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How did you decide which career path to choose?
I have no idea what I'm doing and am in dire need of help. I don't feel strongly about any career choice that is financially viable, so I'm clueless.
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13 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Alyssa!
ME:-
SOMETIMES GOD INTERVENES
FOR A MORE PRODUCTIVE OUTCOME FOR ALL!
When I was a boy of 13 my parents bought me a Christmas present then a birthday present both of them were refractor lens telescopes. I started regularly observing the heavens. I wanted to be an astronomer. I made it to an amateur astronomer anyway. My parents could not afford an eight-inch reflector telescope which was $375 in 1970. I took to grinding my own telescope mirrors. That is the most precise manual skill a human can perform.
In senior high school this course of study towards astrophysics or astronomy necessitated taking really heavy stem subjects like physics. In 1972 the physics teacher taught us computing. Over the next 52 years I have continued studying programming and developing software. I had to repeat grade 11, my parents allowed me to do it in 1973. The idea was to get me into university. In 1974 I was in grade 12 and my 38 year old uncle, my father's brother died of a massive coronary. I could not study chemistry in senior high school because the class was overcrowded. Consequentially I could not study medicine.
I started at a new university, Griffith in Brisbane. Then the weirdest thing happened. My uncle Mike's old supervisor Professor Masters, from 1960 came to lecture in biochemistry at Griffith. I call it "An Act of God." Well yours faithfully changed majors to biochemistry and started reading up on nutrition. After my first degree I went to another university to do fourth year postgraduate biochemistry. I taught first year dentistry and second year medicine.
The topic that really interested me was Californian Professor Linus Pauling's orthomolecular nutrition. This involves the treatment of diseases with select nutrients: God's Pharmacopeia - not man's. I had the good fortune to talk to Lady Dr Phyllis Cilento in 1981. She was recommending me studying orthomolecular nutrition. This involves using 'the right molecules' like amino-acids, vitamins, and minerals to treat illnesses. Phyllis told me to do the postgraduate diploma in Sydney. I did that then worked with natural therapists.
My father died of a coronary at 50 years of age in 1985. I enrolled with a third university and studied to be a dietitian. I had seen enough coronary artery disease in my family. I commenced helping people as a dietitian-nutritionist. I got a job in Dubbo, New South Wales. I covered a large outback swathe, a third of the state. I visited regional rural hospitals and community health centers and consulted patients. Then I moved back to Brisbane and did three years of private practice.
After that I got another job in Western Australia, at Port Hedland. This was a regional dietitian's position covering a fifth of the state, and quite remote. I started a Masters in Public Health by distance education with the University of New South Wales. Then I got my fourth position as a contract dietitian-nutritionist back in Queensland in the outback town of Roma. This was excellent pay at $45 an hour.
I combined the two talents when in 1994 a patient told me that the one-day sample menus were not sufficient to tell her what to eat. This was the nutrition education resource in written form utilized world-wide by nutritionists and dietitians. Then there were the food group selection lists from many dietitians. This resource did not cut the mustard either. Too many mathematical demands on the patient, who was unsure for weeks, whether they were doing this properly.
Well this patient wanted a 14-day food menu! I set about crafting the necessary software to do the job. That involved Equations of Randomized Iterative Complementation {ERIC}. Seven computer languages later I made the Diet Wizard.
Have a look at my profile here's the address https://www.careervillage.org/users/179930/?next=
Go to the About James Constantine section it's a header.
Scroll down to the query entitled "in lay person terms what do you actually do at work?" I FIX SICK PEOPLE.
Here you find all the nutrients described. Also you'll be able to look up the food sources that they come from and what these substances do in the body. They increase human performance in the areas of psychological physical sports academic procedures. So you can get far more work done when you're properly nourished.
AI:-
Understanding Career Path Selection
Choosing a career path can be one of the most challenging decisions in life, especially when you feel uncertain about your interests and financial viability. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you navigate this process.
1. Self-Assessment
The first step in deciding on a career path is self-assessment. This involves reflecting on your skills, interests, values, and personality traits. Tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Strong Interest Inventory can provide insights into what careers might suit you based on your preferences and strengths.
Skills: Identify what you are good at. Are you more analytical, creative, or interpersonal?
Interests: Consider what activities engage you most. Do you enjoy working with people, data, or hands-on tasks?
Values: Determine what is important to you in a job. Is it job security, helping others, creativity, or high income?
2. Research Potential Careers
Once you have a better understanding of yourself, research various careers that align with your skills and interests. Use resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook to explore different professions, their job outlooks, required education levels, and average salaries.
Job Outlook: Look for fields that are growing and have a demand for workers.
Education Requirements: Understand what qualifications are necessary for different careers.
Salary Information: Consider whether the potential earnings meet your financial needs.
3. Explore Educational Opportunities
If certain career paths require specific degrees or certifications that interest you, consider enrolling in relevant courses or programs. Community colleges often offer affordable options for gaining new skills without committing to a four-year degree immediately.
Certifications and Degrees: Research programs that can enhance your employability in fields of interest.
Internships and Apprenticeships: These experiences can provide practical exposure to industries you’re considering.
4. Networking and Informational Interviews
Reach out to professionals in fields you’re interested in through networking events or platforms like LinkedIn. Conduct informational interviews to gain insights into their day-to-day responsibilities and career paths.
Networking Events: Attend local meetups or industry conferences.
Informational Interviews: Prepare questions about their experiences and advice for newcomers.
5. Gain Experience
Consider volunteering or taking part-time jobs related to fields of interest to gain experience and build your resume while exploring what truly resonates with you.
Volunteering Opportunities: Nonprofits often seek help; this can be an excellent way to test out roles without long-term commitment.
Part-Time Work: Look for entry-level positions that allow you to learn about an industry while earning some income.
6. Evaluate Your Options Regularly
Career paths are rarely linear; it’s essential to remain flexible and open-minded as you progress through your education and early work experiences. Regularly evaluate how satisfied you are with your choices and be willing to pivot if necessary.
Self-Evaluation Checkpoints: Set regular intervals (e.g., every six months) to assess your satisfaction with your current path.
By following these steps methodically—self-assessment followed by research, education exploration, networking, gaining experience, and regular evaluation—you can make informed decisions about your career path even when feeling uncertain initially.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - The BLS provides comprehensive information on job outlooks across various industries including salary data and educational requirements which is crucial for making informed career decisions.
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) - A widely used personality assessment tool that helps individuals understand their personality types which can guide them toward suitable career paths based on their traits.
National Career Development Association (NCDA) - Offers resources for career planning including assessments and guidance on how to choose a career path effectively based on personal interests and market trends.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
ME:-
SOMETIMES GOD INTERVENES
FOR A MORE PRODUCTIVE OUTCOME FOR ALL!
When I was a boy of 13 my parents bought me a Christmas present then a birthday present both of them were refractor lens telescopes. I started regularly observing the heavens. I wanted to be an astronomer. I made it to an amateur astronomer anyway. My parents could not afford an eight-inch reflector telescope which was $375 in 1970. I took to grinding my own telescope mirrors. That is the most precise manual skill a human can perform.
In senior high school this course of study towards astrophysics or astronomy necessitated taking really heavy stem subjects like physics. In 1972 the physics teacher taught us computing. Over the next 52 years I have continued studying programming and developing software. I had to repeat grade 11, my parents allowed me to do it in 1973. The idea was to get me into university. In 1974 I was in grade 12 and my 38 year old uncle, my father's brother died of a massive coronary. I could not study chemistry in senior high school because the class was overcrowded. Consequentially I could not study medicine.
I started at a new university, Griffith in Brisbane. Then the weirdest thing happened. My uncle Mike's old supervisor Professor Masters, from 1960 came to lecture in biochemistry at Griffith. I call it "An Act of God." Well yours faithfully changed majors to biochemistry and started reading up on nutrition. After my first degree I went to another university to do fourth year postgraduate biochemistry. I taught first year dentistry and second year medicine.
The topic that really interested me was Californian Professor Linus Pauling's orthomolecular nutrition. This involves the treatment of diseases with select nutrients: God's Pharmacopeia - not man's. I had the good fortune to talk to Lady Dr Phyllis Cilento in 1981. She was recommending me studying orthomolecular nutrition. This involves using 'the right molecules' like amino-acids, vitamins, and minerals to treat illnesses. Phyllis told me to do the postgraduate diploma in Sydney. I did that then worked with natural therapists.
My father died of a coronary at 50 years of age in 1985. I enrolled with a third university and studied to be a dietitian. I had seen enough coronary artery disease in my family. I commenced helping people as a dietitian-nutritionist. I got a job in Dubbo, New South Wales. I covered a large outback swathe, a third of the state. I visited regional rural hospitals and community health centers and consulted patients. Then I moved back to Brisbane and did three years of private practice.
After that I got another job in Western Australia, at Port Hedland. This was a regional dietitian's position covering a fifth of the state, and quite remote. I started a Masters in Public Health by distance education with the University of New South Wales. Then I got my fourth position as a contract dietitian-nutritionist back in Queensland in the outback town of Roma. This was excellent pay at $45 an hour.
I combined the two talents when in 1994 a patient told me that the one-day sample menus were not sufficient to tell her what to eat. This was the nutrition education resource in written form utilized world-wide by nutritionists and dietitians. Then there were the food group selection lists from many dietitians. This resource did not cut the mustard either. Too many mathematical demands on the patient, who was unsure for weeks, whether they were doing this properly.
Well this patient wanted a 14-day food menu! I set about crafting the necessary software to do the job. That involved Equations of Randomized Iterative Complementation {ERIC}. Seven computer languages later I made the Diet Wizard.
Have a look at my profile here's the address https://www.careervillage.org/users/179930/?next=
Go to the About James Constantine section it's a header.
Scroll down to the query entitled "in lay person terms what do you actually do at work?" I FIX SICK PEOPLE.
Here you find all the nutrients described. Also you'll be able to look up the food sources that they come from and what these substances do in the body. They increase human performance in the areas of psychological physical sports academic procedures. So you can get far more work done when you're properly nourished.
AI:-
Understanding Career Path Selection
Choosing a career path can be one of the most challenging decisions in life, especially when you feel uncertain about your interests and financial viability. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you navigate this process.
1. Self-Assessment
The first step in deciding on a career path is self-assessment. This involves reflecting on your skills, interests, values, and personality traits. Tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Strong Interest Inventory can provide insights into what careers might suit you based on your preferences and strengths.
Skills: Identify what you are good at. Are you more analytical, creative, or interpersonal?
Interests: Consider what activities engage you most. Do you enjoy working with people, data, or hands-on tasks?
Values: Determine what is important to you in a job. Is it job security, helping others, creativity, or high income?
2. Research Potential Careers
Once you have a better understanding of yourself, research various careers that align with your skills and interests. Use resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook to explore different professions, their job outlooks, required education levels, and average salaries.
Job Outlook: Look for fields that are growing and have a demand for workers.
Education Requirements: Understand what qualifications are necessary for different careers.
Salary Information: Consider whether the potential earnings meet your financial needs.
3. Explore Educational Opportunities
If certain career paths require specific degrees or certifications that interest you, consider enrolling in relevant courses or programs. Community colleges often offer affordable options for gaining new skills without committing to a four-year degree immediately.
Certifications and Degrees: Research programs that can enhance your employability in fields of interest.
Internships and Apprenticeships: These experiences can provide practical exposure to industries you’re considering.
4. Networking and Informational Interviews
Reach out to professionals in fields you’re interested in through networking events or platforms like LinkedIn. Conduct informational interviews to gain insights into their day-to-day responsibilities and career paths.
Networking Events: Attend local meetups or industry conferences.
Informational Interviews: Prepare questions about their experiences and advice for newcomers.
5. Gain Experience
Consider volunteering or taking part-time jobs related to fields of interest to gain experience and build your resume while exploring what truly resonates with you.
Volunteering Opportunities: Nonprofits often seek help; this can be an excellent way to test out roles without long-term commitment.
Part-Time Work: Look for entry-level positions that allow you to learn about an industry while earning some income.
6. Evaluate Your Options Regularly
Career paths are rarely linear; it’s essential to remain flexible and open-minded as you progress through your education and early work experiences. Regularly evaluate how satisfied you are with your choices and be willing to pivot if necessary.
Self-Evaluation Checkpoints: Set regular intervals (e.g., every six months) to assess your satisfaction with your current path.
By following these steps methodically—self-assessment followed by research, education exploration, networking, gaining experience, and regular evaluation—you can make informed decisions about your career path even when feeling uncertain initially.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - The BLS provides comprehensive information on job outlooks across various industries including salary data and educational requirements which is crucial for making informed career decisions.
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) - A widely used personality assessment tool that helps individuals understand their personality types which can guide them toward suitable career paths based on their traits.
National Career Development Association (NCDA) - Offers resources for career planning including assessments and guidance on how to choose a career path effectively based on personal interests and market trends.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Updated
Karthik Kumar’s Answer
Dear Alyssa,
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about your future during your high school or college years. However, those who begin to contemplate their future early on are often the ones who find success later. Here's my perspective on how you might approach your career:
Initially, focus on securing a job that can cover your basic expenses. I recommend exploring the field of technical programming, such as Python. Strive to become proficient in this area. Once you're financially stable, you can then start to pursue something you're truly passionate about, while still maintaining your first job. This will require additional effort, but it's a worthwhile endeavor. When you feel confident that you can fully commit to your passion, consider whether it's feasible to leave your first job. This should be a calculated decision, not an impulsive one.
Entrepreneurship isn't for everyone. It demands total commitment, dedication, and hard work. It requires the ability to handle both victories and defeats with grace, and the strength to accept that whatever will happen, will happen. If you're not prepared for these challenges, it's better to steer clear of entrepreneurship. Otherwise, you might find yourself unable to even pay your bills.
In the current digital age, there are numerous YouTube and Instagram videos that suggest everyone can take risks and succeed in business. However, I believe this isn't always realistic. These videos often encourage making mistakes, but I beg to differ. Every action should be well thought out, as mistakes can be costly in terms of time, a luxury none of us have. If you miss an opportunity, you'll have to wait for the next one. The people suggesting you take risks are often those who are already self-sufficient and aren't in a position to advise others to do the same.
It's important to become self-sufficient first, then take calculated risks. Being in high school or college doesn't give you the license to make mistakes. While some people do find success after a series of failures, they only make up about 2%-5% of the population. It's crucial to stay grounded and not get carried away by others' success stories. In this era of abundant knowledge and information, making mistakes isn't justifiable. Always think before you act and take calculated risks in your career.
I hope my perspective has been helpful and clear. If you have any questions or need further clarification, don't hesitate to reach out.
Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors.
Warm Regards,
Karthik.
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about your future during your high school or college years. However, those who begin to contemplate their future early on are often the ones who find success later. Here's my perspective on how you might approach your career:
Initially, focus on securing a job that can cover your basic expenses. I recommend exploring the field of technical programming, such as Python. Strive to become proficient in this area. Once you're financially stable, you can then start to pursue something you're truly passionate about, while still maintaining your first job. This will require additional effort, but it's a worthwhile endeavor. When you feel confident that you can fully commit to your passion, consider whether it's feasible to leave your first job. This should be a calculated decision, not an impulsive one.
Entrepreneurship isn't for everyone. It demands total commitment, dedication, and hard work. It requires the ability to handle both victories and defeats with grace, and the strength to accept that whatever will happen, will happen. If you're not prepared for these challenges, it's better to steer clear of entrepreneurship. Otherwise, you might find yourself unable to even pay your bills.
In the current digital age, there are numerous YouTube and Instagram videos that suggest everyone can take risks and succeed in business. However, I believe this isn't always realistic. These videos often encourage making mistakes, but I beg to differ. Every action should be well thought out, as mistakes can be costly in terms of time, a luxury none of us have. If you miss an opportunity, you'll have to wait for the next one. The people suggesting you take risks are often those who are already self-sufficient and aren't in a position to advise others to do the same.
It's important to become self-sufficient first, then take calculated risks. Being in high school or college doesn't give you the license to make mistakes. While some people do find success after a series of failures, they only make up about 2%-5% of the population. It's crucial to stay grounded and not get carried away by others' success stories. In this era of abundant knowledge and information, making mistakes isn't justifiable. Always think before you act and take calculated risks in your career.
I hope my perspective has been helpful and clear. If you have any questions or need further clarification, don't hesitate to reach out.
Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors.
Warm Regards,
Karthik.
Updated
Camilla’s Answer
Hi Alyssa,
Think about the things you are passionate about and can see yourself doing. I have changed career paths because early out I thought I wanted to do something and later on my mind has changed. That’s completely normal as well but I’d say whatever captures your interest from early out might be what you want to do or end up going back to. If I could do it over again I’d take time to travel after high school to explore different things then go to college instead of me jumping straight in to college right after high school.
Think about the things you are passionate about and can see yourself doing. I have changed career paths because early out I thought I wanted to do something and later on my mind has changed. That’s completely normal as well but I’d say whatever captures your interest from early out might be what you want to do or end up going back to. If I could do it over again I’d take time to travel after high school to explore different things then go to college instead of me jumping straight in to college right after high school.
Updated
Allison’s Answer
Hi Alyssa,
First of all, I'd like to reiterate a common theme that it is completely ok not to know exactly what you want to do. You can also change paths throughout the course of your career to find what you ultimately enjoy the most. I'll give a few brief tips for getting started.
To support brainstorming and thinking about options, think about skills or strengths you have or activities that you enjoy. For example, helping people, problem solving, working with others, creativity, detail oriented. Think about tasks you enjoy and accomplishments you are proud of. Think about things you enjoy learning about. The future outlook of the job market and emerging job availability is another key area. This is one to do research for on your own. As you look at descriptions of opportunities, see where you skills / passion areas might intersect.
As a separate note that may be helpful later down the line, think about going to work in an area or at a company where there is a culture of coaching and learning. Having this culture around you will support you in meeting your goals and growing in skills or objectives you set for yourself throughout your career.
First of all, I'd like to reiterate a common theme that it is completely ok not to know exactly what you want to do. You can also change paths throughout the course of your career to find what you ultimately enjoy the most. I'll give a few brief tips for getting started.
To support brainstorming and thinking about options, think about skills or strengths you have or activities that you enjoy. For example, helping people, problem solving, working with others, creativity, detail oriented. Think about tasks you enjoy and accomplishments you are proud of. Think about things you enjoy learning about. The future outlook of the job market and emerging job availability is another key area. This is one to do research for on your own. As you look at descriptions of opportunities, see where you skills / passion areas might intersect.
As a separate note that may be helpful later down the line, think about going to work in an area or at a company where there is a culture of coaching and learning. Having this culture around you will support you in meeting your goals and growing in skills or objectives you set for yourself throughout your career.
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Alyssa,
First, I would say don't rush as this is a very important and exciting decision. Second, I would say think about the various things that you like. And more specifically what you like about them. You may like math as a subject, but really it's the problem solving that you enjoy. It's characteristics like that which will help you narrow down the types of jobs you might like. Also rule out what you can. Both an engineer and a doctor solve problems, but if you're afraid at the sight of blood being a doctor might not be the best path. Lastly I would say to reach out to anyone that you can in the potential professions you are interested in and see if you can shadow them for a day or few days to see what they do and if you are truly interested in it.
To answer your initial question. I was one of those people that had multiple interests in high school and had a hard time narrowing down to major in college as well. After some research and speaking with different professors in different departments I chose business. For someone with a lot of interests business was a broad enough field that it allowed me to be able to find ways to pursue multiple interests at the same time. And also build a career where I can grow while pursuing multiple interests. I enjoy solving problems, and I enjoy technology. I get to work with technology to help solve problems for both myself and others everyday which I enjoy.
First, I would say don't rush as this is a very important and exciting decision. Second, I would say think about the various things that you like. And more specifically what you like about them. You may like math as a subject, but really it's the problem solving that you enjoy. It's characteristics like that which will help you narrow down the types of jobs you might like. Also rule out what you can. Both an engineer and a doctor solve problems, but if you're afraid at the sight of blood being a doctor might not be the best path. Lastly I would say to reach out to anyone that you can in the potential professions you are interested in and see if you can shadow them for a day or few days to see what they do and if you are truly interested in it.
To answer your initial question. I was one of those people that had multiple interests in high school and had a hard time narrowing down to major in college as well. After some research and speaking with different professors in different departments I chose business. For someone with a lot of interests business was a broad enough field that it allowed me to be able to find ways to pursue multiple interests at the same time. And also build a career where I can grow while pursuing multiple interests. I enjoy solving problems, and I enjoy technology. I get to work with technology to help solve problems for both myself and others everyday which I enjoy.
Updated
Claxton’s Answer
Hello, Alyssa. It's not unusual for people to not know exactly what they want to do in terms of career. It is also not unusual for people to start down one career path and wind up changing to another. My experience has been a combination of both.
I originally went to college to study civil engineering, but because I couldn't grasp differential equations, and because I was also battling some health issues, I ended up earning a degree in communication, and figured I would work in some capacity in radio or television. I spent a year working for a small video and audio production and advertising firm, and while I learned a lot in that job, there was no future for me with that firm.
So I took a temporary job with a major bank that paid more money and offered the opportunity to become permanent, which happened after five months. I spent four years as a document processor in our credit card department before moving to my current job, which involves design and analysis of business forms like envelopes, statement papers, applications, and legal disclosures. My credit card job and my engineering background helped me get that job, which I've been doing now for nearly 26 years.
As you can see, my career path has taken some twists and turns, but it has also allowed me to take what I've learned and build on it. Whatever path you start down may not be the one you stay on. I'm pulling for you to figure out what you want to do and, in doing so, be fulfilled at it.
I originally went to college to study civil engineering, but because I couldn't grasp differential equations, and because I was also battling some health issues, I ended up earning a degree in communication, and figured I would work in some capacity in radio or television. I spent a year working for a small video and audio production and advertising firm, and while I learned a lot in that job, there was no future for me with that firm.
So I took a temporary job with a major bank that paid more money and offered the opportunity to become permanent, which happened after five months. I spent four years as a document processor in our credit card department before moving to my current job, which involves design and analysis of business forms like envelopes, statement papers, applications, and legal disclosures. My credit card job and my engineering background helped me get that job, which I've been doing now for nearly 26 years.
As you can see, my career path has taken some twists and turns, but it has also allowed me to take what I've learned and build on it. Whatever path you start down may not be the one you stay on. I'm pulling for you to figure out what you want to do and, in doing so, be fulfilled at it.
Updated
Brianna’s Answer
Hi Alyssa,
I have to say my answer is pretty similar to the other responses above. When I graduated high school I knew I liked helping people, so I thought nursing would be the career choice for me. I went to a university and started to volunteer at a local hospital doing simple tasks, just so I can see what it’s really like. I quickly figured out it wasn’t the career for me, so I changed schools to a community college. While looking over their degrees I found an X-ray program that sparked my interest, and just gave it a shot! I ended up loving it because I already liked anatomy and all kinds of science, so it worked out perfectly for me. I would say just give things a go, try to shadow or volunteer when you get a chance, so you can make a decision for yourself whether you like it or not, and if your first try, or even first three or four tries doesn’t work out, that’s ok! You have plenty of time in life to find what you love to do. There were even classmates in my program in their 30s and 40s, so it’s never too late to change your mind. Good luck!
I have to say my answer is pretty similar to the other responses above. When I graduated high school I knew I liked helping people, so I thought nursing would be the career choice for me. I went to a university and started to volunteer at a local hospital doing simple tasks, just so I can see what it’s really like. I quickly figured out it wasn’t the career for me, so I changed schools to a community college. While looking over their degrees I found an X-ray program that sparked my interest, and just gave it a shot! I ended up loving it because I already liked anatomy and all kinds of science, so it worked out perfectly for me. I would say just give things a go, try to shadow or volunteer when you get a chance, so you can make a decision for yourself whether you like it or not, and if your first try, or even first three or four tries doesn’t work out, that’s ok! You have plenty of time in life to find what you love to do. There were even classmates in my program in their 30s and 40s, so it’s never too late to change your mind. Good luck!
Updated
Muhammad’s Answer
There's no rush to decide what you want to do right away. Just focus on learning the skills you're interested in. For instance, in today's software industry, you don't necessarily need a specific degree to land a job. If your goal is to make money while learning, why not look up the top 10 highest paying skills on YouTube? Once you've mastered a skill, you can start offering your services online or locally, using social platforms to display your work.
Let's say you're interested in web development. You could start by creating sample projects and showcasing them to attract potential clients. If you're more inclined towards the creative side, you could put together a portfolio of your work. Remember, you don't have to settle on a career path until you're ready. Experiment with different things, and if something doesn't work out, just move on to the next. This is a strategy I've noticed among successful business owners in my life.
I'm currently in the architecture field, so if you're considering a career in this area and need some guidance, feel free to reach out. I'd be more than happy to help!
Let's say you're interested in web development. You could start by creating sample projects and showcasing them to attract potential clients. If you're more inclined towards the creative side, you could put together a portfolio of your work. Remember, you don't have to settle on a career path until you're ready. Experiment with different things, and if something doesn't work out, just move on to the next. This is a strategy I've noticed among successful business owners in my life.
I'm currently in the architecture field, so if you're considering a career in this area and need some guidance, feel free to reach out. I'd be more than happy to help!
Updated
Veronica’s Answer
Hi Alyssa - A few thoughts that can provide some guidance and ease.
First, you can reduce the pressure on yourself by first thinking about the fact that the nature of the labor market has changed and will continue to change so quickly, that rather than have one career, you may have several careers over your life. That is because the nature of jobs is changing much faster than they did in previous generations. I personally have many peers who have already made one or two career shifts either due to need (the nature of their industry changed, their lifestyle priorities changed) or interest (they were a computer scientist and switched to become a lawyer, were a fisherman and became a physical therapist, were an economist and entered cybersecurity).
Second, rather than focus on one or more careers, it can be helpful to start by identifying 1) the types of problems you want to be solving and 2) the type of skills you enjoy and excel at flexing. For 1, some people like solving individual problems (helping patients in a medical context) while others like solving broader problems (making effective government policy, growing an important business solution). For 2, think about what skills you could enjoy flexing 8+ hours a day, as jobs are essentially the use of skills. If you like working with people, that will lead to a very different type of job than if you prefer a role that gives you more time for quiet focus.
Finally, given the labor market and world will continue to change, at the start of your career, one of the most valuable investments you can make is on a set of skills that will allow you to continue to grow and adapt to future careers.
First, you can reduce the pressure on yourself by first thinking about the fact that the nature of the labor market has changed and will continue to change so quickly, that rather than have one career, you may have several careers over your life. That is because the nature of jobs is changing much faster than they did in previous generations. I personally have many peers who have already made one or two career shifts either due to need (the nature of their industry changed, their lifestyle priorities changed) or interest (they were a computer scientist and switched to become a lawyer, were a fisherman and became a physical therapist, were an economist and entered cybersecurity).
Second, rather than focus on one or more careers, it can be helpful to start by identifying 1) the types of problems you want to be solving and 2) the type of skills you enjoy and excel at flexing. For 1, some people like solving individual problems (helping patients in a medical context) while others like solving broader problems (making effective government policy, growing an important business solution). For 2, think about what skills you could enjoy flexing 8+ hours a day, as jobs are essentially the use of skills. If you like working with people, that will lead to a very different type of job than if you prefer a role that gives you more time for quiet focus.
Finally, given the labor market and world will continue to change, at the start of your career, one of the most valuable investments you can make is on a set of skills that will allow you to continue to grow and adapt to future careers.
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Patty’s Answer
Find something you are passionate about but be open to new ideas. What are you values and stay true that.
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Gus’s Answer
When deciding between different career paths, consider 1) your interests/passions and 2) your skillset. This is the best starting point to get an idea of the type of career you want to pursue. From there, you can consider a variety of external factors (e.g. potential growth / learning opportunities, stability of that career path, salary/overall compensation growth. There are many, many factors to choose from so do not get overwhelmed. You always have the ability to switch if you feel like something isn't right. Take a short leap and find something that interests you. Good luck!
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Mary Patrice’s Answer
Hi, Alyssa! It’s perfectly okay not to have everything figured out. Choosing a career path can indeed be challenging, especially when you're unsure about your interests and financial needs. I recommend starting by exploring different fields through research, volunteer work, informational interviews, or internships. You can also try to get involved in various activities, whether they’re related to sports, music, art, or academics. This will help you gain experience and figure out your needs.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and ask for advice from teachers, family, and friends. Consider speaking with a career counselor who can offer personalized guidance. Remember, it’s all part of the journey to discovering what you might want to pursue in the future. Keep an open mind, and enjoy the process of learning about yourself and the world around you.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and ask for advice from teachers, family, and friends. Consider speaking with a career counselor who can offer personalized guidance. Remember, it’s all part of the journey to discovering what you might want to pursue in the future. Keep an open mind, and enjoy the process of learning about yourself and the world around you.
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Jerome’s Answer
The first step is to ask the question. It’s ok to be unsure about the future. Most people feel like they need to have things figured out, but high school and college can be used to try new things and explore different disciplines. I got an AA in general studies and that let me find a passion for Psychology by taking a Psych 101 class.
It’s ok to not have the answer, but take the opportunity to join clubs, attend career fairs and ask adults in your life about their selected career choice.
It’s ok to not have the answer, but take the opportunity to join clubs, attend career fairs and ask adults in your life about their selected career choice.