12 answers
Adam
Student
Edmonds, Washington
1
Question
Updated
1471 views
How do i decide between possible careers im good at?
Im very athletic, im good at maths and computer and people tell me i have a talent for singing. Which should i pursue going forward?
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12 answers
Tiffanie Rand (Lampasona), CDR, CIR
Recruiter
53
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Tiffanie’s Answer
While I was in college I couldn't decide between majors so I volunteered at the places that would give me experience in that field. If you're interested in nuring volunteer at a hopsital. If you're interested in Math or Science maybe there is a boys and girls club where you can teach kids math, see if you like that sort of thing.
You can also reach out to your friends and family and see if someone is an engineer, maybe they can talk to you about how you can use math and science in that field.
You can always pursue singing as a minor, if you don't decide to major in it.
I agree with the other comments, I think you can still do something athletic - play sports or even see if a fitness trainer will let you shadow them for a few days and see if you like that.
Volunteering is a great way to get experience in a field and most people are willing to let you help them as a volunteer.
You can also reach out to your friends and family and see if someone is an engineer, maybe they can talk to you about how you can use math and science in that field.
You can always pursue singing as a minor, if you don't decide to major in it.
I agree with the other comments, I think you can still do something athletic - play sports or even see if a fitness trainer will let you shadow them for a few days and see if you like that.
Volunteering is a great way to get experience in a field and most people are willing to let you help them as a volunteer.
Thank you for the advice, Tiffanie.
Adam
my pleasure Adam!
Tiffanie Rand (Lampasona), CDR, CIR
Yumi Nguyen
7
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Yumi’s Answer
You're brimming with talents, and there's no better place to start exploring them than by engaging in school activities that align with your interests. Remember, it's perfectly okay to switch gears if something doesn't thrill you as much as you thought it would. Keep an open mind, and embrace the exciting journey of discovery!
Laura Kaminski
Sr Analyst
6
Answers
Manchester, New Hampshire
Updated
Laura’s Answer
Hi Adam,
It is great to hear you have so many talents and interests. Now is the hard part, deciding which you would like to pursue in life. The secret is, even if you choose now, that doesn't mean you can't change your mind later! I went to 3 different universities until I decided on the one I got my degree at and then 20 years later, I am working on my masters in communication! Life provides you the opportunity to try any number of fields and in some cases multiple fields at once. Don't settle! Decide what you love to do and strive towards that goal. It is important to understand the possible outcomes, as mentioned above, what do you want for the future? What do you hope to achieve? Will the field you choose help to provide you those goals? But ultimately, make sure that you choose things that make you happy, keep you motivated and striving to continue to move forward. And if you end up doing something that doesn't, go ahead and change paths!!
Good luck with everything!!
It is great to hear you have so many talents and interests. Now is the hard part, deciding which you would like to pursue in life. The secret is, even if you choose now, that doesn't mean you can't change your mind later! I went to 3 different universities until I decided on the one I got my degree at and then 20 years later, I am working on my masters in communication! Life provides you the opportunity to try any number of fields and in some cases multiple fields at once. Don't settle! Decide what you love to do and strive towards that goal. It is important to understand the possible outcomes, as mentioned above, what do you want for the future? What do you hope to achieve? Will the field you choose help to provide you those goals? But ultimately, make sure that you choose things that make you happy, keep you motivated and striving to continue to move forward. And if you end up doing something that doesn't, go ahead and change paths!!
Good luck with everything!!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Adam
CARLOS ARAMBURO
Digital Shared Services Manager
4
Answers
Tlajomulco de Zúñiga, Jalisco, Mexico
Updated
CARLOS’s Answer
Have you ever thought about stepping into the spotlight as a professional actor or singer? This could be a fresh perspective to consider. Your knack for numbers could be a huge advantage, helping you evaluate lucrative offers in the media industry and negotiate effectively. If you're athletically inclined, this could be an added bonus to your repertoire. Even a passion for computers could lead you to create engaging content for various media platforms.
I encourage you to take some time to identify your natural talents and abilities that you can effortlessly hone. Once you've figured that out, try to engage in school projects or temporary jobs, if age permits, that align with your interests. This will allow you to explore and confirm what truly captivates you. It could be a significant step towards finding your answer.
Remember, the journey to discovering your ideal career is an exciting one. Keep your spirit of learning alive and you're sure to find your path. Wishing you the best of luck in your career exploration!
I encourage you to take some time to identify your natural talents and abilities that you can effortlessly hone. Once you've figured that out, try to engage in school projects or temporary jobs, if age permits, that align with your interests. This will allow you to explore and confirm what truly captivates you. It could be a significant step towards finding your answer.
Remember, the journey to discovering your ideal career is an exciting one. Keep your spirit of learning alive and you're sure to find your path. Wishing you the best of luck in your career exploration!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Adam !
It's great to have three subjects to consider and it's a matter of priorities to figure out which one would be best for you. You can sing for your entire life, but since you have two other marketable interests my advice would be to look into a STEM career or something you might want to do that incorporates your physical fitness.
The singing is good, too, but it will be more secure and less struggle to pursue an academic route and obtain a degree in STEM or Physical Education. You could do the singing when opportunities come to you instead of doing the enormous amount of footwork and promotion that is needed to be a professional singer. But you will have to make this choice. Think of where you want to be in your life in ten years. Think of what other things you want to obtain for your life and ask yourself which career is mostly likely to provide that for you. This will be a very important decision and one only you can make.
In the meantime, it is great that you hear opinions and advice. You will eventually be inspired and decide on one course of study that you can dedicate yourself to.
I wish you all the best !
It's great to have three subjects to consider and it's a matter of priorities to figure out which one would be best for you. You can sing for your entire life, but since you have two other marketable interests my advice would be to look into a STEM career or something you might want to do that incorporates your physical fitness.
The singing is good, too, but it will be more secure and less struggle to pursue an academic route and obtain a degree in STEM or Physical Education. You could do the singing when opportunities come to you instead of doing the enormous amount of footwork and promotion that is needed to be a professional singer. But you will have to make this choice. Think of where you want to be in your life in ten years. Think of what other things you want to obtain for your life and ask yourself which career is mostly likely to provide that for you. This will be a very important decision and one only you can make.
In the meantime, it is great that you hear opinions and advice. You will eventually be inspired and decide on one course of study that you can dedicate yourself to.
I wish you all the best !
Thank you for taking your time to help me out. I appreciate it
Adam
You are very welcome, Adam !
Michelle M.
Tara Vasanth
Consultant
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Tara’s Answer
Hello Adam!
Your question is truly fantastic! It's absolutely wonderful to see you brimming with so many interests, and I wholeheartedly urge you to delve into each of them. Consider gaining experience in each field, whether it's by taking up relevant courses, engaging in conversations with professionals, or securing a job or internship. I too wrestled with a similar question, and what benefited me the most was discussing with professionals about their daily routines. I discovered many unexpected aspects and realized that some careers were not as I had imagined. Remember, even if you can't transform an interest into a career, it's always fulfilling to nurture it as a hobby outside of your job!
Explore on Access Your Potential’s site potential career opportunities like internships and paid consulting externships for nonprofits. Sign up to have access to these free programs and more here: accessyourpotential.pwc.com
Your question is truly fantastic! It's absolutely wonderful to see you brimming with so many interests, and I wholeheartedly urge you to delve into each of them. Consider gaining experience in each field, whether it's by taking up relevant courses, engaging in conversations with professionals, or securing a job or internship. I too wrestled with a similar question, and what benefited me the most was discussing with professionals about their daily routines. I discovered many unexpected aspects and realized that some careers were not as I had imagined. Remember, even if you can't transform an interest into a career, it's always fulfilling to nurture it as a hobby outside of your job!
Tara recommends the following next steps:
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
750
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Adam, it's perfectly normal to be thoughtful about your future career path, and it's a concern shared by many. There are numerous strategies that can assist you in this endeavor. Begin by reflecting on yourself. By evaluating your core values and interests, you can ascertain whether a career is in line with your fundamental principles. It's also beneficial to consider internships and job shadowing opportunities. These offer practical experience and a sneak peek into the daily life of your potential profession.
Furthermore, think about networking and finding a mentor in your chosen field. Their advice and knowledge can be priceless. Keep in mind, it's essential to continue learning and adjusting to the constantly evolving job market. I personally strive to learn something new every day to keep my mind alert and my possibilities diverse. Adam, it's entirely normal to investigate various routes. Being adaptable is the secret to discovering the best match for your abilities and interests.
Lastly, I suggest you consider career counseling or participate in professional development workshops. These can offer tailored guidance and introduce you to a range of sectors, expanding your knowledge of possible career paths. Remember to set achievable goals, establish long-term objectives, and place importance on satisfaction in your career journey. This will reassure you that change and personal development are natural parts of the process. By remaining open to exploration, seeking advice, and focusing on your long-term happiness, you'll be able to successfully steer your career path, Adam.
Furthermore, think about networking and finding a mentor in your chosen field. Their advice and knowledge can be priceless. Keep in mind, it's essential to continue learning and adjusting to the constantly evolving job market. I personally strive to learn something new every day to keep my mind alert and my possibilities diverse. Adam, it's entirely normal to investigate various routes. Being adaptable is the secret to discovering the best match for your abilities and interests.
Lastly, I suggest you consider career counseling or participate in professional development workshops. These can offer tailored guidance and introduce you to a range of sectors, expanding your knowledge of possible career paths. Remember to set achievable goals, establish long-term objectives, and place importance on satisfaction in your career journey. This will reassure you that change and personal development are natural parts of the process. By remaining open to exploration, seeking advice, and focusing on your long-term happiness, you'll be able to successfully steer your career path, Adam.
Dr Fisch
Flight Attendant
34
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Why not go for it all?! Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and you never know when a golden opportunity might come knocking. Be ready to seize it when it does. Remember, we are all complex beings with a myriad of talents waiting to be discovered. You can nurture and grow these talents simultaneously. The more skills you master, the more intriguing you become to those around you. Society often tries to fit us into neat boxes, but you have the power to shatter these constraints by showcasing your diverse abilities.
Cultivate your skills in line with your passions. Who knows, you might stumble upon a chance to transform your passion into a profession. Your other talents won't fade away; they'll become enjoyable pastimes that you pursue purely for pleasure, not profit. Life is unpredictable, and you might find yourself transitioning from one career to another as you get older. Moreover, your talents can merge to forge a unique career path. Consider the world of theatre, where athleticism and singing prowess often go hand in hand. Or think about the realms of math and computer science, which frequently intersect. Even classical composers often leaned on mathematical principles to craft their masterpieces.
The key takeaway is this: never abandon your varied interests in favor of a singular focus. Make room in your life for all the things you love and excel at.
Cultivate your skills in line with your passions. Who knows, you might stumble upon a chance to transform your passion into a profession. Your other talents won't fade away; they'll become enjoyable pastimes that you pursue purely for pleasure, not profit. Life is unpredictable, and you might find yourself transitioning from one career to another as you get older. Moreover, your talents can merge to forge a unique career path. Consider the world of theatre, where athleticism and singing prowess often go hand in hand. Or think about the realms of math and computer science, which frequently intersect. Even classical composers often leaned on mathematical principles to craft their masterpieces.
The key takeaway is this: never abandon your varied interests in favor of a singular focus. Make room in your life for all the things you love and excel at.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Adam
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1816
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear a wide range of interest. You may need to shortlist 1-2 careers.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Find out the careers you have interest, e.g. Athlete, Sports Management, Developer, Computer Engineer, Accountant, Engineer, Financial Analyst, Singer, Musician, Musical Artist, Music Composer, Music Producer, etc. You can find out more related careers online.
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, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Find out the careers you have interest, e.g. Athlete, Sports Management, Developer, Computer Engineer, Accountant, Engineer, Financial Analyst, Singer, Musician, Musical Artist, Music Composer, Music Producer, etc. You can find out more related careers online.
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, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Misha D'Andrea
Learning + Development
37
Answers
New York, NY
Updated
Misha’s Answer
Start with your skill strengths, then expand the applicability of the skill in actual career roles. Have mentorship conversations. Read autobiographies to learn how famous people found their paths. Always follow your passions - interests. “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.
-Courtesy of Cloudera new hires: Joel, Jeff, and Soubhik
Find someone within your network (friends, parents, family members, teachers) that may know someone in the field you are interested in.
Ask to shadow someone in their daily activities.
-Courtesy of Cloudera new hires: Joel, Jeff, and Soubhik
Misha recommends the following next steps:
Chance Monroe
Finance Analyst
1
Answer
Annapolis Junction, Maryland
Updated
Chance’s Answer
Throughout life, your interests will naturally evolve and shift. Embrace this change and dare to explore every opportunity that comes your way, both in your professional and personal life, including your hobbies and sports.
As a student, your primary focus is understandably on your career path. It's clear that you shine in Mathematics and Computer Science, so why not harness this strength? Keep up the good work in maintaining your grades, but also remember to connect with mentors in your field. This will help you gain valuable insights and open doors to new opportunities. Remember, academic success is important, but building a strong network can be a game-changer in carving out a successful career.
As a student, your primary focus is understandably on your career path. It's clear that you shine in Mathematics and Computer Science, so why not harness this strength? Keep up the good work in maintaining your grades, but also remember to connect with mentors in your field. This will help you gain valuable insights and open doors to new opportunities. Remember, academic success is important, but building a strong network can be a game-changer in carving out a successful career.
Andres Villasenor
Process engineer and Product Manager
2
Answers
Guadalajara
Updated
Andres’s Answer
The perfect career comes at the intersection of three things: what you value, what you are good at and what the world values.
Asking yourself what you enjoy is superficial—most of us only enjoy these things for short periods, or when there’s no stress or pressure put on us. The better question is “What do you value?” Because if you value what you’re doing, not only will you enjoy it, but you will also find it meaningful even when it becomes difficult. And having meaning is key to pushing through the hard times. In order to find out what you value you can ask yourself these questions:
-WHAT’S A BIG PROBLEM IN THE WORLD THAT MOST PEOPLE DON’T CARE ENOUGH ABOUT?
-WHAT PROBLEMS DO I ENJOY SOLVING THAT MOST PEOPLE DON’T ENJOY?
-WHERE DO I NATURALLY SPEND MY THOUGHTS AND ENERGY WHEN LEFT TO MY OWN DEVICES?
Having an idea of what you value in your life gets you in the right ballpark, but if you’re going to find the perfect career, you also need to be good at what you do. You might have some technical skills you already know you’re “good” at. That’s an obvious place to start, and if any of those skills are aligned with what you value, you’re one step closer to finding the perfect career for yourself.
For example, let’s say you’re good at math, setting up complicated spreadsheets, analyzing budgets, and overall you do a good job managing your money. If you’re someone who also values personal finance and money management, you might make a great financial planner.
Think of the soft skills you’re good at and how might apply them to a given career. Are you good with people? Are you very organized and detailed-oriented? Can you manage projects and expectations well?
The final step in figuring out how you’ll get paid.
If you find something to do that you value and you’re good at it but you don’t get paid, that’s a hobby, not a career. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with having hobbies. In fact, we all need something in our lives that we do for the pure and simple pleasure of doing it. But that doesn’t put food or get your bills paid. You get paid based on the value you add to the world. So what does the world value enough to pay you for?
There are two ways to go about this:
1. Take what you value and your strengths and look for market opportunities already present in the world.
2. Take your values and talents and look for where the market is under-serving the world and create something new to fill that gap.
Whichever path you choose—a job or the entrepreneurial route—make sure you’re choosing it for the right reasons. There’s been an explosion of the “be your own boss” culture and entrepreneur worship in recent years. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with getting paid to work for someone else doing a job you like. And some people don’t like taking on big risks or they’re in situations where they can’t take big risks, like supporting a family.
Don’t run off and quit your job to start a business with a half-baked idea because you think it will make you look cool or smart. If you’re going to do it, do it because you see a need you can fill and you’re in it for the long haul. If you don’t have major obligations, like a family who depends on you for their survival at the moment, and you can stomach the uncertainty that goes along with being an entrepreneur, then go with it. You only live once, right? And life is too short to be stuck doing what you don’t find fulfilling or meaningful.
Asking yourself what you enjoy is superficial—most of us only enjoy these things for short periods, or when there’s no stress or pressure put on us. The better question is “What do you value?” Because if you value what you’re doing, not only will you enjoy it, but you will also find it meaningful even when it becomes difficult. And having meaning is key to pushing through the hard times. In order to find out what you value you can ask yourself these questions:
-WHAT’S A BIG PROBLEM IN THE WORLD THAT MOST PEOPLE DON’T CARE ENOUGH ABOUT?
-WHAT PROBLEMS DO I ENJOY SOLVING THAT MOST PEOPLE DON’T ENJOY?
-WHERE DO I NATURALLY SPEND MY THOUGHTS AND ENERGY WHEN LEFT TO MY OWN DEVICES?
Having an idea of what you value in your life gets you in the right ballpark, but if you’re going to find the perfect career, you also need to be good at what you do. You might have some technical skills you already know you’re “good” at. That’s an obvious place to start, and if any of those skills are aligned with what you value, you’re one step closer to finding the perfect career for yourself.
For example, let’s say you’re good at math, setting up complicated spreadsheets, analyzing budgets, and overall you do a good job managing your money. If you’re someone who also values personal finance and money management, you might make a great financial planner.
Think of the soft skills you’re good at and how might apply them to a given career. Are you good with people? Are you very organized and detailed-oriented? Can you manage projects and expectations well?
The final step in figuring out how you’ll get paid.
If you find something to do that you value and you’re good at it but you don’t get paid, that’s a hobby, not a career. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with having hobbies. In fact, we all need something in our lives that we do for the pure and simple pleasure of doing it. But that doesn’t put food or get your bills paid. You get paid based on the value you add to the world. So what does the world value enough to pay you for?
There are two ways to go about this:
1. Take what you value and your strengths and look for market opportunities already present in the world.
2. Take your values and talents and look for where the market is under-serving the world and create something new to fill that gap.
Whichever path you choose—a job or the entrepreneurial route—make sure you’re choosing it for the right reasons. There’s been an explosion of the “be your own boss” culture and entrepreneur worship in recent years. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with getting paid to work for someone else doing a job you like. And some people don’t like taking on big risks or they’re in situations where they can’t take big risks, like supporting a family.
Don’t run off and quit your job to start a business with a half-baked idea because you think it will make you look cool or smart. If you’re going to do it, do it because you see a need you can fill and you’re in it for the long haul. If you don’t have major obligations, like a family who depends on you for their survival at the moment, and you can stomach the uncertainty that goes along with being an entrepreneur, then go with it. You only live once, right? And life is too short to be stuck doing what you don’t find fulfilling or meaningful.
Thank you, Andres for the advice.
Adam