could be more practical to concentrate on your studies initially.
Balancing Work and Studies: It's crucial to ponder if you can effectively juggle work and studies without either one adversely affecting the other.
Job Market Trends: The job market scenario in your chosen field, whether in Seattle, elsewhere in Washington State, or beyond, could also sway your decision.
Keep in mind, there's no universal solution to this question. It could be beneficial to explore your options with a career advisor at your school or seek guidance from professionals in your prospective field. Wishing you all the best in making your decision! 😊
Choosing the right time to kick-start your professional journey is a highly individual choice, influenced by a multitude of factors. Here are some key considerations that could guide your decision:
Gaining Work Experience: Acquiring practical experience while still in school can be a great advantage. It equips you with hands-on skills that will prove beneficial in your future career. Opportunities such as internships, part-time jobs, or co-op programs can provide this experience without majorly interrupting your academic pursuits.
Financial Considerations: If you're dealing with financial obligations or student loans, it might be helpful to start working sooner to manage these commitments.
Career Aspirations: If your career ambitions necessitate higher education like a Master’s degree or Ph.D., it could be more practical to concentrate on your studies initially.
Balancing Work and Studies: It's crucial to ponder if you can effectively juggle work and studies without either one adversely affecting the other.
Job Market Trends: The job market scenario in your chosen field, whether in Seattle, elsewhere in Washington State, or beyond, could also sway your decision.
Keep in mind, there's no universal solution to this question. It could be beneficial to explore your options with a career advisor at your school or seek guidance from professionals in your prospective field. Wishing you all the best in making your decision! 😊
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Terra’s Answer
Starting my career while still in college was a crucial step in affirming my passion for the field. A degree is not just a piece of paper; it's a significant financial and emotional commitment. Therefore, it's essential to ensure you're investing wisely in your future. Besides, being in college provides a fantastic opportunity to build your network and establish connections that could be beneficial in landing your dream job after graduation. I would strongly suggest securing a part-time job in the field you're interested in. It's a proactive way to gain practical experience, and it will undoubtedly impress recruiters and hiring managers.
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Luz’s Answer
You can find internships related to your major. You do not have to wait until your graduate.
Yes, of course! It would be a great time to start. Many large firms offer internships as well as short rotations to get a feel for things.
Michelle Pellicone
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