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How did you know that the major you picked is something you will enjoy for the rest of your life?

I'm going to be a senior in the fall and I think I want to go to school for occupational therapy assistant, then go on to get my masters.

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Laurie’s Answer

Abby, this is a question I think most people have, so you are not alone!
When you are in middle school or high school, you have certain interests and often those lead you into an education and career path. We all hope that the career we choose when we are starting out is something we will love for many years, but the fact is that as we continue to grow and gain life experiences, we sometimes change interests and seek new career opportunities.
It is not unusual for people to start out in one career field for 10 years or so and then change to something else. That is exactly what happened to me. After 30 years in one career, I changed to something new. I could not be happier with my decision!
The good news is that life is an adventure, and you will learn as you go. If you decide to make a change, that is completely ok!
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Oliver’s Answer

Think of your major as something you definitely want to do for the next 3-5 years after graduation. I say that because you need time to apply everything you've learned in college (and hopefully some internships) to really understand how you like the ins and outs of your passion. I also say this because we are at a time where many people change their professional interests over the course of their lives. However, I also want to point out that you can change professional interests and still stay within the same field. For example, as an occupational therapy assistant, many people assume that role to involve seeing different patients on a regular . But you may decide that you want to be an educator in that field, or a researcher, or a team lead. Each of those other paths involve a slightly different skill set that you may learn through college and internships, but you may need more pointed networking and development (via courses, certificates, conferences, etc) that will solidify a position in that interest.
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Kayleigh’s Answer

Hi Abby!

You already have some great answers here, so I will just add that this is a topic that SO many people stress about but don't need to. You definitely don't need to know what you want to do with the rest of your life right now. I would recommend you take classes / pursue major(s) in areas that you both enjoy and feel align with your strengths. There is always time to change your mind down the line - most people's career paths evolve anyways!

One good example of this is my friend who studied biology in college and immediately went off to become a medical assistant at a doctor's office. She started getting the urge to pivot to a more business-focused role but was worried she had siloed herself into medical jobs by studying Biology and not Business. She ended up applying for a consulting role in a Healthcare industry, where she was able to use her extensive medical knowledge while also getting to try out a completely different job type. Cases like hers show that careers evolve and you are never "stuck" in one role.

If anything, hopefully this eases any anxiety or stress you are having around choosing a major. You are NOT locked into the major you choose for the rest of your life, so for now, focus on exploring areas you are interested in!
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Misa’s Answer

Hi Abby,

In my opinion, when selecting a major that you hope to enjoy for a lifetime, focus on aligning your interest, strengths, and values with the potential career paths associated with that major. Take the time to explore various fields through research, internships, networking, and speaking with professionals in those areas. Be open to new experiences and dont be afraid to change direction if needed.

Remember that passions can evolve, and its okay to adapt your path accordingly. Ultimately, choose a major that not only excites you academically but also offers opportunities for personal growth and fulfillment in the long run.

I hope you will find the right path for your career!
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Joanna Rose’s Answer

Hi Abby!

Choosing a major is a big decision, and it's okay to question if it's the right one for you. It's a journey of self-discovery, and enjoying what you're studying is a good sign you're on the right path. As you consider occupational therapy, try to gain real-life experience - perhaps shadow a professional or intern in the field. This can give you a real feel for the work, and if it resonates with you, then you're likely making the right choice. Remember, your decision to pursue a master's later is a great step forward, allowing you to delve deeper and open more doors in your chosen field.
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Jamie’s Answer

The answer is you don’t. People change careers all the time. However, find something you truly love doing. Something that you don’t get bored with easily. Something that excites you to learn about. Start with that. If in 10 years you hate it or the industry changes, you can always do something else. Don’t feel like you’re “stuck” with the first choice you make. You got this! You’ll do great in whatever major you choose!
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Priscila’s Answer

Hello Abby! I'm thrilled to share that I work as an occupational therapy assistant, a role that I truly cherish. What's fascinating about this field is the diverse range of settings where our skills can be put to use. Be it mental health, pediatrics, geriatrics, ergonomics, transitional programs, or skilled nursing facilities, the possibilities are endless.

Something crucial to remember about this profession is the need to periodically renew your license, as mandated by the state where you're practicing. The average starting pay for an occupational therapy assistant is a respectable $30 per hour.

One key distinction to note between a certified occupational therapy assistant (COTA) and an occupational therapist (OT) is that, as a COTA, we're not authorized to interpret the results of a patient's evaluation. aOther than that we do all the (OT) does develop patient goals, carry out treatment interventions.

Priscila recommends the following next steps:

1. I would find a local occupational therapy clinic you can volunteer/ observe
2. find a AOTA accredited OTA bridge program, trade school, or college within the state where you will want to go to school
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Patrick’s Answer

Hey Abby -

Great question that I remember grappling with when I was going into college. My approach was to take classes that I knew aligned with my interests and what I wanted to pursue, but also try a class each year that was outside of my interests. I was a history major, so my classes mainly focused on history and government. I tried to take a quantitative class each year, and my junior year I took a coding class that led me to my current career! College can be difficult to navigate, but I encourage you to keep an open mind when choosing your classes, while still staying focused on what you plan to do post-college.

Wishing you all the best!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Abby,

To determine if occupational therapy assistant (OTA) is the right major for your long-term enjoyment, consider the following factors:

Alignment with Personal Interests and Values: Reflect on what motivates and fulfills you. OTA involves helping people improve their physical and mental abilities to perform daily tasks. If you have a genuine interest in health, wellness, and rehabilitation, this major could be a good fit.

Career Prospects: Research the job market for OTAs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of OTAs is projected to grow 32% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations (BLS). This growth indicates a strong demand for OTAs, which can contribute to job satisfaction and long-term career prospects.

Academic Performance: Evaluate your academic performance in related courses or prerequisites. Strong grades and positive feedback from instructors can indicate that you have a natural aptitude for the subject matter and may enjoy pursuing it further.

Practical Experience: Seek out opportunities to gain practical experience in the field through internships, volunteer work, or shadowing professionals. These experiences can help you understand the day-to-day responsibilities of an OTA and whether it aligns with your interests and goals.

Networking: Connect with current OTAs or professionals in the field through professional organizations or alumni networks. They can provide valuable insights into the profession and help answer any questions you may have about the major or career path.

Personal Growth: Consider how pursuing an OTA degree aligns with your personal growth goals. For example, if you value helping others, working collaboratively with healthcare teams, or learning new skills, an OTA degree could be a rewarding choice for both your career and personal development.

Long-Term Goals: Reflect on your long-term career goals beyond an entry-level position as an OTA. For instance, if you aspire to become an occupational therapist (OT) or work in research or academia, obtaining a master’s degree in occupational therapy could be a necessary step towards achieving those goals (AOTA).

Adaptability: Lastly, consider how adaptable this major is to changing circumstances or industries within healthcare rehabilitation services (BLS). As healthcare continues to evolve, having a versatile skill set can increase your employability and overall job satisfaction throughout your career as an OTA or beyond.

Authoritative References Used:

U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapy-assistants-and-aides [Occupational Employment Statistics]
American Occupational Therapy Association: https://www.aotaeduprodsaleswebstorecom/Content_Details/1975 [Education & Careers]
National Center for Education Statistics - College Navigator: https://ncesdataexplorer [College Navigator]

GOD BLESS YOU,
JC.
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LuLu’s Answer

It wasn't until a stalker disrupted my life that I discovered my true calling - cybersecurity. This revelation came at the age of 37, proving that it's never too late to find your passion and pursue it.
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Su-Ting’s Answer

Hello, and congrats on finishing up junior year of high school! To answer your question, I think it takes time, exploration and researching if this might be the best fit for you. I currently working in consulting but was so sure that I would be working in a tech company. Experience will be your best friend, and know that you are not tied to your job! If what you're doing isn't what you're enjoying, take some time to reevaluate, and see if there is another career that seems of interest, and you could pivot there. As of now, I think it's wise to find a major that relates to occupational therapy, and good luck with the journey!
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Jaxson’s Answer

Hello Abby! I am currently a Master of Accounting student in college, so I can relate to your question. One of the biggest tips to deciding whether you will enjoy a career related to your major is to get applicable internship and work experience while in school. I have decided to study accounting and have done three internships during school to determine which specific area of accounting I want to go into, and if I actually enjoy accounting work and could make a career out of it.
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Loretta’s Answer

Hi Abby,
This is a great question! When I was in high school, I just knew that I was going to be a Mortician before I discovered this thing called "scary movies". Now, let's picture a pre-teen girl whose parents didn't allow her to watch scary movies growing up. So, one day my friend and I decide to watch a scary movie this day. WHY. DONT KNOW! Let's just say, her and I had to find a job after school to replace a glass door that I ran into because I couldn't get out her house fast enough (so scared!). I knew then, being a mortician was not for me! On another note, I have changed my career about three times before I really found what I love. So, to answer your question, if you're passionate about whatever career path you choose usually you will know that's what you were meant to do. I finally did! Good Luck!
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Anne’s Answer

Hello,

There are no right or wrong answers.
Some people get their major from college, start their career, and find out that they don't like the job.
There are many people who switch over their career because of it!
I would recommend trying out for several internships throughout college and get the feeling of what you will be doing for a certain career.

Good luck!
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Mary’s Answer

I started by reflecting on my interests and passions. Initially, I went to school for criminal justice and biology, as I was fascinated by those fields. However, I kept an open mind and explored different areas through internships, volunteer work, and job shadowing. These experiences helped me understand what I enjoyed and what I didn’t.

During college, I took a PR class as an elective, which unexpectedly sparked my interest in communications. This led me to pursue a master’s degree in communications, eventually building a fulfilling career in this field. I truly appreciate how college opened my eyes to a career I hadn’t considered before.

Based on my experience, I believe you will enjoy whatever course you decide to pursue. However, I recommend keeping an open mind. Even if you’re someone who tends to stick to their initial decisions, a little flexibility can open doors you never knew existed.

I hope this helps!
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Ankita’s Answer

Deciding if a major is the right fit for you in the long run involves a mix of thinking about what you enjoy, what you're good at, and what makes you feel fulfilled. Let's break it down with an example:

Imagine you're really interested in helping people recover from injuries or disabilities, and you find joy in seeing others improve their lives. You've always been good at listening to others and finding creative solutions to problems. These qualities could make you a great fit for a career in occupational therapy.

Now, you might not be 100% sure if this is the right path for you, so you decide to do some more digging. You talk to current occupational therapy assistants and ask them what their job is like. You learn that they work closely with patients, helping them regain skills for everyday tasks like dressing themselves or cooking meals. This sounds rewarding to you, knowing you could make a real difference in people's lives.

You also look into the educational requirements. You find out that becoming an occupational therapy assistant typically requires an associate degree, which is a bit shorter than a bachelor's degree. This is appealing to you because you're eager to get started on your career path.

But you also think about the future. You wonder if you might want to advance your career someday. That's when you discover that you can pursue a master's degree in occupational therapy if you want to take your career to the next level. This flexibility gives you peace of mind, knowing you have options for growth and advancement in the field.

After considering all these factors—your interests, skills, the day-to-day work, and the potential for advancement—you feel confident that pursuing a major in occupational therapy assistant is the right choice for you. It aligns with what you enjoy, what you're good at, and what you envision for your future career.
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Carolyn’s Answer

Hi there! Just like you, many students struggle with the same question. It can seem overwhelming to make such a significant decision at a young age, knowing it could shape your future. Initially, I pursued a college major that was highly recommended by the adults around me. However, I felt out of sync and lacked confidence. After a semester of feeling misplaced, I decided to take my own advice and pick a major that resonated with me.

I chose Mass Communication, which allowed me to take courses I was genuinely interested in, such as Sociology, Business Communication, Business Law, Marketing, and more. This choice made me feel like I was on the right path. My degree opened doors for me, landing me my first job at a small PR firm, and eventually leading me to a Fortune 500 company where I can apply my knowledge daily.

Remember, college isn't solely about gaining knowledge in a specific area. It's also about developing crucial skills such as effective communication, critical thinking, and decision-making.

Consider your interests and what you're eager to learn more about, and let that guide your decision.

Best of luck!
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Sabrina’s Answer

Hello Abby,

It's perfectly normal to be unsure about what you want to do, and you're not alone! The key is to follow your interests and see where they lead you. Remember, it's a journey that requires time and exploration to truly discover your passion. And it's absolutely fine to change your mind along the way!

One of the best strategies to uncover your career path is to gain experience through internships. I've had several of these opportunities myself, and while some didn't turn out as I expected, they were incredibly helpful in revealing what I didn't enjoy. Wishing you all the best on your journey!
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Diane’s Answer

Hi Abby, such a great question and an age old question at that. Most young adults heading to college/in college have this same question. I think the most important thing you can ask yourself is did you do your homework (ie. investigate the career path you chose, talk with/shadow professional in that career while in high school/college) to get a good understanding of the career you selected? Are you passionate about the career? Do you feel you can make a difference? If you've done all of this odds are you chose a career you will do for the remainder of your life or close to it; especially such a specialized degree like occupational therapy assistant. Keep in mind that many people change careers throughout their life and that is not unusual. Mindset, lifestyle, situations change so you may find yourself in a different career then what you graduated in. Best of luck to you.
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Pam’s Answer

I didn't know and it's okay not to know. Sometimes you just have to get a job in that field to see if it's really a good fit for you. I know someone who recently graduated with a nursing degree and she then realized she didn't like being a nurse so she got a great job working for a chiropractor. She LOVES her job! It's also a great idea to do volunteer work in the field you're interested in to see if you like it or not.
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. You better to find out the career you have interest now. It is common to change interest in the lifetime. You may change the career at that time. Let's focus what you have interest now
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
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 counselor, your 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!
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m’s Answer

The simple answer is you don't know. Many people start off in school with a desire to pursue a career in a specific area and end up working in a different area over time. In school and once you start to work you will start to really understand what you enjoy and what you do not enjoy. You will meet people that will provide you an opportunity that you did not expect. You will follow your instinct as you get real experiences and real opportunities - many of which you cannot anticipate at this stage in your life and career. The key is to grow professionally, enjoy what you are doing and make an impact. Good luck!
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Shirley’s Answer

Unfortunately, college courses may not be the best indicator of the real world experience. College classes waterdown real-life situations to highlight key concepts, but in reality, the circumstances are much more complex and oftentimes, the variables are unknown.

You are not required to declare your major on your first day of college, and even if you already declared one, you can always still change your major. You will take a wide array of classes to test what you enjoy the most before you pick a major. Then, you can look into doing an internship in the field to see what job looks like day-to-day.
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Taylor’s Answer

Hello!

I actually did not finish my degree. I was a journalism student with two years under my belt, and I loved learning it in school.

I was feeling ambitious, and I interviewed for a job at my local news station. I had the job for a year, and I realized I was on the wrong path! I couldn't stand my job, and that exposure showed me a new path for myself. I saved myself a lot of time and money by not continuing on my career path.

Experience, experience, experience is the BEST teacher. Anything you can do to get your hands on experience in the field will show you quickly what you really like.

PS- The days of staying with one job for 40-50 years are becoming a thing of the past! If you don't like something, you can always move on!
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Jeremy’s Answer

Hi Abby, when I chose to be an accounting major many years ago I didn't know it would be something I would enjoy the rest of my life. I chose my major because it had great opportunity, challenged me, and suited my strengths. You will have many opportunities to learn new things in college and throughout your career. Take some time to reflect on those experiences. Be curious and when you find something that interests you dive in deeper. Good luck!
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