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How can I better prepare myself for the future?
I am currently a rising senior and originally I thought I wanted to be a physical therapist, but I know they do not make a lot of money. I want to be in a career where I can help people and still be able to help myself.
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9 answers
Updated
Aishwarya’s Answer
Preparing for the future involves many aspects, including your career, financial stability, personal development, and well-being. As a rising senior considering a change in career path, here are some steps you can take:
1) Identify your interests, strengths, and values. Use career assessment tools for guidance.
2) Research potential careers that align with your self-assessment. Look at job duties, education, salary, and outlook.
3) Determine what education or skills you need for your chosen career. Seek ways to develop these skills.
4) Gain firsthand experience in your field of interest to understand the practical aspects.
5) Connect with professionals in your chosen field for advice and insights.
6) Start planning for your financial future with savings, investments, and retirement plans.
7) Work on universally beneficial skills like communication, problem-solving, and leadership.
8) Take care of your physical and mental health alongside career preparation.
Remember, it's normal to change careers and not have everything figured out right now. Focus on experiences, skills, and knowledge that provide opportunities.
1) Identify your interests, strengths, and values. Use career assessment tools for guidance.
2) Research potential careers that align with your self-assessment. Look at job duties, education, salary, and outlook.
3) Determine what education or skills you need for your chosen career. Seek ways to develop these skills.
4) Gain firsthand experience in your field of interest to understand the practical aspects.
5) Connect with professionals in your chosen field for advice and insights.
6) Start planning for your financial future with savings, investments, and retirement plans.
7) Work on universally beneficial skills like communication, problem-solving, and leadership.
8) Take care of your physical and mental health alongside career preparation.
Remember, it's normal to change careers and not have everything figured out right now. Focus on experiences, skills, and knowledge that provide opportunities.
Your advice was so helpful!
Bryanna
Miyoko Bell
BFA Student/ Retired Certified Nurse Anesthetist & Army Major/
4
Answers
Updated
Miyoko’s Answer
$91 K to 120K is a substantial salary. I don’t get your question.
Hi Miyoko! Thank you for answering. Can you offer any other insight that might help Bryanna in pursuing the physical therapist path?
Sharyn Grose, Admin
Updated
Joanna Rose’s Answer
Hello Bryanna
To better prepare for the future, consider the following steps:
1.Lifelong Learning: Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in your field. Engage in continuous learning, whether through formal education, online courses, or self-study.
2.Skill Development: Identify key skills that are in high demand in your industry or the job market at large. This could include digital literacy, data analysis, or soft skills like communication and leadership.
3.Networking: Build and maintain professional relationships. Networking can open doors to opportunities and provide insights about your industry.
4.Financial Planning: It's crucial to have a financial plan for future stability. This includes saving, investing, and managing expenses wisely.
To better prepare for the future, consider the following steps:
1.Lifelong Learning: Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in your field. Engage in continuous learning, whether through formal education, online courses, or self-study.
2.Skill Development: Identify key skills that are in high demand in your industry or the job market at large. This could include digital literacy, data analysis, or soft skills like communication and leadership.
3.Networking: Build and maintain professional relationships. Networking can open doors to opportunities and provide insights about your industry.
4.Financial Planning: It's crucial to have a financial plan for future stability. This includes saving, investing, and managing expenses wisely.
Thank you, Joanna Rose for the advice.
Bryanna
Updated
D'Mauri’s Answer
Empower yourself for a successful future by diving deep into research. This will enable you to gain a clearer understanding of potential scenarios in your life or career. In my opinion, research is a powerful tool that can benefit many. Although it might seem tedious, and trust me, I wasn't a fan of it either, it's crucial to embrace it. As I engaged in research, I committed myself to uncover as many opportunities as I could. This way, you're not just learning, but also opening doors to possibilities.
Thank you so much!
Bryanna
Updated
Maritess G.’s Answer
It's heartening to know that you're considering a career path that involves helping others. Stay true to your passions and interests as you prepare for your journey.
If you're interested in becoming a physical therapist, remember there are numerous related specializations you can explore. Take some time to research these areas; you might find a specialization that not only appeals to you but also offers a more lucrative income.
Remember, using your profession to assist others is a wonderful bonus. If you love what you do, the financial rewards will naturally follow.
If you're interested in becoming a physical therapist, remember there are numerous related specializations you can explore. Take some time to research these areas; you might find a specialization that not only appeals to you but also offers a more lucrative income.
Remember, using your profession to assist others is a wonderful bonus. If you love what you do, the financial rewards will naturally follow.
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Bryanna
Updated
Mary’s Answer
Hi Bryanna, I would first recommend reflecting on what aspects of physical therapy attracted you. Consider other fields where you can help people, such as occupational therapy, nursing, physician assistant, or healthcare administration.
Seek internships, volunteer opportunities, or job shadowing to gain insights and find your best fit. To get a feel for the healthcare environment, you could start with an administrative job in a hospital, which can provide valuable exposure and help you decide if it's the right path for you. Focus on relevant coursework and certifications to build a strong foundation (you can go on coursera.org or find many other free certifications platforms).
I hope this helps!
Seek internships, volunteer opportunities, or job shadowing to gain insights and find your best fit. To get a feel for the healthcare environment, you could start with an administrative job in a hospital, which can provide valuable exposure and help you decide if it's the right path for you. Focus on relevant coursework and certifications to build a strong foundation (you can go on coursera.org or find many other free certifications platforms).
I hope this helps!
This was great, thank you so much!
Bryanna
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Bryanna,
To better prepare yourself for the future and pursue a fulfilling career that allows you help people while ensuring financial stability, consider the following steps:
Explore various career options: Use reliable resources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, college career centers, and academic advisors to research potential careers that align with your interests and values. Prioritize careers with strong job growth, good wages, and opportunities for advancement.
Gain relevant experience: Participate in internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs related to your chosen field to build practical skills and make valuable connections. These experiences can also help clarify your career goals and provide valuable insights into specific industries or roles.
Network: Connect with professionals in your desired field through networking events, LinkedIn, or informational interviews. Building relationships with industry experts can lead to job opportunities and valuable advice on navigating your career path.
Education: Pursue higher education if necessary for your chosen career. A college degree can significantly increase earning potential and open doors to more advanced positions within a field. Consider attending a top university or college to maximize the benefits of your education investment.
Develop essential skills: Focus on developing both hard skills (technical abilities) and soft skills (communication, problem-solving, teamwork) that are highly valued in most industries. These skills will make you a more attractive candidate to employers and help you excel in your future career.
Stay informed about industry trends: Keep up-to-date with the latest developments in your chosen field by reading industry publications, attending conferences, or following thought leaders on social media platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter. Staying informed will help you adapt to changes in the job market and remain competitive throughout your career.
Build a strong personal brand: Create an online presence through professional social media profiles, personal websites, or blogs that showcase your expertise and accomplishments within your field of interest. A strong personal brand can help differentiate you from other candidates when applying for jobs or networking opportunities.*Authoritative References Used: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), College Board
God Bless You,
JC.
To better prepare yourself for the future and pursue a fulfilling career that allows you help people while ensuring financial stability, consider the following steps:
Explore various career options: Use reliable resources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, college career centers, and academic advisors to research potential careers that align with your interests and values. Prioritize careers with strong job growth, good wages, and opportunities for advancement.
Gain relevant experience: Participate in internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs related to your chosen field to build practical skills and make valuable connections. These experiences can also help clarify your career goals and provide valuable insights into specific industries or roles.
Network: Connect with professionals in your desired field through networking events, LinkedIn, or informational interviews. Building relationships with industry experts can lead to job opportunities and valuable advice on navigating your career path.
Education: Pursue higher education if necessary for your chosen career. A college degree can significantly increase earning potential and open doors to more advanced positions within a field. Consider attending a top university or college to maximize the benefits of your education investment.
Develop essential skills: Focus on developing both hard skills (technical abilities) and soft skills (communication, problem-solving, teamwork) that are highly valued in most industries. These skills will make you a more attractive candidate to employers and help you excel in your future career.
Stay informed about industry trends: Keep up-to-date with the latest developments in your chosen field by reading industry publications, attending conferences, or following thought leaders on social media platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter. Staying informed will help you adapt to changes in the job market and remain competitive throughout your career.
Build a strong personal brand: Create an online presence through professional social media profiles, personal websites, or blogs that showcase your expertise and accomplishments within your field of interest. A strong personal brand can help differentiate you from other candidates when applying for jobs or networking opportunities.*Authoritative References Used: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), College Board
God Bless You,
JC.
Thank you for the advice, James Constantine. This was very helpful.
Bryanna
Thomas O'Shea
Music Producer, Composer, Live Sound Engineer, Musician
119
Answers
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
This is something I learned the hard way- do what you love and the money will follow. Even if a career seems like you won't make enough money, if you know you will enjoy it and will be passionate about what you do- go for it. This is the reason why we still have good teachers, professors, therapists, artists, musicians, performers, and so many more important jobs. If you want to be a physical therapist- be a physical therapist. You will enjoy life more, will be happier, and will be more excited every day to do what you do than if you settle with something just because you'll make a big buck. One of my professors said something that has resonated with me for years- money is a construct. We put the value into money, without that, it would be a useless piece of paper. I'm not saying money isn't needed- of course it is. BUT that doesn't mean you have to settle with a dead end job just so you know you will make enough.
I hope this helps,
Good luck!!
I hope this helps,
Good luck!!
This calms my worries. Thank you so much!
Bryanna
Updated
Darya’s Answer
Hi, Bryanna! It's great that you're thinking carefully about your career path and how to balance your desire to help others with your personal financial goals. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for the future and explore potential career options:
1. Self-Assessment
Identify Your Interests and Skills, take time to reflect on what you enjoy doing and what you're good at. Career assessments or personality tests (like the MBTI or Holland Code) can provide insights into suitable career choices.
Determine Your Values, consider what is most important to you in a career (e.g., salary, job security, work-life balance, opportunity to help others).
2. Explore Career Options
If you want to stay in the healthcare field but are concerned about income, consider careers with higher earning potential, such as:
1.Nurse Practitioner (NP)
2.Physician Assistant (PA)
3.Occupational Therapist
4.Speech-Language Pathologist
Look into roles like health education, public health, or healthcare administration, which allow you to impact people’s health while potentially offering better salary prospects.
3. Gain Experience
Seek internships or volunteer positions in various healthcare settings. This exposure can help you gain practical experience and better understand what roles you might enjoy.
Connect with professionals in fields you are interested in. Informational interviews can provide valuable insights into different career paths and their respective challenges and rewards.
4. Further Education and Training
Different careers require different levels of education. Research whether you need additional certifications, a master’s degree, or other credentials.
Weigh the cost of further education against potential earnings in your chosen field. Look for programs that offer financial aid or work-study options.
6. Plan Financially
Educate yourself about personal finance, budgeting, and saving. Understanding how to manage your finances will help you make informed decisions about your career.
Look for scholarships and grants that can help reduce the financial burden of higher education.
7. Stay Open-Minded
Be open to exploring emerging fields and interdisciplinary roles that combine healthcare with technology, business, or social services.
As you gain experiences and develop new interests, revisit your career goals periodically to ensure they align with your evolving aspirations.
8. Seek Support
Utilize your school’s career services for guidance, resources, and job placement help.
Find a mentor in your desired field who can provide advice and support as you navigate your career path.
By taking these steps, you'll be better prepared to make informed choices about your career and find a path that fulfills both your passion for helping others and your financial goals. Good luck! With love, Darya
1. Self-Assessment
Identify Your Interests and Skills, take time to reflect on what you enjoy doing and what you're good at. Career assessments or personality tests (like the MBTI or Holland Code) can provide insights into suitable career choices.
Determine Your Values, consider what is most important to you in a career (e.g., salary, job security, work-life balance, opportunity to help others).
2. Explore Career Options
If you want to stay in the healthcare field but are concerned about income, consider careers with higher earning potential, such as:
1.Nurse Practitioner (NP)
2.Physician Assistant (PA)
3.Occupational Therapist
4.Speech-Language Pathologist
Look into roles like health education, public health, or healthcare administration, which allow you to impact people’s health while potentially offering better salary prospects.
3. Gain Experience
Seek internships or volunteer positions in various healthcare settings. This exposure can help you gain practical experience and better understand what roles you might enjoy.
Connect with professionals in fields you are interested in. Informational interviews can provide valuable insights into different career paths and their respective challenges and rewards.
4. Further Education and Training
Different careers require different levels of education. Research whether you need additional certifications, a master’s degree, or other credentials.
Weigh the cost of further education against potential earnings in your chosen field. Look for programs that offer financial aid or work-study options.
6. Plan Financially
Educate yourself about personal finance, budgeting, and saving. Understanding how to manage your finances will help you make informed decisions about your career.
Look for scholarships and grants that can help reduce the financial burden of higher education.
7. Stay Open-Minded
Be open to exploring emerging fields and interdisciplinary roles that combine healthcare with technology, business, or social services.
As you gain experiences and develop new interests, revisit your career goals periodically to ensure they align with your evolving aspirations.
8. Seek Support
Utilize your school’s career services for guidance, resources, and job placement help.
Find a mentor in your desired field who can provide advice and support as you navigate your career path.
By taking these steps, you'll be better prepared to make informed choices about your career and find a path that fulfills both your passion for helping others and your financial goals. Good luck! With love, Darya