8 answers
Rahina
Student
Tylertown, Mississippi
1
Question
Asked
628 views
How do i decided what best for me?
My mom wants me to be a medical doctor but i want to be an actress or a musician. She’s afraid im not gonna succeed in the entertainment industry
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8 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
745
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
As an college academic advisor, I have seen many people pursue education in a profession, that they were not really interested in pursuing, nor did they have the drive or passion, to continue within that profession, even if they did get the degree and end up working in it. They all ended up leaving, because they disliked it, and even though they were making good money in it.
I have a simple formula, when it comes to this question. What do you love to do so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway? This might take some self reflection to answer this question.
But, the students I worked with, who followed this philosophy, seemed to love going to work each day, and they were very good at what they did. And when you are good at what you do, the money eventually follows.
Plus, there are lots of alternate, and jump off careers, in the field you like. Including teaching and education. So, this might be a point to emphasize. The other careers outside of entertainment.
I have a simple formula, when it comes to this question. What do you love to do so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway? This might take some self reflection to answer this question.
But, the students I worked with, who followed this philosophy, seemed to love going to work each day, and they were very good at what they did. And when you are good at what you do, the money eventually follows.
Plus, there are lots of alternate, and jump off careers, in the field you like. Including teaching and education. So, this might be a point to emphasize. The other careers outside of entertainment.
Trevor Dawson
Consulting
99
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Trevor’s Answer
Just make sure to balance what you want to do with the risk you're willing to take financially. You shouldn't do something that you absolutely hate, but you should consider the risk factors in going after a career with a lower chance of financial security.
deborah kania, bfa, mba
Marketing
67
Answers
New Bern, North Carolina
Updated
deborah’s Answer
Hello Rahina! I really appreciate your question. Parents worry about their children's future and want to best for them. However, it is *your* future. Parents will make suggestions because of their fear. If you want to pursue acting or music badly enough, fight for it. I had to convince my dad that I wanted to go into graphic design. I stood my ground even though it was difficult to do so. I went to design school, graduated top in my class, and got my first job at an advertising agency. While my career went in slightly different but related directions, to marketing, and now teaching business and marketing as a college professor, I would not have planned it this way, and have no regrets in the path I took. While college is about preparing for a career, it is also about exploration and self-discovery. Best of luck!
Emmett Courtney
Order Specialist
4
Answers
Charleston, South Carolina
Updated
Emmett’s Answer
Hey! This is a great question I often ask myself. I think it's important to keep in mind that you will be spending a large portion of your time doing this. Is it something that you can wake up every day and do long term? I believe that if I am willing to make the necessary sacrifices to become successful in what I am doing, I can accomplish what I want to and I believe that for you too! Both of those careers take hard work and determination. I'd find people who already have those careers and talk to them about their decision making process and try to relate their experience to what you are going through. Good luck and whatever you decide, I'm sure you'll find success in it!
Joy Laraque , CDR
Corporate Recruiter
5
Answers
St. Augustine, Florida
Updated
Joy’s Answer
Deciding on a career involves a thoughtful process of self-reflection, research, and exploration.
Self-Assessment:
Identify your interests, passions, and values.
Assess your skills, strengths, and weaknesses.
Consider your personality traits and how they align with different career environments.
Research Occupations:
Explore various professions that align with your interests.
Research job responsibilities, required qualifications, and potential career paths.
Look into industries that are growing and have future prospects.
Education and Training:
Determine the education or training required for your desired career.
Assess if you need additional qualifications or certifications.
Networking:
Connect with professionals in the fields you're interested in.
Attend networking events, seminars, or join online communities related to your potential career.
Gain Experience:
Seek internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in your chosen field.
Gain hands-on experience to understand the day-to-day aspects of the job.
Set Goals:
Define short-term and long-term career goals.
Consider the lifestyle you want and how your career choice aligns with it.
Adaptability:
Be open to change and adaptability as your interests and the job market evolve.
Consider acquiring a diverse skill set that can be applied in different contexts.
Seek Guidance:
Consult with career counselors, mentors, or professionals in your network.
Gain insights from experienced individuals who can provide valuable advice.
Evaluate Job Market:
Consider the demand for your chosen career in the current job market.
Look into trends and potential future changes in the industry.
Trial and Error:
Don't be afraid to try different roles through internships or projects to gain clarity.
Learn from experiences to refine your career path.
Remember that choosing a career is a dynamic process, and it's okay to evolve and adapt your choices over time. Regularly reassess your goals and interests to ensure alignment with your evolving aspirations.
Self-Assessment:
Identify your interests, passions, and values.
Assess your skills, strengths, and weaknesses.
Consider your personality traits and how they align with different career environments.
Research Occupations:
Explore various professions that align with your interests.
Research job responsibilities, required qualifications, and potential career paths.
Look into industries that are growing and have future prospects.
Education and Training:
Determine the education or training required for your desired career.
Assess if you need additional qualifications or certifications.
Networking:
Connect with professionals in the fields you're interested in.
Attend networking events, seminars, or join online communities related to your potential career.
Gain Experience:
Seek internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in your chosen field.
Gain hands-on experience to understand the day-to-day aspects of the job.
Set Goals:
Define short-term and long-term career goals.
Consider the lifestyle you want and how your career choice aligns with it.
Adaptability:
Be open to change and adaptability as your interests and the job market evolve.
Consider acquiring a diverse skill set that can be applied in different contexts.
Seek Guidance:
Consult with career counselors, mentors, or professionals in your network.
Gain insights from experienced individuals who can provide valuable advice.
Evaluate Job Market:
Consider the demand for your chosen career in the current job market.
Look into trends and potential future changes in the industry.
Trial and Error:
Don't be afraid to try different roles through internships or projects to gain clarity.
Learn from experiences to refine your career path.
Remember that choosing a career is a dynamic process, and it's okay to evolve and adapt your choices over time. Regularly reassess your goals and interests to ensure alignment with your evolving aspirations.
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
139
Answers
Kenitra, Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen, Morocco
Updated
Houcine’s Answer
Hello Rihana,
Navigating career decisions, especially when there's a difference in aspirations between you and your mom, can be challenging. It's essential to find a balance that aligns with both your passions and practical considerations. Here are a few steps to help you decide what's best for you:
Reflect on your own interests, strengths, and goals. Consider what truly makes you happy and fulfilled.
Have an open and honest conversation with your mom. Share your passion for acting and music, explaining why it matters to you. Address her concerns and try to find common ground.
Research the entertainment industry and the paths to success in acting or music. Understand the challenges and opportunities, and create a realistic plan for pursuing your dreams.
Explore educational options that support your interests, whether it's attending performing arts schools, taking relevant courses, or seeking mentorship from professionals in the entertainment industry.
Consider compromise and find ways to balance your artistic pursuits with practical considerations. This may involve setting realistic goals, having a backup plan, or finding ways to integrate your creative passions into a more conventional career.
Remember that your happiness and fulfillment in your chosen path are essential. Finding a career that aligns with your passions and brings you joy is a key ingredient for long-term success and satisfaction.
Best wishes as you navigate this important decision!
Warm regards,
Houcine
Navigating career decisions, especially when there's a difference in aspirations between you and your mom, can be challenging. It's essential to find a balance that aligns with both your passions and practical considerations. Here are a few steps to help you decide what's best for you:
Reflect on your own interests, strengths, and goals. Consider what truly makes you happy and fulfilled.
Have an open and honest conversation with your mom. Share your passion for acting and music, explaining why it matters to you. Address her concerns and try to find common ground.
Research the entertainment industry and the paths to success in acting or music. Understand the challenges and opportunities, and create a realistic plan for pursuing your dreams.
Explore educational options that support your interests, whether it's attending performing arts schools, taking relevant courses, or seeking mentorship from professionals in the entertainment industry.
Consider compromise and find ways to balance your artistic pursuits with practical considerations. This may involve setting realistic goals, having a backup plan, or finding ways to integrate your creative passions into a more conventional career.
Remember that your happiness and fulfillment in your chosen path are essential. Finding a career that aligns with your passions and brings you joy is a key ingredient for long-term success and satisfaction.
Best wishes as you navigate this important decision!
Warm regards,
Houcine
Amit Mittal
Officer at Citibank
96
Answers
Pune, Maharashtra, India
Updated
Amit’s Answer
Hello, this is Amit Mittal. I’m glad you reached out to me with your question. 😊
Choosing a career is a big decision that can affect your happiness and well-being. It’s normal to feel confused or unsure about what you want to do with your life. There is no one right answer, but there are some steps you can take to help you find your best fit.
One of the first steps is to perform a self-assessment. This means learning more about your interests, values, personality, and skills. You can ask yourself some questions, such as:
What do you enjoy learning about?
What are your priorities in life?
What does success mean to you?
Which of your strengths do you enjoy the most?
You can also take some online tests or quizzes that can give you some insights into your preferences and aptitudes. For example, you can try CareerExplorer, a career test that uses advanced science and data to match you with careers that suit you.
Another step is to identify your must-haves. These are the things that you need or want in a career, such as:
Salary
Location
Work environment
Work-life balance
Growth opportunities
Social impact
You can make a list of your must-haves and rank them by importance. This can help you narrow down your options and eliminate careers that don’t meet your criteria.
A third step is to make a list of jobs to explore. Based on your self-assessment and your must-haves, you can brainstorm some careers that interest you or match your profile. You can also do some research online or talk to people who work in those fields. You can use websites like Indeed or Coursera to find information about different jobs and employers, such as:
Job description
Required education and skills
Average salary and outlook
Pros and cons
Reviews and ratings
You can also find courses, certifications, or degrees that can help you gain the knowledge and skills you need for your chosen career.
A fourth step is to meet with professionals. One of the best ways to learn more about a career is to talk to someone who is already working in it. You can ask them questions about their daily tasks, challenges, rewards, and advice. You can also ask them if they can show you their work or let you shadow them for a day. This can give you a realistic and firsthand view of what it’s like to work in that field.
You can find professionals to talk to through your network, such as:
Family and friends
Teachers and mentors
Alumni and classmates
Online communities and forums
You can also use platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed to connect with people who work in your desired industry or company.
A fifth step is to take small steps towards a decision. After you have explored and researched different careers, you can start to narrow down your choices and make a decision. You don’t have to commit to one career for the rest of your life, but you can choose one that fits your current goals and needs. You can also change your mind or switch careers later if you want to.
Some of the things you can do to make a decision are:
Compare and contrast your options
Evaluate the pros and cons of each career
Consider your short-term and long-term goals
Trust your intuition and feelings
Seek feedback and support from others
I hope this helps you with your career choice. Remember, there is no perfect career, but there is a career that is perfect for you. You have the power and the potential to achieve your dreams, whatever they may be. I believe in you. 💯
If you have any other questions or need more guidance, please feel free to chat with me again. I’m always happy to help. 😊
Choosing a career is a big decision that can affect your happiness and well-being. It’s normal to feel confused or unsure about what you want to do with your life. There is no one right answer, but there are some steps you can take to help you find your best fit.
One of the first steps is to perform a self-assessment. This means learning more about your interests, values, personality, and skills. You can ask yourself some questions, such as:
What do you enjoy learning about?
What are your priorities in life?
What does success mean to you?
Which of your strengths do you enjoy the most?
You can also take some online tests or quizzes that can give you some insights into your preferences and aptitudes. For example, you can try CareerExplorer, a career test that uses advanced science and data to match you with careers that suit you.
Another step is to identify your must-haves. These are the things that you need or want in a career, such as:
Salary
Location
Work environment
Work-life balance
Growth opportunities
Social impact
You can make a list of your must-haves and rank them by importance. This can help you narrow down your options and eliminate careers that don’t meet your criteria.
A third step is to make a list of jobs to explore. Based on your self-assessment and your must-haves, you can brainstorm some careers that interest you or match your profile. You can also do some research online or talk to people who work in those fields. You can use websites like Indeed or Coursera to find information about different jobs and employers, such as:
Job description
Required education and skills
Average salary and outlook
Pros and cons
Reviews and ratings
You can also find courses, certifications, or degrees that can help you gain the knowledge and skills you need for your chosen career.
A fourth step is to meet with professionals. One of the best ways to learn more about a career is to talk to someone who is already working in it. You can ask them questions about their daily tasks, challenges, rewards, and advice. You can also ask them if they can show you their work or let you shadow them for a day. This can give you a realistic and firsthand view of what it’s like to work in that field.
You can find professionals to talk to through your network, such as:
Family and friends
Teachers and mentors
Alumni and classmates
Online communities and forums
You can also use platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed to connect with people who work in your desired industry or company.
A fifth step is to take small steps towards a decision. After you have explored and researched different careers, you can start to narrow down your choices and make a decision. You don’t have to commit to one career for the rest of your life, but you can choose one that fits your current goals and needs. You can also change your mind or switch careers later if you want to.
Some of the things you can do to make a decision are:
Compare and contrast your options
Evaluate the pros and cons of each career
Consider your short-term and long-term goals
Trust your intuition and feelings
Seek feedback and support from others
I hope this helps you with your career choice. Remember, there is no perfect career, but there is a career that is perfect for you. You have the power and the potential to achieve your dreams, whatever they may be. I believe in you. 💯
If you have any other questions or need more guidance, please feel free to chat with me again. I’m always happy to help. 😊
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1886
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Rahina !
You actually have a decision to make - do you want to be a doctor ? Is it in you to go to twelve years of academics for a Medical Degree ? Have another conversation and ask your mother why she wants you to be a doctor and ask her for details. The truth is, no one can actually say what anyone's career will be like, especially if she is thinking in terms of the current times and assuming certain things. You wouldn't be working as a doctor until 12 or 13 years from now depending on what grade you are in now. The excellent part of all this is that you don't have to have a degree to go into acting, so if you are seriously scientifically inclined, you can get your Bachelors in a human science and minor in Film or Theatre for acting. Or major in anything you choose. But have another conversation with your mother and give her reasons why it is important for one to choose one's own career. The truth is, everyone has a concern about their future no matter what field of work they strive for.
One way to convince your mother that you do not want to be a doctor is to get the costs of various medical schools and show her the expense. Also ask her how she thinks being a doctor will be a guaranteed success, especially in the beginning when debt is high from having to pay back student loans. When one does their residency they are not paid well, either, but it is required of doctors to do a residency.
On the other hand, pursuing acting does have an expense attached to it, but it's sporadic, small amounts are invested when needed. Remind her of the financial commitment of medical school and ask her how she believes the debt and long hours of work being a doctor, which you don't want to do, will be better for you. I think that you can convince her.
Also tell her that just having your Bachelors degree will open doors that you never imagined. You just cannot predict what opportunity awaits, nothing is assured and that is just how life in general is, too. You have to study what is close to your heart and what you have a calling for, otherwise, it just doesn't work out.
This could also be just some insignificant thing your mother said to air her thoughts and perhaps it's not such a large deal, but it's always disappointing when one sees signs of unsupportive family members or friends. Just go with the flow, be active in acting now and show her - she will be proud of you, I think. You are living in a day and age in which the acting field has broadened and being done independently and you also have the options of doing the New York City or Hollywood thing. Remind your mom that you can do it. So, your question as to how to decide what's best for you is always to let yourself decide. Know what's in your heart and on your mind. Be true to yourself and everyone around you.
If you pursue acting you will look back on this in ten years and be glad you followed your dream, trust me. But definitely go an academic route for this because even if you get a degree in Theatre, having the Bachelors Degree can open doors for in between jobs. We also now have the option of working remote through many online jobs, so there really shouldn't be too much to worry about, but take the best steps to a good outcome.
I hope this helps ! Wishing you all the best in whatever career you choose !
You actually have a decision to make - do you want to be a doctor ? Is it in you to go to twelve years of academics for a Medical Degree ? Have another conversation and ask your mother why she wants you to be a doctor and ask her for details. The truth is, no one can actually say what anyone's career will be like, especially if she is thinking in terms of the current times and assuming certain things. You wouldn't be working as a doctor until 12 or 13 years from now depending on what grade you are in now. The excellent part of all this is that you don't have to have a degree to go into acting, so if you are seriously scientifically inclined, you can get your Bachelors in a human science and minor in Film or Theatre for acting. Or major in anything you choose. But have another conversation with your mother and give her reasons why it is important for one to choose one's own career. The truth is, everyone has a concern about their future no matter what field of work they strive for.
One way to convince your mother that you do not want to be a doctor is to get the costs of various medical schools and show her the expense. Also ask her how she thinks being a doctor will be a guaranteed success, especially in the beginning when debt is high from having to pay back student loans. When one does their residency they are not paid well, either, but it is required of doctors to do a residency.
On the other hand, pursuing acting does have an expense attached to it, but it's sporadic, small amounts are invested when needed. Remind her of the financial commitment of medical school and ask her how she believes the debt and long hours of work being a doctor, which you don't want to do, will be better for you. I think that you can convince her.
Also tell her that just having your Bachelors degree will open doors that you never imagined. You just cannot predict what opportunity awaits, nothing is assured and that is just how life in general is, too. You have to study what is close to your heart and what you have a calling for, otherwise, it just doesn't work out.
This could also be just some insignificant thing your mother said to air her thoughts and perhaps it's not such a large deal, but it's always disappointing when one sees signs of unsupportive family members or friends. Just go with the flow, be active in acting now and show her - she will be proud of you, I think. You are living in a day and age in which the acting field has broadened and being done independently and you also have the options of doing the New York City or Hollywood thing. Remind your mom that you can do it. So, your question as to how to decide what's best for you is always to let yourself decide. Know what's in your heart and on your mind. Be true to yourself and everyone around you.
If you pursue acting you will look back on this in ten years and be glad you followed your dream, trust me. But definitely go an academic route for this because even if you get a degree in Theatre, having the Bachelors Degree can open doors for in between jobs. We also now have the option of working remote through many online jobs, so there really shouldn't be too much to worry about, but take the best steps to a good outcome.
I hope this helps ! Wishing you all the best in whatever career you choose !