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What should my major be Lawyer, pharmacist, producer.?
I pretty much have 3 options I've narrowed it down to. Lawyer, pharmacist, music producer. Lawyer because I like to argue & I'm pretty good with backing up my reasons + they make a good amount of money, but it is possible it won't work out because I can't find a good law firm to work for. Pharmacists because they make a good amount of money no matter where you work. Music producer because I love music and making music (specifically beats for rap & I love rap/hip-hop in general) & I'd love to learn more about music theory, but I'm a female and if you aren't successful, I might lose a lot of money. In the end is it up to me and my desires or should I focus on the success rate & money?
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7 answers
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Kelly’s Answer
Every job, particularly those that are well-paying, comes with its own set of risks. However, it's crucial to have a genuine interest in your chosen field, otherwise, you may not find true satisfaction in your role. For instance, I spent three years pursuing a degree in music education before deciding to switch both my school and major. If you're considering a similar path, I'd strongly advise you to research the entry requirements of your chosen school beforehand. Many prospective students overlook this step and miss important deadlines.
In every music school, regardless of your chosen specialty (education, composition, jazz, business, etc.), you're required to audition either with a major instrument or your voice. Vocalists are expected to perform in various languages, while instrumentalists are often asked to present 2-3 contrasting styles. Both groups are also required to demonstrate their sight-reading abilities in front of a panel, and take a theory test. For about 70% of the programs, I had to show evidence of at least four years of private instruction on my primary instrument.
Interestingly, competition tends to be less intense for less common, or "niche," instruments. In my experience, oboe, bassoon, harp, lute, viola, and double bass players often faced more relaxed entry requirements. However, this could vary depending on the region. If you didn't receive a strong musical foundation in high school, the entrance audition process could be quite challenging, which often discourages many potential students.
By 2024, my region is expected to have a high demand for pharmacists and associate-level professionals. However, the numbers have declined compared to the constant demand we used to experience. The field is quite diverse, as Aimee pointed out, and offers opportunities for advancement all the way up to the doctoral level. Those I know who left the field were generally dissatisfied with the working hours, disagreed with the missions of large companies, or had ethical conflicts with research.
The legal field, on the other hand, is consistently advertising for injury and malpractice cases, while areas like labor relations and criminal law tend to only make headlines when a major news story breaks.
In every music school, regardless of your chosen specialty (education, composition, jazz, business, etc.), you're required to audition either with a major instrument or your voice. Vocalists are expected to perform in various languages, while instrumentalists are often asked to present 2-3 contrasting styles. Both groups are also required to demonstrate their sight-reading abilities in front of a panel, and take a theory test. For about 70% of the programs, I had to show evidence of at least four years of private instruction on my primary instrument.
Interestingly, competition tends to be less intense for less common, or "niche," instruments. In my experience, oboe, bassoon, harp, lute, viola, and double bass players often faced more relaxed entry requirements. However, this could vary depending on the region. If you didn't receive a strong musical foundation in high school, the entrance audition process could be quite challenging, which often discourages many potential students.
By 2024, my region is expected to have a high demand for pharmacists and associate-level professionals. However, the numbers have declined compared to the constant demand we used to experience. The field is quite diverse, as Aimee pointed out, and offers opportunities for advancement all the way up to the doctoral level. Those I know who left the field were generally dissatisfied with the working hours, disagreed with the missions of large companies, or had ethical conflicts with research.
The legal field, on the other hand, is consistently advertising for injury and malpractice cases, while areas like labor relations and criminal law tend to only make headlines when a major news story breaks.
Thank you!
Kristin
Steve Jacobson
Creative Leader/Content Creator/Producer/Editor/Storyteller
51
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Steve’s Answer
You're blessed with a wide array of options...
Think of your chosen field as a space where you'll be investing a significant portion of your time. You've mentioned your fondness for "debating"... but remember, there's more to being a lawyer than just that. You're also into hip-hop and rap... Have you pondered where that might lead you in the next 5-10 years? How sustainable do you believe a career in that domain could be? You're also contemplating a career in pharmacy, which might seem like a 'convenient choice' for you. But do you truly adore it beyond the 'lucrative earnings'?
Here's my two cents -
If the idea of being a lawyer intrigues you, why not pursue a law degree and venture into the music industry? You could manage and develop talent, or work for a music company handling their contract negotiations. You could also continue creating music on the side to keep your artistic spirit thriving.
Alternatively, you could earn your law degree and assist pharmaceutical companies in avoiding legal issues arising from their medications' side effects. You could still pursue your music passion on the side...
There are numerous innovative ways to intertwine all three of your interests if they truly ignite your enthusiasm. Don't just pursue the financial aspect. True success, in all its forms, will naturally gravitate towards you if you're immersed in your passion.
I hope this advice proves beneficial. Wishing you all the best.
Think of your chosen field as a space where you'll be investing a significant portion of your time. You've mentioned your fondness for "debating"... but remember, there's more to being a lawyer than just that. You're also into hip-hop and rap... Have you pondered where that might lead you in the next 5-10 years? How sustainable do you believe a career in that domain could be? You're also contemplating a career in pharmacy, which might seem like a 'convenient choice' for you. But do you truly adore it beyond the 'lucrative earnings'?
Here's my two cents -
If the idea of being a lawyer intrigues you, why not pursue a law degree and venture into the music industry? You could manage and develop talent, or work for a music company handling their contract negotiations. You could also continue creating music on the side to keep your artistic spirit thriving.
Alternatively, you could earn your law degree and assist pharmaceutical companies in avoiding legal issues arising from their medications' side effects. You could still pursue your music passion on the side...
There are numerous innovative ways to intertwine all three of your interests if they truly ignite your enthusiasm. Don't just pursue the financial aspect. True success, in all its forms, will naturally gravitate towards you if you're immersed in your passion.
I hope this advice proves beneficial. Wishing you all the best.
I hadn't thought about incorporating my different interests together, thank you for this idea!
Kristin
What a cool idea, Steve. Pursue a law degree and go into music entertainment law. Amazing idea.
Shea Winpigler
Updated
Aimee’s Answer
I've been a pharmacist for 24 years. I've not ever worked retail and I've mostly worked in non-traditional areas of pharmacy. It is a great career option for a female. I've worked in veterinary pharmacy, rural hospital/clinic pharmacy and done consulting (educating elderly patients in their homes regarding their medications trying to prevent hospital readmissions.) That being said, the current pharmacy world is very much changing. But I believe there are bigger things to come for the world of pharmacy, than just traditional "dispensing" that everyone thinks about. A lawyer would be a good career too. There are many ways to practice law. I can't speak to a music career.
Thank you!
Kristin
Of course! You can pursue pharmacy or law and then pursue music as your passion project? You don't have to abandon that. But income and success with a music career can be so variable.
For me, as a female, I wanted to have the option to be financially independent and always be able to support myself with an income. But these priorities are different for everyone. What was right for me, might not be right for you & your situation. Best of luck to you!
Aimee Turcotte, PharmD, BCGP, CMWA
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
I'm a female as well.. What do you like to do most? I am about to have an associates in music production, and there is a lot to learn. Does music interest you as more as a hobby or career? There are some tools to teach you some steps about music production online. Just weigh out options
But I would say Go Be A Lawyer!!!, that's also an interest of mine !! Good luck !!
But I would say Go Be A Lawyer!!!, that's also an interest of mine !! Good luck !!
Thanks for your encouragement!
Kristin
Updated
John’s Answer
The truth is it's tough to make money in music at first so it's good to have a regular job to "pay the bills" and also do as much music as you can on the side while you develop your skills.
I would recommend pharmacist despite projections that the career will slow down somewhat in the future. Pharmacists typically enjoy a comfortable annual salary. This can be very important in your decision to pursue a degree in pharmacy, especially if you need to apply for student loans. The average salary across the board for pharmacists is $128,710, although this amount can vary based on specialization or state.
I would also recommend putting yourself out there on some of the music gig sites like Fiverr, Airgigs, or Soundbetter. As a music producer myself, I regularly hire from these sites and it could be a good way for you to develop your skills and get used to meeting customer requirements and deadlines.
Whatever you decide, don't give up on music if it's what you really love. I started out as a musician in school, and then had to go in the military and wound up staying for a career in the Navy once I had a family. But I always nurtured my music and eventually got to do it full time. Honestly I would do music for nothing because I find it so satisfying. But you have to have a basic income to live on. Good luck!
I would recommend pharmacist despite projections that the career will slow down somewhat in the future. Pharmacists typically enjoy a comfortable annual salary. This can be very important in your decision to pursue a degree in pharmacy, especially if you need to apply for student loans. The average salary across the board for pharmacists is $128,710, although this amount can vary based on specialization or state.
I would also recommend putting yourself out there on some of the music gig sites like Fiverr, Airgigs, or Soundbetter. As a music producer myself, I regularly hire from these sites and it could be a good way for you to develop your skills and get used to meeting customer requirements and deadlines.
Whatever you decide, don't give up on music if it's what you really love. I started out as a musician in school, and then had to go in the military and wound up staying for a career in the Navy once I had a family. But I always nurtured my music and eventually got to do it full time. Honestly I would do music for nothing because I find it so satisfying. But you have to have a basic income to live on. Good luck!
This was super helpful, thank you!
Kristin
Updated
Hadil’s Answer
I will start my answer with words of a wise woman post: " make what you are passionate about your career, what makes you gain money a side hassle, and what skills that make you unique an added value in the market I.e. profitable skills".
As a pharmacist you can sure make a reasonable arguments if you seek research careers for example because research in general based on hypothesis confirmation or rejection. There are wide variety of options to go for from clinical to managerial and academic institution.
But beside that I want to tell you that any career can be competitive and needs from you to be proactive and passionate about what you do even if you have no job but actively working on yourself till the opportunity shows itself.
I think you should know yourself more because music, law, and pharmacy are very different from each other. Do you love music, science, laws, chemistry, biology, arts ...etc. ask yourself what is the thing that you can do everyday? What's your life purpose? You can take mbti test and know the proper career for you.
Note: did you think of art therapy career, sounds interesting!!
As a pharmacist you can sure make a reasonable arguments if you seek research careers for example because research in general based on hypothesis confirmation or rejection. There are wide variety of options to go for from clinical to managerial and academic institution.
But beside that I want to tell you that any career can be competitive and needs from you to be proactive and passionate about what you do even if you have no job but actively working on yourself till the opportunity shows itself.
I think you should know yourself more because music, law, and pharmacy are very different from each other. Do you love music, science, laws, chemistry, biology, arts ...etc. ask yourself what is the thing that you can do everyday? What's your life purpose? You can take mbti test and know the proper career for you.
Note: did you think of art therapy career, sounds interesting!!
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Kristin
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6179
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kristen,
Action Plan for Choosing a Major
As you deliberate on your choice of a major, it's crucial to weigh several factors like your personal interests, abilities, financial prospects, and future career opportunities. The options you're considering - law, pharmacy, and music production - each come with their own unique benefits and challenges. Let's dissect each one to aid you in making a well-informed decision.
Law:
Interest: If you have a knack for debating and can effectively articulate your points, a career in law could be a great match for you.
Financial Prospects: Lawyers often enjoy a substantial income, especially those affiliated with esteemed law firms or those specializing in high-demand legal sectors.
Challenges: The quest for the right law firm can be competitive, and the legal profession can be demanding in terms of workload and stress.
Pharmacy:
Financial Prospects: Pharmacists usually have a steady income, irrespective of their place of work. The healthcare industry's ongoing growth ensures a robust demand for pharmacists.
Challenges: The educational path to becoming a pharmacist is intense, and the job may require long hours standing at the counter.
Music Production:
Interest: If you're passionate about music production and love crafting beats for rap/hip-hop music, this path could provide creative satisfaction.
Learning Opportunity: Being a music producer lets you dive deep into music theory and broaden your knowledge in the field.
Challenges: The music industry's success can be erratic, and financial stability isn't guaranteed. It might take a while to make your mark as a successful music producer.
Decision-Making Factors: In selecting your major, it's vital to find a balance between your interests and practical aspects like job prospects and financial stability. Ponder over these points:
Passion: Opt for a major that resonates with your interests and passions, as this will ensure you remain motivated and involved in your studies and future career.
Market Demand: Investigate the job market for each profession to gauge the demand for professionals in that field. This can provide insights into potential job openings post-graduation.
Financial Considerations: While earning potential matters, it shouldn't be the only factor influencing your decision. Think about how content you'll be in your chosen career beyond just the financial gains.
In the end, your decision should strike a balance between what you love doing and what promises stability and growth opportunities in the long term.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers extensive data on employment trends, salary specifics, and job outlook for various professions, including lawyers, pharmacists, and music producers.
American Bar Association (ABA): A trusted source for information on legal careers, offering insights into the legal job market and factors impacting lawyers' professional success.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP): ASHP provides valuable resources on pharmacy careers, education prerequisites, industry trends, and job prospects for pharmacists.
Blessings,
JC.
Action Plan for Choosing a Major
As you deliberate on your choice of a major, it's crucial to weigh several factors like your personal interests, abilities, financial prospects, and future career opportunities. The options you're considering - law, pharmacy, and music production - each come with their own unique benefits and challenges. Let's dissect each one to aid you in making a well-informed decision.
Law:
Interest: If you have a knack for debating and can effectively articulate your points, a career in law could be a great match for you.
Financial Prospects: Lawyers often enjoy a substantial income, especially those affiliated with esteemed law firms or those specializing in high-demand legal sectors.
Challenges: The quest for the right law firm can be competitive, and the legal profession can be demanding in terms of workload and stress.
Pharmacy:
Financial Prospects: Pharmacists usually have a steady income, irrespective of their place of work. The healthcare industry's ongoing growth ensures a robust demand for pharmacists.
Challenges: The educational path to becoming a pharmacist is intense, and the job may require long hours standing at the counter.
Music Production:
Interest: If you're passionate about music production and love crafting beats for rap/hip-hop music, this path could provide creative satisfaction.
Learning Opportunity: Being a music producer lets you dive deep into music theory and broaden your knowledge in the field.
Challenges: The music industry's success can be erratic, and financial stability isn't guaranteed. It might take a while to make your mark as a successful music producer.
Decision-Making Factors: In selecting your major, it's vital to find a balance between your interests and practical aspects like job prospects and financial stability. Ponder over these points:
Passion: Opt for a major that resonates with your interests and passions, as this will ensure you remain motivated and involved in your studies and future career.
Market Demand: Investigate the job market for each profession to gauge the demand for professionals in that field. This can provide insights into potential job openings post-graduation.
Financial Considerations: While earning potential matters, it shouldn't be the only factor influencing your decision. Think about how content you'll be in your chosen career beyond just the financial gains.
In the end, your decision should strike a balance between what you love doing and what promises stability and growth opportunities in the long term.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers extensive data on employment trends, salary specifics, and job outlook for various professions, including lawyers, pharmacists, and music producers.
American Bar Association (ABA): A trusted source for information on legal careers, offering insights into the legal job market and factors impacting lawyers' professional success.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP): ASHP provides valuable resources on pharmacy careers, education prerequisites, industry trends, and job prospects for pharmacists.
Blessings,
JC.