9 answers
Odunayo
Student
1
Question
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How can I decide or choose a career if I have many interests and hobbies?
I have an interest in writing and enjoy literature but I also want to dive into the sciences. This is making the decision quite tough for me right now
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9 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6338
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Odunayo,
Choosing a Career with Multiple Interests and Hobbies
When faced with the dilemma of having multiple interests and hobbies that span across different fields like writing and sciences, it can indeed be challenging to decide on a single career path. However, there are several steps you can take to navigate this decision-making process effectively:
1. Self-Reflection and Assessment: Begin by reflecting on your strengths, values, and long-term goals. Consider what aspects of writing and literature appeal to you and what fascinates you about the sciences. Understanding your preferences can help you align your career choice with your passions.
2. Research Career Options: Explore various career paths within both writing/literature and the sciences. Look into job descriptions, required skills, educational qualifications, potential growth opportunities, and work environments for each field. This research can provide valuable insights into which path resonates with you the most.
3. Seek Guidance from Professionals: Consider reaching out to professionals working in fields that interest you. Conduct informational interviews or job shadowing experiences to gain firsthand knowledge about what a typical day looks like in these careers. Their experiences can offer practical insights into whether a particular field aligns with your expectations.
4. Consider Hybrid Careers: If you find it challenging to choose between writing/literature and the sciences, explore hybrid career options that combine elements from both fields. For instance, science communication, technical writing in scientific industries, or science journalism could be avenues where you can leverage your diverse interests.
5. Gain Practical Experience: Internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs can provide hands-on experience in both writing-related roles and scientific environments. Engaging in practical experiences can help you test the waters and determine which field feels more fulfilling and rewarding to you.
6. Continuing Education: If necessary, consider pursuing further education or certifications in either field to enhance your skills and knowledge base. Additional education can open up new opportunities and clarify your career path based on where your interests align most strongly.
7. Evaluate Long-Term Prospects: Think about the long-term prospects of each career choice in terms of job stability, growth potential, salary expectations, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment. Assessing how each path aligns with your future aspirations can guide you towards making an informed decision.
In conclusion, choosing a career when you have diverse interests requires thoughtful consideration, self-assessment, research, practical experience, and guidance from professionals in the respective fields. By taking these steps systematically, you can narrow down your options and make a well-informed decision that aligns with your passions and goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review provides insightful articles on career development strategies, decision-making processes related to career choices, and tips for navigating complex career dilemmas.
The Muse: The Muse is a reputable platform offering expert advice on career planning, exploring different job sectors, finding one’s passion in work, and making informed decisions about career paths.
Forbes: Forbes is known for its comprehensive coverage of various industries, including tips on choosing a career path that aligns with one’s interests and strengths while considering future trends in the job market.
God Bless You,
JC.
Choosing a Career with Multiple Interests and Hobbies
When faced with the dilemma of having multiple interests and hobbies that span across different fields like writing and sciences, it can indeed be challenging to decide on a single career path. However, there are several steps you can take to navigate this decision-making process effectively:
1. Self-Reflection and Assessment: Begin by reflecting on your strengths, values, and long-term goals. Consider what aspects of writing and literature appeal to you and what fascinates you about the sciences. Understanding your preferences can help you align your career choice with your passions.
2. Research Career Options: Explore various career paths within both writing/literature and the sciences. Look into job descriptions, required skills, educational qualifications, potential growth opportunities, and work environments for each field. This research can provide valuable insights into which path resonates with you the most.
3. Seek Guidance from Professionals: Consider reaching out to professionals working in fields that interest you. Conduct informational interviews or job shadowing experiences to gain firsthand knowledge about what a typical day looks like in these careers. Their experiences can offer practical insights into whether a particular field aligns with your expectations.
4. Consider Hybrid Careers: If you find it challenging to choose between writing/literature and the sciences, explore hybrid career options that combine elements from both fields. For instance, science communication, technical writing in scientific industries, or science journalism could be avenues where you can leverage your diverse interests.
5. Gain Practical Experience: Internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs can provide hands-on experience in both writing-related roles and scientific environments. Engaging in practical experiences can help you test the waters and determine which field feels more fulfilling and rewarding to you.
6. Continuing Education: If necessary, consider pursuing further education or certifications in either field to enhance your skills and knowledge base. Additional education can open up new opportunities and clarify your career path based on where your interests align most strongly.
7. Evaluate Long-Term Prospects: Think about the long-term prospects of each career choice in terms of job stability, growth potential, salary expectations, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment. Assessing how each path aligns with your future aspirations can guide you towards making an informed decision.
In conclusion, choosing a career when you have diverse interests requires thoughtful consideration, self-assessment, research, practical experience, and guidance from professionals in the respective fields. By taking these steps systematically, you can narrow down your options and make a well-informed decision that aligns with your passions and goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review provides insightful articles on career development strategies, decision-making processes related to career choices, and tips for navigating complex career dilemmas.
The Muse: The Muse is a reputable platform offering expert advice on career planning, exploring different job sectors, finding one’s passion in work, and making informed decisions about career paths.
Forbes: Forbes is known for its comprehensive coverage of various industries, including tips on choosing a career path that aligns with one’s interests and strengths while considering future trends in the job market.
God Bless You,
JC.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1858
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. I have glad to hear that you have a wide variety of interest.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about the careers related to your interest.
E.g If you like writing and literature, would you like to be a writer, journalist, editor, social media manager, editor, English teacher, etc.
If you have interest in Science, would you like to be Science Teacher, Biologist, Zoologist, Physician, Engineer, Chemist, Biochemistry Engineer, Pharmacist, etc.
You can find out more 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, our parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about the careers related to your interest.
E.g If you like writing and literature, would you like to be a writer, journalist, editor, social media manager, editor, English teacher, etc.
If you have interest in Science, would you like to be Science Teacher, Biologist, Zoologist, Physician, Engineer, Chemist, Biochemistry Engineer, Pharmacist, etc.
You can find out more 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, our parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Maria "Marylou" Avalos-RACR, CSM
Sr. Recruiter
17
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Maria "Marylou"’s Answer
Start by envisioning your dream, then figure out what skills and education you'll need to achieve it. If it's feasible, go for it! If not, consider a related field, like transitioning from aspiring to be an astronaut to becoming a rocket scientist or even a cosmologist.
So, choose a career idea and give it a test run. Ask yourself: Can I acquire the necessary knowledge or qualifications? What would my daily life look like? Where would I need to live? Best of luck! Remember, life is a journey. Start with the first step and keep moving forward. Don't worry if you don't end up where you initially planned. If you're passionate, you'll find success, even if it's in a field you didn't initially consider.
So, choose a career idea and give it a test run. Ask yourself: Can I acquire the necessary knowledge or qualifications? What would my daily life look like? Where would I need to live? Best of luck! Remember, life is a journey. Start with the first step and keep moving forward. Don't worry if you don't end up where you initially planned. If you're passionate, you'll find success, even if it's in a field you didn't initially consider.
Andy Hampshire
customer Success
3
Answers
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Andy’s Answer
Choosing a career isn't always straightforward. Many people find themselves in a profession due to circumstances, their location, their abilities, their education, or simply through connections. It's wonderful to have a dream, but it's equally important to have a backup plan. For instance, you might aspire to be an astronaut, but the opportunities are limited. However, you could consider being a rocket scientist instead.
Start by envisioning your dream, then figure out what skills and education you'll need to achieve it. If it's feasible, go for it! If not, think about a related field, like transitioning from aspiring to be an astronaut to becoming a rocket scientist or even a cosmologist.
It's also okay if you don't enjoy the first career you try. For example, being an astronaut might not be the best fit if you're afraid of heights or falling.
So, choose a career idea and give it a test run. Ask yourself: Can I acquire the necessary knowledge or qualifications? What would my daily life look like? Where would I need to live? Best of luck! Remember, life is a journey. Start with the first step and keep moving forward. Don't worry if you don't end up where you initially planned. If you're passionate, you'll find success, even if it's in a field you didn't initially consider.
Start by envisioning your dream, then figure out what skills and education you'll need to achieve it. If it's feasible, go for it! If not, think about a related field, like transitioning from aspiring to be an astronaut to becoming a rocket scientist or even a cosmologist.
It's also okay if you don't enjoy the first career you try. For example, being an astronaut might not be the best fit if you're afraid of heights or falling.
So, choose a career idea and give it a test run. Ask yourself: Can I acquire the necessary knowledge or qualifications? What would my daily life look like? Where would I need to live? Best of luck! Remember, life is a journey. Start with the first step and keep moving forward. Don't worry if you don't end up where you initially planned. If you're passionate, you'll find success, even if it's in a field you didn't initially consider.
Jennifer Jackson
Film Director
79
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Odunayo
Having diverse interests and hobbies can certainly make choosing a career path feel like a daunting task. However, there are ways to integrate multiple passions into a fulfilling career:
1. Explore Multidisciplinary Fields: Seek out career paths that allow you to blend your interests. For example, careers in scientific writing, science journalism, or science communication can bridge the gap between writing and the sciences.
2. Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals who have careers that integrate literature and the sciences. Learning about their experiences can provide insights into how your passions can intersect in a career setting.
3. Academic and Career Counseling: Speak with academic advisors, career counselors, or mentors who can help you navigate your multiple interests and guide you towards career paths that encompass both literature and the sciences.
4. Internships and Externships: Pursue internships or externships in fields that merge your passions. Hands-on experience can provide clarity on how your interests manifest in professional settings.
5. Volunteering and Extracurricular Activities: Engage in volunteer work or extracurricular activities that align with your areas of interest. This exposure can help you discern what aspects of literature and the sciences resonate most with you.
6. Education and Skill Development: Consider pursuing a major that allows for flexibility and exploration of both literature and the sciences. Additionally, acquiring skills in communication, research, and critical thinking can be beneficial across a range of career paths.
7. Personal Projects: Initiate personal projects that blend your interests, such as writing about scientific topics or incorporating literary elements into scientific communication.
It's essential to remember that career paths are not always linear, and it's possible to find or create a career that incorporates multiple passions. By actively exploring and combining your interests, you can create a unique career trajectory that aligns with your diverse passions and provides fulfillment and growth.
Best of luck!
Jennifer
Having diverse interests and hobbies can certainly make choosing a career path feel like a daunting task. However, there are ways to integrate multiple passions into a fulfilling career:
1. Explore Multidisciplinary Fields: Seek out career paths that allow you to blend your interests. For example, careers in scientific writing, science journalism, or science communication can bridge the gap between writing and the sciences.
2. Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals who have careers that integrate literature and the sciences. Learning about their experiences can provide insights into how your passions can intersect in a career setting.
3. Academic and Career Counseling: Speak with academic advisors, career counselors, or mentors who can help you navigate your multiple interests and guide you towards career paths that encompass both literature and the sciences.
4. Internships and Externships: Pursue internships or externships in fields that merge your passions. Hands-on experience can provide clarity on how your interests manifest in professional settings.
5. Volunteering and Extracurricular Activities: Engage in volunteer work or extracurricular activities that align with your areas of interest. This exposure can help you discern what aspects of literature and the sciences resonate most with you.
6. Education and Skill Development: Consider pursuing a major that allows for flexibility and exploration of both literature and the sciences. Additionally, acquiring skills in communication, research, and critical thinking can be beneficial across a range of career paths.
7. Personal Projects: Initiate personal projects that blend your interests, such as writing about scientific topics or incorporating literary elements into scientific communication.
It's essential to remember that career paths are not always linear, and it's possible to find or create a career that incorporates multiple passions. By actively exploring and combining your interests, you can create a unique career trajectory that aligns with your diverse passions and provides fulfillment and growth.
Best of luck!
Jennifer
Kimberly Charbneau
Photographer
27
Answers
Ohio, Ohio
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Writing is something I’ve done since the age of ten and still haven’t published my first book. It’s a craft that takes time, sometimes years. But keep pursuing if it’s your passion. Until then though, I would think about something in science that may be a little more stable, both financially and career wise as far as growth and opportunity. Not to dismiss writing, but having both a major and a minor I think would be a good starting point. Science is a very general topic with many possibilities depending on whether you’re looking at biology, engineering, pharmaceutical work, nursing… the list goes on. Seek a counselor at the college you’re looking to attend and see what options there are and make a list of all the skills you have that would apply. Take those two options and you’ll have a better understanding of what to pursue and where you see yourself going with that.
Robson Viselli
Customer Success
2
Answers
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Robson’s Answer
Hello Odunayo,
This is a query we encounter quite often. A practical way to tackle this is to base your choices on your unique talents. The idea behind this is simple - if you possess the talent or skill for a certain job, you're more likely to excel at it, leading to a successful career.
So, my advice would be to begin by recognizing your strong suits - be it writing, numerical skills, logical thinking, communication, problem-solving, research, biology, arts, and so on. Once you've identified your strengths, you can then explore your areas of interest where these strengths can be applied effectively.
You can delve deeper into these areas, seeking jobs that not only pique your interest but also align with your strengths. You can then conduct a thorough research on the roles and responsibilities these jobs entail, as well as the reputable companies or institutions that offer them. Consider factors such as reputation, benefits, and career progression in your research.
I hope this guidance proves useful to you. Wishing you all the best in your endeavors!
Robson
This is a query we encounter quite often. A practical way to tackle this is to base your choices on your unique talents. The idea behind this is simple - if you possess the talent or skill for a certain job, you're more likely to excel at it, leading to a successful career.
So, my advice would be to begin by recognizing your strong suits - be it writing, numerical skills, logical thinking, communication, problem-solving, research, biology, arts, and so on. Once you've identified your strengths, you can then explore your areas of interest where these strengths can be applied effectively.
You can delve deeper into these areas, seeking jobs that not only pique your interest but also align with your strengths. You can then conduct a thorough research on the roles and responsibilities these jobs entail, as well as the reputable companies or institutions that offer them. Consider factors such as reputation, benefits, and career progression in your research.
I hope this guidance proves useful to you. Wishing you all the best in your endeavors!
Robson
Matthew Trull
Technical Writer
22
Answers
Thonotosassa, Florida
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
Hello Odunayo,
I agree with each of the answers before mine. Here's what I recommend:
1. Go to the major job boards, such as indeed.com, dice.com, careerbuilder.com, or LinkedIn jobs.
2. Search using keywords related to your interests and hobbies (For example: Writer, or Writing).
3 . Make a list of the different job titles in the search results.
4. Use Google to search each of the job titles.
5. Read up on the descriptions (and pros and cons if you can find them).
6. Make note of the job title(s) that interest you.
7. Perform a deeper research on each
Note: If more than one job title is interesting, perform a deeper search on each. Try to find differences in the job descriptions that make the decision easier.
8. Perform another Google search to learn if you need a college degree to pursue your career choice.
Be sure to check out Technical Writing. I had never heard of technical writing when I was looking for my career path, and now I'm a Technical Writer!
I hope this is helpful.
Regards,
Matthew Trull
I agree with each of the answers before mine. Here's what I recommend:
1. Go to the major job boards, such as indeed.com, dice.com, careerbuilder.com, or LinkedIn jobs.
2. Search using keywords related to your interests and hobbies (For example: Writer, or Writing).
3 . Make a list of the different job titles in the search results.
4. Use Google to search each of the job titles.
5. Read up on the descriptions (and pros and cons if you can find them).
6. Make note of the job title(s) that interest you.
7. Perform a deeper research on each
Note: If more than one job title is interesting, perform a deeper search on each. Try to find differences in the job descriptions that make the decision easier.
8. Perform another Google search to learn if you need a college degree to pursue your career choice.
Be sure to check out Technical Writing. I had never heard of technical writing when I was looking for my career path, and now I'm a Technical Writer!
I hope this is helpful.
Regards,
Matthew Trull
Jerry Bires
career coach
28
Answers
Carbondale, Illinois
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
All good answers above, Odunayo. My take on this for you is simple.
What are you most passionate about and interested in doing?
Objectively, how good are you at performing/doing what you are most passionate about?
Is your degree of proficiency such that you can be hired to perform/do what you are passionate about and make a living?
That's always the bottom line. Can I make a living doing what I most like to do? If so, go for it. If not, then shift gears and find another way that you can support yourself. At 74 I have held many, many jobs and one employer questioned me about my decisions, because I'd begun and then left many different professions. He couldn't know what led to my decisions, but they were clear to me. Point is you've no idea what life events and technical advances will impact you. Excellent way to advance your hopes and dreams? Gain skills in two languages.
What are you most passionate about and interested in doing?
Objectively, how good are you at performing/doing what you are most passionate about?
Is your degree of proficiency such that you can be hired to perform/do what you are passionate about and make a living?
That's always the bottom line. Can I make a living doing what I most like to do? If so, go for it. If not, then shift gears and find another way that you can support yourself. At 74 I have held many, many jobs and one employer questioned me about my decisions, because I'd begun and then left many different professions. He couldn't know what led to my decisions, but they were clear to me. Point is you've no idea what life events and technical advances will impact you. Excellent way to advance your hopes and dreams? Gain skills in two languages.