8 answers
1
Question
8 answers
Updated
Emma’s Answer
There is no step-by-step guideline on how to choose a career. The best thing to do is think about hobbies you really enjoy that you could make a career out of.
If you don’t have many hobbies (or at least any you could make a job of), think of something you wish you could do and start working towards that.
If you are able to go to college for an associates degree, that would give you a small push in the right direction. A degree isn’t necessary of course, but it can help in some cases. I personally recommend a community college over a university, they’re smaller and typically a lot less expensive while giving you many opportunities and degree choices. Though some people prefer universities and that’s completely up to you! Online schools are also an option. You can also change your degree at any time in case you don’t like where you’re going, and that’s totally fine!
Whether you choose to get a degree or not, an internship is also a great thing to try. Some are paid, some are not, but it’s very helpful to gain some experience in the field to help find a more advanced job in the future. You could even start your own business from the ground up if you wanted to!
I think the most common (and perhaps the easiest) way to find a career is to just start from the ground up and grow with opportunities within a job. A simple cashiering job could turn into you becoming a manager, then potentially into the administrative field and so on until you get to a place you’re happy with. This could take a very long time, but don’t get discouraged!
There are a lot of different ways to find a career, but the main thing is to think about what you enjoy and how you can turn that into a long-term job. Finding a balance between being happy and being paid well is not an easy task, but I believe there is a job out there for everyone!
If you don’t have many hobbies (or at least any you could make a job of), think of something you wish you could do and start working towards that.
If you are able to go to college for an associates degree, that would give you a small push in the right direction. A degree isn’t necessary of course, but it can help in some cases. I personally recommend a community college over a university, they’re smaller and typically a lot less expensive while giving you many opportunities and degree choices. Though some people prefer universities and that’s completely up to you! Online schools are also an option. You can also change your degree at any time in case you don’t like where you’re going, and that’s totally fine!
Whether you choose to get a degree or not, an internship is also a great thing to try. Some are paid, some are not, but it’s very helpful to gain some experience in the field to help find a more advanced job in the future. You could even start your own business from the ground up if you wanted to!
I think the most common (and perhaps the easiest) way to find a career is to just start from the ground up and grow with opportunities within a job. A simple cashiering job could turn into you becoming a manager, then potentially into the administrative field and so on until you get to a place you’re happy with. This could take a very long time, but don’t get discouraged!
There are a lot of different ways to find a career, but the main thing is to think about what you enjoy and how you can turn that into a long-term job. Finding a balance between being happy and being paid well is not an easy task, but I believe there is a job out there for everyone!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Paul!
Embarking on a Medical Career: Your Essential Action Plan
Deciding on a career, especially in the vast field of medicine, is a monumental decision that demands thoughtful reflection and strategic planning. Here's your essential action plan to help you steer through this journey effectively.
1. Self-Reflection
Before plunging into the particulars of a medical career, it's crucial to take a step back for self-reflection. This involves analyzing your interests, strengths, weaknesses, values, and motivations. Reflect on these questions:
Interests: Are you intrigued by science and math? Do you have a burning desire to help others?
Strengths: Are you an adept problem-solver? Are your communication skills top-notch?
Values: What do you prioritize in a career? Is it job security, earning potential, or the chance to make a difference?
Personality tests like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or Holland Code can shed light on your compatibility with various medical careers.
2. Explore Medical Careers
The medical field is vast, offering a plethora of careers beyond just being a doctor. Get acquainted with different roles such as:
Doctor (MD/DO): Requires intensive education and training.
Nurse Practitioner (NP): Provides more independence than traditional nursing roles.
Physician Assistant (PA): Operates under doctors but carries significant responsibilities.
Medical Technologist: Concentrates on lab work and diagnostics.
Investigating these options will help you pinpoint what resonates best with your interests and skills.
3. Map Your Educational Journey
Once you've pinpointed potential medical careers that pique your interest, chart out the educational prerequisites for each path:
Pre-Med Route: If your goal is to be a doctor, you'll typically need to complete an undergraduate degree with pre-med courses (biology, chemistry, physics).
Graduate Programs: Post-undergraduate, you'll need to apply to medical school (MD or DO programs), which usually necessitates passing the MCAT exam.
For other roles like NP or PA, delve into their specific educational prerequisites as they may vary significantly from those of doctors.
4. Acquire Experience
Real-world experience is priceless when deciding on a career in medicine. Consider these opportunities:
Volunteering: Participate in volunteer roles at hospitals or clinics to get a feel for patient care.
Internships/Shadowing: Observe healthcare professionals to grasp their daily duties and challenges.
This practical experience will not only boost your resume but also provide insight into whether this career path aligns with your expectations.
5. Network and Seek Mentorship
Cultivating relationships within the medical community can be incredibly advantageous:
Networking Events: Participate in healthcare-related seminars or workshops where you can connect with professionals in the field.
Mentorship: Find mentors who can offer advice based on their experiences in medicine.
Mentors can provide support during your educational journey and help overcome hurdles along the way.
6. Get Ready for Medical School Applications
If your aim is to pursue an MD or DO:
Ensure your academic achievements meet admission standards.
Gear up for the MCAT by enrolling in preparatory courses if required.
Also, compile letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can attest to your capabilities and character.
7. Keep Up with Medical Trends
The healthcare landscape is in a state of constant flux due to technological innovations and policy shifts. Keeping abreast of these trends will enable you to make informed decisions about your future career trajectory.
8. Regularly Reassess Your Choices
As you advance in your education and accumulate more experience, periodically revisit your goals and interests. It's perfectly normal for ambitions to shift over time; remaining adaptable allows you to adjust as necessary.
Conclusion
Embarking on a medical career is a thrilling yet demanding journey that calls for meticulous preparation and introspection. By adhering to these steps—self-reflection, exploring careers, mapping your educational journey, acquiring experience, networking, preparing applications, keeping up with industry trends—you'll be well-prepared to make informed decisions about your future in this fulfilling field.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) - Offers exhaustive resources on medical education routes including pre-med prerequisites.
National Health Service (NHS) - Provides in-depth information on various healthcare professions within medicine.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Presents data on job prospects and salary expectations across different medical careers.
God Bless You!
JC.
Embarking on a Medical Career: Your Essential Action Plan
Deciding on a career, especially in the vast field of medicine, is a monumental decision that demands thoughtful reflection and strategic planning. Here's your essential action plan to help you steer through this journey effectively.
1. Self-Reflection
Before plunging into the particulars of a medical career, it's crucial to take a step back for self-reflection. This involves analyzing your interests, strengths, weaknesses, values, and motivations. Reflect on these questions:
Interests: Are you intrigued by science and math? Do you have a burning desire to help others?
Strengths: Are you an adept problem-solver? Are your communication skills top-notch?
Values: What do you prioritize in a career? Is it job security, earning potential, or the chance to make a difference?
Personality tests like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or Holland Code can shed light on your compatibility with various medical careers.
2. Explore Medical Careers
The medical field is vast, offering a plethora of careers beyond just being a doctor. Get acquainted with different roles such as:
Doctor (MD/DO): Requires intensive education and training.
Nurse Practitioner (NP): Provides more independence than traditional nursing roles.
Physician Assistant (PA): Operates under doctors but carries significant responsibilities.
Medical Technologist: Concentrates on lab work and diagnostics.
Investigating these options will help you pinpoint what resonates best with your interests and skills.
3. Map Your Educational Journey
Once you've pinpointed potential medical careers that pique your interest, chart out the educational prerequisites for each path:
Pre-Med Route: If your goal is to be a doctor, you'll typically need to complete an undergraduate degree with pre-med courses (biology, chemistry, physics).
Graduate Programs: Post-undergraduate, you'll need to apply to medical school (MD or DO programs), which usually necessitates passing the MCAT exam.
For other roles like NP or PA, delve into their specific educational prerequisites as they may vary significantly from those of doctors.
4. Acquire Experience
Real-world experience is priceless when deciding on a career in medicine. Consider these opportunities:
Volunteering: Participate in volunteer roles at hospitals or clinics to get a feel for patient care.
Internships/Shadowing: Observe healthcare professionals to grasp their daily duties and challenges.
This practical experience will not only boost your resume but also provide insight into whether this career path aligns with your expectations.
5. Network and Seek Mentorship
Cultivating relationships within the medical community can be incredibly advantageous:
Networking Events: Participate in healthcare-related seminars or workshops where you can connect with professionals in the field.
Mentorship: Find mentors who can offer advice based on their experiences in medicine.
Mentors can provide support during your educational journey and help overcome hurdles along the way.
6. Get Ready for Medical School Applications
If your aim is to pursue an MD or DO:
Ensure your academic achievements meet admission standards.
Gear up for the MCAT by enrolling in preparatory courses if required.
Also, compile letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can attest to your capabilities and character.
7. Keep Up with Medical Trends
The healthcare landscape is in a state of constant flux due to technological innovations and policy shifts. Keeping abreast of these trends will enable you to make informed decisions about your future career trajectory.
8. Regularly Reassess Your Choices
As you advance in your education and accumulate more experience, periodically revisit your goals and interests. It's perfectly normal for ambitions to shift over time; remaining adaptable allows you to adjust as necessary.
Conclusion
Embarking on a medical career is a thrilling yet demanding journey that calls for meticulous preparation and introspection. By adhering to these steps—self-reflection, exploring careers, mapping your educational journey, acquiring experience, networking, preparing applications, keeping up with industry trends—you'll be well-prepared to make informed decisions about your future in this fulfilling field.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) - Offers exhaustive resources on medical education routes including pre-med prerequisites.
National Health Service (NHS) - Provides in-depth information on various healthcare professions within medicine.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Presents data on job prospects and salary expectations across different medical careers.
God Bless You!
JC.
Updated
William’s Answer
Read the book 'Careers Handbook: The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Future by Dorling Kindersley'
Access the World Economic Forum's future of jobs report for 2023 to understand jobs current and near future trends through the link below:
https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2023/
Read job descriptions to know where you fit in, or desire in any of the websites below:
https://www.betterteam.com/job-description
https://www.indeed.com/hire/how-to-write-a-job-description
https://www.careerplanner.com/JobDescSearchTool.cfm
Get a personal mentorship or a career coach for to assist you in planning, monitoring and guiding your career pursuit.
Learn from experiences of those who are successful in your prospective career. Know that your own circumstance is unique to you.
Also, do a personal SWOT analysis.
What are your STRENGTHS. Develop them.
What are your WEAKNESSES. Improve on them to match strengths required for your prospective career.
What are the OPPORTUNITIES of your prospective careers. Pursue them. Bearing in mind the level of competitions and preparedness you need.
What are the TREATS of your chosen career. Lookout for mitigation measures.
Test on quantitative aptitude, verbal aptitude and other forms might determine your level of required skills for the career.
Career matching tests are assessed in the following websites:
careerfitter.com/free_test
https://www.thecareertest.org/
https://www.123test.com/career-test/
https://www.truity.com/view/tests/personality-career
https://www.yourfreecareertest.com/career-tests/free-career-test-for-students/
DISCLAIMER!
Passing a career test or career match does not guarantee success in any career pursuit.
Personal efforts through - hard work, smart work, professional behaviour, availability of resources to finance your career, prevailing market conditions, force majeure, health status of individuals, good ethics and discipline all contributes to your success.
Individual's are fully responsible for their success or failure in career pursuit.
Access the World Economic Forum's future of jobs report for 2023 to understand jobs current and near future trends through the link below:
https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2023/
Read job descriptions to know where you fit in, or desire in any of the websites below:
https://www.betterteam.com/job-description
https://www.indeed.com/hire/how-to-write-a-job-description
https://www.careerplanner.com/JobDescSearchTool.cfm
Get a personal mentorship or a career coach for to assist you in planning, monitoring and guiding your career pursuit.
Learn from experiences of those who are successful in your prospective career. Know that your own circumstance is unique to you.
Also, do a personal SWOT analysis.
What are your STRENGTHS. Develop them.
What are your WEAKNESSES. Improve on them to match strengths required for your prospective career.
What are the OPPORTUNITIES of your prospective careers. Pursue them. Bearing in mind the level of competitions and preparedness you need.
What are the TREATS of your chosen career. Lookout for mitigation measures.
Test on quantitative aptitude, verbal aptitude and other forms might determine your level of required skills for the career.
Career matching tests are assessed in the following websites:
careerfitter.com/free_test
https://www.thecareertest.org/
https://www.123test.com/career-test/
https://www.truity.com/view/tests/personality-career
https://www.yourfreecareertest.com/career-tests/free-career-test-for-students/
DISCLAIMER!
Passing a career test or career match does not guarantee success in any career pursuit.
Personal efforts through - hard work, smart work, professional behaviour, availability of resources to finance your career, prevailing market conditions, force majeure, health status of individuals, good ethics and discipline all contributes to your success.
Individual's are fully responsible for their success or failure in career pursuit.
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
There are more career paths today than ever before. The best way to find something is by doing! You can volunteer in the local community, which will help improve your résumé and your skill set. You can also join clubs at school.
I would recommend that you ask people what they think you would be good at. The answer might just be a question away.
I would recommend that you ask people what they think you would be good at. The answer might just be a question away.
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
Consider these factors:
-Who do you know? What kind of careers do your friends and family do? Are any of these careers something you would be interested in?
-Where do you live or want to live? That will determine what the job market is and what is available to you.
-What do you like to do? Are you an indoor person or someone who prefers to work outside. Do you like being around people or work better alone? These factors will help you determine what would be a good career field for you.
Good luck
-Who do you know? What kind of careers do your friends and family do? Are any of these careers something you would be interested in?
-Where do you live or want to live? That will determine what the job market is and what is available to you.
-What do you like to do? Are you an indoor person or someone who prefers to work outside. Do you like being around people or work better alone? These factors will help you determine what would be a good career field for you.
Good luck
Updated
Sylvia’s Answer
Reflect upon yourself. What activities bring you joy? As a child, what were your passions and what did you envision for your future? Are you inclined towards hands-on tasks or do you prefer a more sedentary, office-based role?
Consider various professions and visualize yourself in each one. Can you imagine dedicating the next four decades of your life to this job? Do you crave a job with flexibility or do you thrive in a structured routine?
Evaluate your personality. Are you someone who derives satisfaction from helping others or is your primary motivation financial gain? Do you enjoy a daily challenge or would you prefer a job with less pressure?
Consider your approach to school assignments. Would you handle your job responsibilities in the same way? If left alone at home without any electronic devices, how would you occupy your time?
Understand your likes and dislikes. What brings you happiness and what irritates you? Are you comfortable with jobs that might make others squeamish? Do you have an affinity for numbers?
Excluding genres like horror, action, and romance, what type of television shows do you enjoy? Are you interested in science? Do you consider yourself a creative person?
Think about your work preferences. Would you rather have a job with fixed hours or a salaried position? Do you see yourself as a leader or a follower? Do you prefer clear instructions or do you enjoy brainstorming innovative ideas?
Consider your social preferences. Do you work better independently or as part of a team?
Take the time to understand yourself and identify what truly makes you happy. Then, seek a career that aligns with these insights.
Consider various professions and visualize yourself in each one. Can you imagine dedicating the next four decades of your life to this job? Do you crave a job with flexibility or do you thrive in a structured routine?
Evaluate your personality. Are you someone who derives satisfaction from helping others or is your primary motivation financial gain? Do you enjoy a daily challenge or would you prefer a job with less pressure?
Consider your approach to school assignments. Would you handle your job responsibilities in the same way? If left alone at home without any electronic devices, how would you occupy your time?
Understand your likes and dislikes. What brings you happiness and what irritates you? Are you comfortable with jobs that might make others squeamish? Do you have an affinity for numbers?
Excluding genres like horror, action, and romance, what type of television shows do you enjoy? Are you interested in science? Do you consider yourself a creative person?
Think about your work preferences. Would you rather have a job with fixed hours or a salaried position? Do you see yourself as a leader or a follower? Do you prefer clear instructions or do you enjoy brainstorming innovative ideas?
Consider your social preferences. Do you work better independently or as part of a team?
Take the time to understand yourself and identify what truly makes you happy. Then, seek a career that aligns with these insights.
Updated
Lirio’s Answer
Choosing a career is a significant decision that involves self-reflection, research, and planning. Here's a step-by-step approach to help you navigate this process:
### 1. **Self-Assessment**
- **Identify Interests:** Reflect on what you enjoy doing in your free time, hobbies, and subjects you excel in.
- **Assess Skills and Strengths:** Consider your natural talents, skills you've developed, and areas where you perform well.
- **Understand Your Values:** Determine what matters most to you in a career—whether it's job security, creativity, work-life balance, or helping others.
### 2. **Explore Career Options**
- **Research Various Fields:** Look into different industries and roles that align with your interests, skills, and values.
- **Talk to Professionals:** Conduct informational interviews with people in careers you're considering to get a real-world perspective.
- **Consider Job Shadowing or Internships:** Gain hands-on experience to better understand what a day in the life of different careers looks like.
### 3. **Consider the Future**
- **Evaluate Job Market Trends:** Research growing industries and careers that are expected to be in demand in the future.
- **Think About Long-Term Goals:** Consider where you see yourself in 5, 10, or 20 years and how different careers might fit into that vision.
### 4. **Match Your Options**
- **Align Careers with Your Self-Assessment:** Choose careers that match your interests, skills, and values, while also fitting your long-term goals.
- **Evaluate Feasibility:** Consider the education, training, and financial investment required for each career and whether it's achievable for you.
### 5. **Make a Decision**
- **Narrow Down Choices:** Focus on a few top career options that meet your criteria.
- **Create a Plan:** Outline the steps needed to enter the career, such as education, certifications, or gaining relevant experience.
- **Be Flexible:** Understand that career paths can evolve. Be open to changing direction as you learn more about yourself and the job market.
### 6. **Take Action**
- **Pursue Education or Training:** Enroll in relevant courses, degrees, or certification programs.
- **Gain Experience:** Look for internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities that will build your resume.
- **Network:** Build relationships in your chosen field by attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with mentors.
### 7. **Review and Reflect**
- **Regularly Reassess:** Periodically evaluate your career satisfaction and growth. Adjust your path if necessary.
- **Keep Learning:** Stay updated on industry trends, and continue developing your skills.
### 1. **Self-Assessment**
- **Identify Interests:** Reflect on what you enjoy doing in your free time, hobbies, and subjects you excel in.
- **Assess Skills and Strengths:** Consider your natural talents, skills you've developed, and areas where you perform well.
- **Understand Your Values:** Determine what matters most to you in a career—whether it's job security, creativity, work-life balance, or helping others.
### 2. **Explore Career Options**
- **Research Various Fields:** Look into different industries and roles that align with your interests, skills, and values.
- **Talk to Professionals:** Conduct informational interviews with people in careers you're considering to get a real-world perspective.
- **Consider Job Shadowing or Internships:** Gain hands-on experience to better understand what a day in the life of different careers looks like.
### 3. **Consider the Future**
- **Evaluate Job Market Trends:** Research growing industries and careers that are expected to be in demand in the future.
- **Think About Long-Term Goals:** Consider where you see yourself in 5, 10, or 20 years and how different careers might fit into that vision.
### 4. **Match Your Options**
- **Align Careers with Your Self-Assessment:** Choose careers that match your interests, skills, and values, while also fitting your long-term goals.
- **Evaluate Feasibility:** Consider the education, training, and financial investment required for each career and whether it's achievable for you.
### 5. **Make a Decision**
- **Narrow Down Choices:** Focus on a few top career options that meet your criteria.
- **Create a Plan:** Outline the steps needed to enter the career, such as education, certifications, or gaining relevant experience.
- **Be Flexible:** Understand that career paths can evolve. Be open to changing direction as you learn more about yourself and the job market.
### 6. **Take Action**
- **Pursue Education or Training:** Enroll in relevant courses, degrees, or certification programs.
- **Gain Experience:** Look for internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities that will build your resume.
- **Network:** Build relationships in your chosen field by attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with mentors.
### 7. **Review and Reflect**
- **Regularly Reassess:** Periodically evaluate your career satisfaction and growth. Adjust your path if necessary.
- **Keep Learning:** Stay updated on industry trends, and continue developing your skills.
Updated
kev’s Answer
Engage in conversations with a variety of individuals to gain insights about their professional journeys, including their likes, dislikes, advantages, and challenges. Additionally, seek opportunities to shadow or intern with professionals, even without pay, to gain firsthand experience in their field.
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