8 answers
Bridget
Student
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
1
Question
Asked
796 views
Stuck Between 2 Paths and graduating soon what should I do?
I am 21 and completing my final year in university as a psychology, forensic specialization and criminology dual major with a minor in youth and children studies. I have been struggling with deciding 'what to do with my life' for a long time but it has become serious as I need to start applying to graduate schools.
My first path/interest has to do with my majors. I am extremely interested in young offenders, at risk youth, mental health and criminality and general, and other forensic psychology related topics. I do not know what exact career I would want but I do have some ideas.
I am looking to pursue a masters degree in forensic psychology, I am not completely sure I like doing research which is what most if not all master/graduate programs consist of though. Fortunately I am doing a Honours thesis this year which may help but I'm still nervous about not being good enough to do these programs.
My other dilemma is that I have strong passions in another field. For the longest time I have wanted to be a singer it is my biggest passion, and I am honestly happiest singing. More recently I have developed a passion for musical theatre as it incorporates other things I like such as acting. However I have no experience or training in singing or theatre which makes it difficult to pursue.
For my entire life practically I've been interested in the arts: music, singing, writing, acting and so on but I feel like for one it is too late for me to pursue it.
I also really love my major(s) and feel passionate about doing things in that field but I also want to do theatre/the arts. I feel so stuck and I worry I will have issues pursuing a career in forensic psychology - I have mental health issues and this past year has been extremely difficult making my school work suffer so I worry I will get burnout and have another bad episode.
I wish there was a way to do both somehow because that would make me feel very complete but it seems impossible especially considering how much time both careers need and the importance of work life balance.
I am hoping someone has some insight. I apologize if this doesn't make sense
8 answers
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
560
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Bridget,
Congratulations on completing your final year! That's a huge accomplishment. Your situation is entirely understandable, and you're not alone in feeling torn between different passions. Balancing multiple interests and navigating career decisions is challenging, especially when you have strong feelings for both paths. Here’s how you might approach this dilemma:
1. Assessing Your Interests and Skills:
- Forensic Psychology: You're clearly passionate about this field, especially topics like young offenders and mental health. Pursuing a master's degree in forensic psychology could open up various career paths, such as working in juvenile justice, rehabilitation, or even policymaking. Your Honours thesis will indeed be a crucial indicator of your affinity for research, so use this year to explore whether you enjoy the academic side of forensic psychology. Remember, not all roles in forensic psychology are research-focused; some are more applied, involving direct work with clients.
- Singing and Musical Theatre: Your passion for the arts is strong, and it's clear that singing brings you joy. While you may feel that it's "too late" to pursue this path, many people start artistic careers later in life. Training and experience can be developed over time, and many community theaters or workshops offer beginner programs. Consider that a career in the arts often involves uncertainty and requires resilience, but it can also be incredibly fulfilling.
2. Exploring a Dual Path:
- Side Projects: You don't necessarily have to choose one over the other immediately. You could pursue your master's in forensic psychology while simultaneously engaging in singing or theater as a side project. This could involve joining a community choir, taking acting or singing classes, or participating in local theater productions. This approach allows you to keep your passion alive while building a more traditional career.
- Blending the Two: There might be ways to combine your interests. For example, art therapy or music therapy could be fields where you use creative arts to help at-risk youth or individuals within the criminal justice system. This could be an avenue to explore that merges your passions for psychology and the arts.
3. Managing Mental Health and Burnout:
- Self-Care: Given your concerns about mental health and burnout, it's essential to prioritize self-care and find a balance that works for you. Both forensic psychology and the arts can be demanding, so ensuring that you have a solid support system and coping mechanisms in place will be crucial.
- Part-Time or Freelance Work: If the idea of a full-time career in forensic psychology seems overwhelming, consider starting with part-time work or freelance opportunities in that field, allowing you to maintain a balance and explore your artistic interests simultaneously.
4. Long-Term Perspective:
- Flexibility: Remember, careers are not always linear. It's possible to start in one field and transition into another as your life circumstances and interests evolve. You might find that after a few years in forensic psychology, you're ready to pursue the arts more seriously, or vice versa.
- Life Experience: Both forensic psychology and the arts benefit from life experience. Even if you don't pursue singing or theater immediately, the experiences you gain in psychology could enrich your artistic endeavors later on.
5. Decision-Making Tools:
- Pros and Cons: Create a list of pros and cons for each path, considering factors like job stability, personal fulfillment, financial considerations, and long-term goals.
- Talk to Mentors: Speak with professors, professionals in forensic psychology, and individuals in the arts. Their insights could provide clarity and help you understand the realities of each path.
- Try Shadowing: If possible, shadow professionals in forensic psychology and participate in a few introductory arts classes or workshops. First-hand experience can be invaluable in making your decision.
6. Embrace the Journey:
- It’s Okay to Pivot: Your career path doesn't have to be set in stone. It’s okay to change directions as you discover more about yourself and what truly makes you happy.
- Be Kind to Yourself: It's normal to feel uncertain, especially when faced with such significant decisions. Give yourself permission to explore, make mistakes, and grow from the experience.
Your passion and dedication in both fields are evident, and whatever path you choose, it's clear that you have the potential to make a meaningful impact. Keep exploring and be patient with yourself as you navigate this complex decision.
Best wishes!
Congratulations on completing your final year! That's a huge accomplishment. Your situation is entirely understandable, and you're not alone in feeling torn between different passions. Balancing multiple interests and navigating career decisions is challenging, especially when you have strong feelings for both paths. Here’s how you might approach this dilemma:
1. Assessing Your Interests and Skills:
- Forensic Psychology: You're clearly passionate about this field, especially topics like young offenders and mental health. Pursuing a master's degree in forensic psychology could open up various career paths, such as working in juvenile justice, rehabilitation, or even policymaking. Your Honours thesis will indeed be a crucial indicator of your affinity for research, so use this year to explore whether you enjoy the academic side of forensic psychology. Remember, not all roles in forensic psychology are research-focused; some are more applied, involving direct work with clients.
- Singing and Musical Theatre: Your passion for the arts is strong, and it's clear that singing brings you joy. While you may feel that it's "too late" to pursue this path, many people start artistic careers later in life. Training and experience can be developed over time, and many community theaters or workshops offer beginner programs. Consider that a career in the arts often involves uncertainty and requires resilience, but it can also be incredibly fulfilling.
2. Exploring a Dual Path:
- Side Projects: You don't necessarily have to choose one over the other immediately. You could pursue your master's in forensic psychology while simultaneously engaging in singing or theater as a side project. This could involve joining a community choir, taking acting or singing classes, or participating in local theater productions. This approach allows you to keep your passion alive while building a more traditional career.
- Blending the Two: There might be ways to combine your interests. For example, art therapy or music therapy could be fields where you use creative arts to help at-risk youth or individuals within the criminal justice system. This could be an avenue to explore that merges your passions for psychology and the arts.
3. Managing Mental Health and Burnout:
- Self-Care: Given your concerns about mental health and burnout, it's essential to prioritize self-care and find a balance that works for you. Both forensic psychology and the arts can be demanding, so ensuring that you have a solid support system and coping mechanisms in place will be crucial.
- Part-Time or Freelance Work: If the idea of a full-time career in forensic psychology seems overwhelming, consider starting with part-time work or freelance opportunities in that field, allowing you to maintain a balance and explore your artistic interests simultaneously.
4. Long-Term Perspective:
- Flexibility: Remember, careers are not always linear. It's possible to start in one field and transition into another as your life circumstances and interests evolve. You might find that after a few years in forensic psychology, you're ready to pursue the arts more seriously, or vice versa.
- Life Experience: Both forensic psychology and the arts benefit from life experience. Even if you don't pursue singing or theater immediately, the experiences you gain in psychology could enrich your artistic endeavors later on.
5. Decision-Making Tools:
- Pros and Cons: Create a list of pros and cons for each path, considering factors like job stability, personal fulfillment, financial considerations, and long-term goals.
- Talk to Mentors: Speak with professors, professionals in forensic psychology, and individuals in the arts. Their insights could provide clarity and help you understand the realities of each path.
- Try Shadowing: If possible, shadow professionals in forensic psychology and participate in a few introductory arts classes or workshops. First-hand experience can be invaluable in making your decision.
6. Embrace the Journey:
- It’s Okay to Pivot: Your career path doesn't have to be set in stone. It’s okay to change directions as you discover more about yourself and what truly makes you happy.
- Be Kind to Yourself: It's normal to feel uncertain, especially when faced with such significant decisions. Give yourself permission to explore, make mistakes, and grow from the experience.
Your passion and dedication in both fields are evident, and whatever path you choose, it's clear that you have the potential to make a meaningful impact. Keep exploring and be patient with yourself as you navigate this complex decision.
Best wishes!
Ryan Singleton
Appraisal Manager
9
Answers
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Hi Bridget. I'll give you the quick answer...YES, you can do both and it's never too late!! I've been a performing musician and a corporate professional for over 20 years, so I'm proof that it can be done! I'd recommend finding a community of other artists/musicians or perhaps a small local theater that you can get involved with and start honing your craft. You'll find that there are many others like yourself, and that you can pursue your passion in your off time if you find another career related to your main field of study. Go out there and get it!
Debbie Fasenmyer
Artist
23
Answers
Cape Coral, Florida
Updated
Debbie’s Answer
Congratulations on everything you’ve accomplished this far. That’s incredible. I am an artist and a nationally certified mental health first aider for youth and adults. I too have a passion for youth. I believe you can definitely combine all of your passions. Art is extremely healing and therapeutic. Acting, singing and any type of performance art is an excellent way to express emotions. Art advocacy around mental health is a great way to share the importance of self-care on a physical, mental and emotional level.
Creative arts and healthcare is something to consider. Many hospitals have arts programs. Because of your interest in forensic psychology you might even consider something in a substance rehabilitation center. Many in care and outpatient facilities use art, journaling and other forms of holistic care. Music therapy, sound therapy and energy arts such as yoga, laughter yoga, dance and meditation can help to reduce anxiety and depression.
Centers for women in crisis or a jail ministry might also interest you. Working with at risk youth would be a very honorable. Creativity and healing go hand in hand. Helping others tap into their creativity can be very rewarding. Grief counseling using complementary therapy as a way to process feelings can be very beneficial.
I’d suggest seeing if any youth ranches that are affiliated with your local law enforcement agencies have arts programs. I’d see if your local hospital has an arts program. You might enjoy working with veterans or families that have deployed loved ones. PTSD and healing arts is another important topic to look into.
I spent twenty years in the holistic wellness industry and got to see first hand how healing arts such as massage therapy, energy work, aromatherapy and similar practices helped people manage physical and emotional pain.
Corporate wellness is more popular and important than ever. Many companies, organizations and even non profit groups are prioritizing mental health and wellbeing. Our local health care system used to have themed benefits fairs. It was a great way for me to use my artistic skills and creativity. We got to dress up in themed clothing, decorate our tables and make up gift bags and gift baskets to coordinate with the theme.
Many assisted living facilities have musicians play for their residents. They have sing alongs and other festivities for holidays throughout the year. I personally did some clowning in my youth. So if you enjoy performing see if you could volunteer your time to get a feel for what it might be like. Children’s hospitals may also have the opportunity for you to volunteer to see if it’s something you enjoy.
I believe nothing is random and that you have specific gifts and talents that are meant to be used together. I hope this gives you just a few ideas of what’s actually possible. Best of luck in your endeavors.
Creative arts and healthcare is something to consider. Many hospitals have arts programs. Because of your interest in forensic psychology you might even consider something in a substance rehabilitation center. Many in care and outpatient facilities use art, journaling and other forms of holistic care. Music therapy, sound therapy and energy arts such as yoga, laughter yoga, dance and meditation can help to reduce anxiety and depression.
Centers for women in crisis or a jail ministry might also interest you. Working with at risk youth would be a very honorable. Creativity and healing go hand in hand. Helping others tap into their creativity can be very rewarding. Grief counseling using complementary therapy as a way to process feelings can be very beneficial.
I’d suggest seeing if any youth ranches that are affiliated with your local law enforcement agencies have arts programs. I’d see if your local hospital has an arts program. You might enjoy working with veterans or families that have deployed loved ones. PTSD and healing arts is another important topic to look into.
I spent twenty years in the holistic wellness industry and got to see first hand how healing arts such as massage therapy, energy work, aromatherapy and similar practices helped people manage physical and emotional pain.
Corporate wellness is more popular and important than ever. Many companies, organizations and even non profit groups are prioritizing mental health and wellbeing. Our local health care system used to have themed benefits fairs. It was a great way for me to use my artistic skills and creativity. We got to dress up in themed clothing, decorate our tables and make up gift bags and gift baskets to coordinate with the theme.
Many assisted living facilities have musicians play for their residents. They have sing alongs and other festivities for holidays throughout the year. I personally did some clowning in my youth. So if you enjoy performing see if you could volunteer your time to get a feel for what it might be like. Children’s hospitals may also have the opportunity for you to volunteer to see if it’s something you enjoy.
I believe nothing is random and that you have specific gifts and talents that are meant to be used together. I hope this gives you just a few ideas of what’s actually possible. Best of luck in your endeavors.
Penelope Clizbe
Shift Supervisor
3
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Penelope’s Answer
Hello Bridget! You sound like myself, 22 years old and indecisive on what career to pursue. I am going to tell you a little about my story in hopes that it will help you and others ~
As someone who enjoys learning what they are passionate about, it is difficult when you are interested in more than one area. I have my Bachelor's degree in psychology, which I am passionate about and have been since high school. I took courses in different subjects that interested me throughout college here and there for fun. Well, also to help myself learn what it is that I am most passionate and interested in. However, after graduation, I knew I was not ready for grad school. I needed a break from course material, and needed to learn more about myself. What exactly do I want to pursue? What's my next step? Should it be this or that? What if it doesn't work out and I waste time trying? So much questioning going through my mind for months, almost a year. I took this time to think. With this time, I had discovered that I do still enjoy psychology, but I am much more passionate about the biological aspect of it, specifically the brain. Neuroscience! I found what I want to do, but now what?
This is when I began doing research: "how to become a neuroscientist," "masters programs for neuroscience," "what do neuroscientists do," etc.. This is when I found that I lack knowledge for my intended field. So, I started from the beginning. I went back to community college to start on a biological sciences Associates degree, as well as some biology courses to help with my future studying. At first, this felt wrong to me. It felt like I was going backwards and not forward. I was told, "what's the point of going back to community college?" After taking a semester of classes, I knew it was the right decision. The content I was learning motivated me more than ever to pursue on with school. However, I do feel like experience in a related job to your degree would help you with figuring out if that is something you want to do or not as well.
Doing all of this - taking a break, questioning, researching, and exploring - has helped me figure out what I want to do for a career. Although I have not yet decided a specific job, I still have time for that. For now, I at least know what interests me, motivates me, and excites me. These are important to carry out throughout your schooling and career.
What I would suggest:
1. Take your time. Do not feel rushed and commit to something that you are unsure about, especially if it is grad school, where it is expensive and time demanding. Take time for yourself, learn more about yourself.
2. Explore your options. Try some courses in singing and theatre! Or volunteer or find a job that would get you experience to try something out. IT'S NEVER TOO LATE.
3. Research. Investigate what different paths are available to you - what do those look like? Which would you like best?
4. Trust yourself. Only you know what you want to do and what is best for you. Do not compare yourself to others.
5. Relax. In this period in life, we feel so much pressure to finish school, go to grad school, find a good job, and work towards your career. This is what makes us feel rushed. However, many of us are indecisive on what to do. It's normal, but this is why learning about yourself with time and effort is important at this period in life as well.
I hope this helps.
Best,
Penelope
As someone who enjoys learning what they are passionate about, it is difficult when you are interested in more than one area. I have my Bachelor's degree in psychology, which I am passionate about and have been since high school. I took courses in different subjects that interested me throughout college here and there for fun. Well, also to help myself learn what it is that I am most passionate and interested in. However, after graduation, I knew I was not ready for grad school. I needed a break from course material, and needed to learn more about myself. What exactly do I want to pursue? What's my next step? Should it be this or that? What if it doesn't work out and I waste time trying? So much questioning going through my mind for months, almost a year. I took this time to think. With this time, I had discovered that I do still enjoy psychology, but I am much more passionate about the biological aspect of it, specifically the brain. Neuroscience! I found what I want to do, but now what?
This is when I began doing research: "how to become a neuroscientist," "masters programs for neuroscience," "what do neuroscientists do," etc.. This is when I found that I lack knowledge for my intended field. So, I started from the beginning. I went back to community college to start on a biological sciences Associates degree, as well as some biology courses to help with my future studying. At first, this felt wrong to me. It felt like I was going backwards and not forward. I was told, "what's the point of going back to community college?" After taking a semester of classes, I knew it was the right decision. The content I was learning motivated me more than ever to pursue on with school. However, I do feel like experience in a related job to your degree would help you with figuring out if that is something you want to do or not as well.
Doing all of this - taking a break, questioning, researching, and exploring - has helped me figure out what I want to do for a career. Although I have not yet decided a specific job, I still have time for that. For now, I at least know what interests me, motivates me, and excites me. These are important to carry out throughout your schooling and career.
What I would suggest:
1. Take your time. Do not feel rushed and commit to something that you are unsure about, especially if it is grad school, where it is expensive and time demanding. Take time for yourself, learn more about yourself.
2. Explore your options. Try some courses in singing and theatre! Or volunteer or find a job that would get you experience to try something out. IT'S NEVER TOO LATE.
3. Research. Investigate what different paths are available to you - what do those look like? Which would you like best?
4. Trust yourself. Only you know what you want to do and what is best for you. Do not compare yourself to others.
5. Relax. In this period in life, we feel so much pressure to finish school, go to grad school, find a good job, and work towards your career. This is what makes us feel rushed. However, many of us are indecisive on what to do. It's normal, but this is why learning about yourself with time and effort is important at this period in life as well.
I hope this helps.
Best,
Penelope
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1880
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Bridget !
What a wonderful and important question ! You are very ambitious and have so many interests, but I hope my advice can put some ease to things you are experiencing. I will not try to tell you what to do because only you can make that decision, but you do have some choices. Let's begin with the Psychology aspect of this.
Congratulations on almost completing your Bachelors Degree ! That is fantastic and a great achievement. Here's what I want to tell you: you have studied to be in the mental health field and it doesn't have to be that you have a said specialty. Psychologists are sort of generalists and can work with every issue, every population. Most likely you will have a client that has been involved with crime or even re-entry issues in their past or present. You will work with every issue and type of person. You've had enough specific psychology courses to know everything from A to Z. So if you still believe that you want to be in the mental health field, you have two choices that I could see (and I am going by an American path). Either follow through with your Masters in Psychology or do your Masters in Social Work. Both Masters programs do usually consist of a great deal of case study and research, though, which you've mentioned you're not too keen on. So decide if you want to follow through with a career as a mental health professional.
I am also here to say that your desire to be a performer, music, singing, writing, and acting, is open to you at anytime. It is definitely not too late at all. The situation is, that you are correct. You would not be able to be a mental health professional and at the same time take on a professional performance career when it comes to acting or musical theatre and I imagine it's true if you want to be a professional singer, too. Performance careers require unusual amounts of time and you would have to be available for when you are chosen to work on a show. You either have to do it all the way or occasionally do community theatre or student films once in a while. I know it's a hard choice because being a mental health professional is a more steady and reliable career whereas being a performer is pure chance for every audition you go to. If you do decide to go into performing, I would definitely recommend that you major in theatre or film for your Masters and also take community based acting and singing lessons. But remember that performing professionally has so many specific unreliable elements to it whereas the mental health field has positions in several different realms and levels for professionals. The choice is hard because no one can actually tell you what to do for this. First you make a decision between psychology and performing and then take the steps that are necessary.
Right now with the education that you have, you are competitive in the labor market for a psychology career, even more so after you get your psychology Masters. Since you have no training or experience in acting or singing you will have to start from the beginning. Your knowledge of psychology will greatly help you with acting, though. This is a decision that will need some time. You have to weigh out the pros and cons of both careers and which factors are the most important to you. Psychology gets pretty deep and stressful when working with the patients or clients and you will hear many stories during your work day and see things that are traumatic and sad. This can be mentally and emotionally tiring after a while, so you should think of your well-being and know your limits.
Another thing to consider is that the entertainment industry hubs in Canada are in Vancouver and Toronto. That doesn't mean that Ontario is devoid of production - they are consistently a good participant for the film and production industry. I personally love Canadian film.
So you have made the first step with this - recognizing that your thoughts will soon have to be backed up with actions and a plan. Be true to yourself and your feelings at this time and know that you can make a decision that will create happiness and fulfillment through whichever work you do. So start making a list of the pros and cons of both careers and evaluate the cause and effects of what you want to do. You deserve to be happy in your work.
I hope that this is something to think about and hopefully you will gradually have a decision that you will feel 100% comfortable with. Do return here for support and advice anytime ! Wishing you well and all good things !
What a wonderful and important question ! You are very ambitious and have so many interests, but I hope my advice can put some ease to things you are experiencing. I will not try to tell you what to do because only you can make that decision, but you do have some choices. Let's begin with the Psychology aspect of this.
Congratulations on almost completing your Bachelors Degree ! That is fantastic and a great achievement. Here's what I want to tell you: you have studied to be in the mental health field and it doesn't have to be that you have a said specialty. Psychologists are sort of generalists and can work with every issue, every population. Most likely you will have a client that has been involved with crime or even re-entry issues in their past or present. You will work with every issue and type of person. You've had enough specific psychology courses to know everything from A to Z. So if you still believe that you want to be in the mental health field, you have two choices that I could see (and I am going by an American path). Either follow through with your Masters in Psychology or do your Masters in Social Work. Both Masters programs do usually consist of a great deal of case study and research, though, which you've mentioned you're not too keen on. So decide if you want to follow through with a career as a mental health professional.
I am also here to say that your desire to be a performer, music, singing, writing, and acting, is open to you at anytime. It is definitely not too late at all. The situation is, that you are correct. You would not be able to be a mental health professional and at the same time take on a professional performance career when it comes to acting or musical theatre and I imagine it's true if you want to be a professional singer, too. Performance careers require unusual amounts of time and you would have to be available for when you are chosen to work on a show. You either have to do it all the way or occasionally do community theatre or student films once in a while. I know it's a hard choice because being a mental health professional is a more steady and reliable career whereas being a performer is pure chance for every audition you go to. If you do decide to go into performing, I would definitely recommend that you major in theatre or film for your Masters and also take community based acting and singing lessons. But remember that performing professionally has so many specific unreliable elements to it whereas the mental health field has positions in several different realms and levels for professionals. The choice is hard because no one can actually tell you what to do for this. First you make a decision between psychology and performing and then take the steps that are necessary.
Right now with the education that you have, you are competitive in the labor market for a psychology career, even more so after you get your psychology Masters. Since you have no training or experience in acting or singing you will have to start from the beginning. Your knowledge of psychology will greatly help you with acting, though. This is a decision that will need some time. You have to weigh out the pros and cons of both careers and which factors are the most important to you. Psychology gets pretty deep and stressful when working with the patients or clients and you will hear many stories during your work day and see things that are traumatic and sad. This can be mentally and emotionally tiring after a while, so you should think of your well-being and know your limits.
Another thing to consider is that the entertainment industry hubs in Canada are in Vancouver and Toronto. That doesn't mean that Ontario is devoid of production - they are consistently a good participant for the film and production industry. I personally love Canadian film.
So you have made the first step with this - recognizing that your thoughts will soon have to be backed up with actions and a plan. Be true to yourself and your feelings at this time and know that you can make a decision that will create happiness and fulfillment through whichever work you do. So start making a list of the pros and cons of both careers and evaluate the cause and effects of what you want to do. You deserve to be happy in your work.
I hope that this is something to think about and hopefully you will gradually have a decision that you will feel 100% comfortable with. Do return here for support and advice anytime ! Wishing you well and all good things !
Deborah Unger
Actor/writer
11
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Deborah’s Answer
It's so good that you are asking this question as you shape your future.
There are some other questions you should ask as well. How much money do you expect to make? What level of security do you want in your life in terms of money and stability? How important is each field to you?
Going into a science field means you will have a specific 40 hour (or more) a week job. You will have a stable income and be able to plan ahead.
Going into the arts, everything is fluid. You don't know how much money you will be making. You need to continually train, and you need to fit that in with how much money you have, your temp jobs, and your other interests. With a career (singing) in the arts, you will be directing your own path. You may not always get what you want. You will constantly be the one to make plans and follow them through, while being flexible enough to change those plans when an opportunity or a life event derails you.
If the arts is NOT where you expect to earn your living, then there are lots of options open to you. You could join a choir. Find a music director an create a cabaret show that you do on the side. You could find a group of like-minded friends and form a band that plays out for fun.
I guess what I am saying is that if you want a career as a singer, it would be difficult to also have a career as a forensic scientist.
But you CAN have a career as a forensic scientist and sing as a hobby.
Hope this helps. Best of luck.
There are some other questions you should ask as well. How much money do you expect to make? What level of security do you want in your life in terms of money and stability? How important is each field to you?
Going into a science field means you will have a specific 40 hour (or more) a week job. You will have a stable income and be able to plan ahead.
Going into the arts, everything is fluid. You don't know how much money you will be making. You need to continually train, and you need to fit that in with how much money you have, your temp jobs, and your other interests. With a career (singing) in the arts, you will be directing your own path. You may not always get what you want. You will constantly be the one to make plans and follow them through, while being flexible enough to change those plans when an opportunity or a life event derails you.
If the arts is NOT where you expect to earn your living, then there are lots of options open to you. You could join a choir. Find a music director an create a cabaret show that you do on the side. You could find a group of like-minded friends and form a band that plays out for fun.
I guess what I am saying is that if you want a career as a singer, it would be difficult to also have a career as a forensic scientist.
But you CAN have a career as a forensic scientist and sing as a hobby.
Hope this helps. Best of luck.
Margo Davis
1
Answer
Buffalo, New York
Updated
Margo’s Answer
Your question is indeed valuable. I can understand. And I can see the connection among them. I'm wondering if you might want to consider working in the field of your interest for a year - psychology, or forensics or criminology, or youth and children to glean a perspective other than academia - so that you can more clearly sort out the direction that you want to go. I was "programmed" to go right on to grad school with several options, but one day I woke up asking, "Do I have to do that right now?" I chose not to, i worked in my field, found a direction, and returned to Grad School with a new found confidence and direction.
Regarding the singing and the acting, I'm wondering if, while working for a year, you might join a community theatre or a choral group. That, too, will help you figure out your direction and strength without the stress and fear of failure that we all have from time to time.
I'm sure you will make the right decision. Meet with optimism the opportunities that come your way, and you will sour! Best to you.
Regarding the singing and the acting, I'm wondering if, while working for a year, you might join a community theatre or a choral group. That, too, will help you figure out your direction and strength without the stress and fear of failure that we all have from time to time.
I'm sure you will make the right decision. Meet with optimism the opportunities that come your way, and you will sour! Best to you.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6193
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Bridget thank you for your question, that's OK that's what I am here for.
ME:-
You are in a very important field indeed, specializing in psychology. The reason being is the requirement for psychotherapists seems to be increasing quite rapidly. Demand for therapists is outstripping supply. In our country Australia mental health disorders in young Australians surged by 47 per cent over 15 years. Things seem to be worse with the advent of social media platforms.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-05/abs-data-shows-mental-health-anxiety-depression-rising/102928618
If you are trying to decide between specializations, why not do both! I have met medical doctors with a passion for musical instruments like the violin as well as medicine and they have continued with learning both.
AI:-
I'd be glad to provide a comprehensive response to your query!
**Key Considerations:**
1. **Mental Health:** Prioritize your mental health. If graduate school is causing significant stress, consider alternative paths or seeking support.
2. **Career Exploration:** Explore both forensic psychology and the arts to determine if you can find a fulfilling intersection.
3. **Part-Time Options:** Consider part-time graduate programs or internships to balance your studies with other pursuits.
4. **Networking:** Build connections in both fields to gain insights and explore potential opportunities.
5. **Short-Term Goals:** Set achievable short-term goals to stay motivated and focused.
**Potential Paths:**
1. **Forensic Psychology with Arts Integration:** Explore graduate programs or research opportunities that incorporate elements of the arts, such as forensic art analysis or therapeutic interventions using creative modalities.
2. **Forensic Psychology Consulting with Arts Focus:** Consider consulting roles that involve applying forensic psychology principles to creative fields, such as intellectual property law or entertainment industry disputes.
3. **Arts-Based Therapy:** Explore graduate programs in counseling or social work with a focus on arts-based therapy to combine your passions for psychology and the arts.
4. **Part-Time Arts Pursuits:** Pursue your artistic interests part-time or on weekends to maintain your passion while focusing on your academic career.
**Additional Tips:**
- **Seek Guidance:** Consult with career counselors, professors, or mentors in both fields to gain insights and advice.
- **Explore Online Resources:** Research online resources and communities related to forensic psychology and the arts to connect with like-minded individuals.
- **Be Open to Change:** Be open to the possibility of changing your career path if you find it's not the right fit.
- **Trust Yourself:** Ultimately, the best decision is the one that aligns with your values, passions, and mental well-being.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The most important thing is to explore your options, gather information, and make a decision that feels right for you.
ME:-
You are in a very important field indeed, specializing in psychology. The reason being is the requirement for psychotherapists seems to be increasing quite rapidly. Demand for therapists is outstripping supply. In our country Australia mental health disorders in young Australians surged by 47 per cent over 15 years. Things seem to be worse with the advent of social media platforms.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-05/abs-data-shows-mental-health-anxiety-depression-rising/102928618
If you are trying to decide between specializations, why not do both! I have met medical doctors with a passion for musical instruments like the violin as well as medicine and they have continued with learning both.
AI:-
I'd be glad to provide a comprehensive response to your query!
**Key Considerations:**
1. **Mental Health:** Prioritize your mental health. If graduate school is causing significant stress, consider alternative paths or seeking support.
2. **Career Exploration:** Explore both forensic psychology and the arts to determine if you can find a fulfilling intersection.
3. **Part-Time Options:** Consider part-time graduate programs or internships to balance your studies with other pursuits.
4. **Networking:** Build connections in both fields to gain insights and explore potential opportunities.
5. **Short-Term Goals:** Set achievable short-term goals to stay motivated and focused.
**Potential Paths:**
1. **Forensic Psychology with Arts Integration:** Explore graduate programs or research opportunities that incorporate elements of the arts, such as forensic art analysis or therapeutic interventions using creative modalities.
2. **Forensic Psychology Consulting with Arts Focus:** Consider consulting roles that involve applying forensic psychology principles to creative fields, such as intellectual property law or entertainment industry disputes.
3. **Arts-Based Therapy:** Explore graduate programs in counseling or social work with a focus on arts-based therapy to combine your passions for psychology and the arts.
4. **Part-Time Arts Pursuits:** Pursue your artistic interests part-time or on weekends to maintain your passion while focusing on your academic career.
**Additional Tips:**
- **Seek Guidance:** Consult with career counselors, professors, or mentors in both fields to gain insights and advice.
- **Explore Online Resources:** Research online resources and communities related to forensic psychology and the arts to connect with like-minded individuals.
- **Be Open to Change:** Be open to the possibility of changing your career path if you find it's not the right fit.
- **Trust Yourself:** Ultimately, the best decision is the one that aligns with your values, passions, and mental well-being.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The most important thing is to explore your options, gather information, and make a decision that feels right for you.
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