3 answers
Issac
Student
Yuma, Arizona
1
Question
Updated
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How do I find a career for myself ?
Where do I start looking for a career and what education and skills do I need for any career I chose
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3 answers
Matthew Trull
Technical Writer
20
Answers
Thonotosassa, Florida
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
Dear Issac,
Two decades ago, I was in the same boat as you are now. I stumbled upon a resource that not only guided me but also paved the way to my dream career. The steps I'm about to share with you are akin to the ones that aided me:
1. Self-Assessment
* Uncover Your Interests: Delve into what truly captivates you. Is it artistic endeavors, scientific explorations, or perhaps, interacting with people?
* Recognize Your Talents: Reflect on your strong suits. Are you adept at solving problems, writing, or handling technology?
* Understand Your Values: Think about what you seek in a job. Do you aspire to make a difference, work collaboratively, or have a flexible work-life balance?
2. Career Exploration
* Investigate Career Paths: Probe into diverse professions and their prerequisites. Resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook or career exploration tools can be beneficial.
* Grasp Job Responsibilities: Understand the day-to-day tasks associated with various careers. This can give you a real picture of what a job entails.
* Discover Educational Needs: Determine the educational and training requirements for different careers. Some may require college degrees, while others might need vocational training or certifications.
3. Accumulate Experience
* Internships and Job Shadowing: Endeavor to acquire firsthand experience via internships, job shadowing, or part-time jobs in your areas of interest.
* Volunteer Work: Volunteering can offer invaluable experience and help you uncover the kind of work you find fulfilling.
* Extracurricular Activities: Participate in clubs or organizations that align with your interests, such as a coding club for tech enthusiasts or a debate team if you're passionate about public speaking.
4. Seek Advice
* Connect with Professionals: Engage with individuals who are already working in the fields you're curious about to gain insights from their experiences and recommendations.
* Engage a Career Counselor: High school career counselors can provide assessments and guidance that align with your unique interests and talents.
* Consult Family and Friends: Share your thoughts with your loved ones who might offer valuable perspectives or suggestions based on their personal experiences.
5. Establish Goals
* Short-Term Goals: Identify immediate steps you can take, like enrolling in relevant courses or attending workshops.
* Long-Term Goals: Strategize for the future, including potential college choices, degree programs, or career milestones you aspire to reach.
6. Review and Adapt
* Reflect on Your Journey: Continually evaluate how your interests and aspirations change as you gather more experience and knowledge.
* Stay Adaptable: Remain open to tweaking your career path as you discover more about yourself and the evolving job market.
I sincerely hope these steps prove as beneficial for you as they were for me.
Best Wishes,
Matthew
Two decades ago, I was in the same boat as you are now. I stumbled upon a resource that not only guided me but also paved the way to my dream career. The steps I'm about to share with you are akin to the ones that aided me:
1. Self-Assessment
* Uncover Your Interests: Delve into what truly captivates you. Is it artistic endeavors, scientific explorations, or perhaps, interacting with people?
* Recognize Your Talents: Reflect on your strong suits. Are you adept at solving problems, writing, or handling technology?
* Understand Your Values: Think about what you seek in a job. Do you aspire to make a difference, work collaboratively, or have a flexible work-life balance?
2. Career Exploration
* Investigate Career Paths: Probe into diverse professions and their prerequisites. Resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook or career exploration tools can be beneficial.
* Grasp Job Responsibilities: Understand the day-to-day tasks associated with various careers. This can give you a real picture of what a job entails.
* Discover Educational Needs: Determine the educational and training requirements for different careers. Some may require college degrees, while others might need vocational training or certifications.
3. Accumulate Experience
* Internships and Job Shadowing: Endeavor to acquire firsthand experience via internships, job shadowing, or part-time jobs in your areas of interest.
* Volunteer Work: Volunteering can offer invaluable experience and help you uncover the kind of work you find fulfilling.
* Extracurricular Activities: Participate in clubs or organizations that align with your interests, such as a coding club for tech enthusiasts or a debate team if you're passionate about public speaking.
4. Seek Advice
* Connect with Professionals: Engage with individuals who are already working in the fields you're curious about to gain insights from their experiences and recommendations.
* Engage a Career Counselor: High school career counselors can provide assessments and guidance that align with your unique interests and talents.
* Consult Family and Friends: Share your thoughts with your loved ones who might offer valuable perspectives or suggestions based on their personal experiences.
5. Establish Goals
* Short-Term Goals: Identify immediate steps you can take, like enrolling in relevant courses or attending workshops.
* Long-Term Goals: Strategize for the future, including potential college choices, degree programs, or career milestones you aspire to reach.
6. Review and Adapt
* Reflect on Your Journey: Continually evaluate how your interests and aspirations change as you gather more experience and knowledge.
* Stay Adaptable: Remain open to tweaking your career path as you discover more about yourself and the evolving job market.
I sincerely hope these steps prove as beneficial for you as they were for me.
Best Wishes,
Matthew
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
604
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Great question. There are a few things I recommend to those looking to find a career. The first is to join after school clubs and participate (becoming a club officer helps you learn leadership skills). Chose electives that may challenge you and let you learn something new. Attend career fairs/days and ask LOTS of questions.
For education, I had NO idea what I wanted to do when I graduated from college. I went to a community college and got my AA IN general studies. I didn’t declare as a psychology major until I was accepted to San Francisco state.
I know it feels like you need to have all of the answers right now, but you have time.
For education, I had NO idea what I wanted to do when I graduated from college. I went to a community college and got my AA IN general studies. I didn’t declare as a psychology major until I was accepted to San Francisco state.
I know it feels like you need to have all of the answers right now, but you have time.
Éverton Backes
Saxophone teacher
71
Answers
Joinville, State of Santa Catarina, Brazil
Updated
Éverton’s Answer
Hello Issac! Often, our first glimpse into the world of careers comes from observing our parents, even if we're not particularly interested in their professions. But remember, this is just the beginning. Over time, you'll discover your own path. The key is to take that first step, to initiate something. My advice to you is to dive in and start something. Be observant of the world around you, and unexpectedly, you'll stumble upon what truly interests you. Stay on the right track!