5 answers
danya
Student
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
2
Questions
Updated
282 views
How to choose a career path?
hello..I'm currently in 11th grade in the PCM (physics,chemistry,maths) group, and I’m struggling to choose a career path after 12th. I’ve lost interest in almost everything and don’t know what to do.
Initially, I chose the PCMB group, but i choosed PCM later.I used to be interested in coding, but I’ve lost that spark, and now studying computer science feels forced . I have no clue what direction to take for my future.
It’s the worst watching my peers have clear plans while I don’t even know where I’m headed. People keep asking me what I want to do, and I can’t answer because I genuinely don’t know. I keep jumping between ideas.It’s mentally exhausting, and I don’t know what to do anymore.I just want to do something that makes both me and my parents happy—something I won’t regret in the future.
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5 answers
Adit Sheth
Senior Software Engineer
98
Answers
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Adit’s Answer
Feeling a bit swamped while picking a career path is absolutely okay, particularly when things appear hazy and you're under the microscope of friends and family. Here's a friendly guide to help you navigate your way:
1. Time for Introspection:
Rediscover your passions: What are those topics or activities that used to ignite your enthusiasm? It's possible that stress has dimmed this flame, but revisiting old passions like coding or biology can provide a compass.
Unearth your talents: Reflect on your skills, be it problem-solving, creativity, or communication.
Evaluate your principles: What's important to you? Creativity, aiding others, stability, or making an impact? This can sculpt your career decision.
2. Investigate Potential Careers:
Begin by investigating fields associated with PCM (engineering, data science, physics) or PCMB (medicine, biotech, research). You might stumble upon cross-disciplinary careers like bioinformatics that blend biology and coding.
Utilize platforms like CareerVillage, LinkedIn, or career quizzes to delve into career possibilities and gain insights from professionals.
3. No Need to Hurry:
It's perfectly fine not to have all the answers right now. Many students feel adrift, and that's part of the journey. Venturing into various options and taking incremental steps can lead you to a rewarding career.
4. Engage in Conversations:
Connect with mentors, teachers, or professionals in areas that pique your interest. A chat can sometimes provide clarity or reveal options you hadn’t thought of.
5. Ease the Pressure:
The career you opt for after high school isn't a lifelong commitment. Many individuals switch fields or change direction later in life. Concentrate on finding something that fascinates you now and could unlock opportunities in the future.
6. Embrace Exploration:
Allow yourself the freedom to explore your interests without the stress of making a final decision. Consider internships, job shadowing, or part-time courses in areas that intrigue you.
Remember, landing on the perfect career requires time and patience, and it's okay to feel a bit lost. You're not alone. It's perfectly fine to explore and take steps toward discovering what truly brings you joy and satisfaction. Maintain an open mind, and don't be too tough on yourself. You'll find your way.
1. Time for Introspection:
Rediscover your passions: What are those topics or activities that used to ignite your enthusiasm? It's possible that stress has dimmed this flame, but revisiting old passions like coding or biology can provide a compass.
Unearth your talents: Reflect on your skills, be it problem-solving, creativity, or communication.
Evaluate your principles: What's important to you? Creativity, aiding others, stability, or making an impact? This can sculpt your career decision.
2. Investigate Potential Careers:
Begin by investigating fields associated with PCM (engineering, data science, physics) or PCMB (medicine, biotech, research). You might stumble upon cross-disciplinary careers like bioinformatics that blend biology and coding.
Utilize platforms like CareerVillage, LinkedIn, or career quizzes to delve into career possibilities and gain insights from professionals.
3. No Need to Hurry:
It's perfectly fine not to have all the answers right now. Many students feel adrift, and that's part of the journey. Venturing into various options and taking incremental steps can lead you to a rewarding career.
4. Engage in Conversations:
Connect with mentors, teachers, or professionals in areas that pique your interest. A chat can sometimes provide clarity or reveal options you hadn’t thought of.
5. Ease the Pressure:
The career you opt for after high school isn't a lifelong commitment. Many individuals switch fields or change direction later in life. Concentrate on finding something that fascinates you now and could unlock opportunities in the future.
6. Embrace Exploration:
Allow yourself the freedom to explore your interests without the stress of making a final decision. Consider internships, job shadowing, or part-time courses in areas that intrigue you.
Remember, landing on the perfect career requires time and patience, and it's okay to feel a bit lost. You're not alone. It's perfectly fine to explore and take steps toward discovering what truly brings you joy and satisfaction. Maintain an open mind, and don't be too tough on yourself. You'll find your way.
Rita Chuang
Physician
183
Answers
Henderson, Nevada
Updated
Rita’s Answer
Even if your classmates have a plan, that doesn't mean that they will follow it. In college, there were so many pre-med students but after the first semester, many dropped out. Even when I was in medical school, students would change their field every few months. That's ok. That's life.
I would try an externship for the summer or after school to get experience in the different fields. We as humans are constantly changing and
growing. I am not the same person I was 20 years ago and 10 years from now, I will still be changing. You are not the same person you were 5 years ago. You are changing, your friends will change and that's ok. It's ok to change jobs. How many people change their occupation? A lot.
There's nothing wrong with changing your job. Just learn from each experience and if you don't like that job, change to something else. Don't think of it as a failure but as a learning experience.
I would try an externship for the summer or after school to get experience in the different fields. We as humans are constantly changing and
growing. I am not the same person I was 20 years ago and 10 years from now, I will still be changing. You are not the same person you were 5 years ago. You are changing, your friends will change and that's ok. It's ok to change jobs. How many people change their occupation? A lot.
There's nothing wrong with changing your job. Just learn from each experience and if you don't like that job, change to something else. Don't think of it as a failure but as a learning experience.
Eric Packer
Structural engineer
91
Answers
Boise, Idaho
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Danya, a lot of what was in Adit's response is what I was going to mention. There is nothing wrong with where you are at in your journey towards preparing for and selecting a career. Everything has a purpose and is for our good, including the pivots that you have made in regard to what sort of a career to choose. Ultimately, you are not choosing a career as much as you are identifying and developing all that makes Danya, well, Danya. You have a unique set of passions and talents and as you enjoy this time of exploration to discover all of those unique passions and talents, your future will become clearer. In addition, all of the steps of discovery that you have made will prepare you to bring a unique and valuable perspective to the ultimate career path that you choose. All the best.
Dipti Parmar
Freelancer
1
Answer
Little Falls, Minnesota
Updated
Dipti’s Answer
Ok dear, relax take a deep breath n listen to your heart. Talk to yourself what do u want. In India its mind set to look cool u should go with the higher n tougher courses but dear don't stress yourself out because u need to make a right decision for yourself n for family n u can do that only when u r calm n relax.
Now the answer, honey
first answer : these course groups r for u. To make u choose the best for u. In which subject u r most interested, which subject u like the most,u find easy ,interesting to study. So based on these u choose your path.
Second answer : honey for now u complete your 12th with some good grades. And after 12th u can join college with bio subject.
This computer stuff is only for while until u finish up your 12th. So smile :) because u r doing good. N plus I have all these years ahead of u to do what u like.
Third answer : how to make family proud n so yourself. Honey u will be successful one day trust me. Because the way u r handling these bumps on your road with bravery n strength u r going to success there's no doubt. U just need to give it a little bit of time n then do what is close to your heart like bio. N u r there on top. Just give it time dear n have a good faith in u. U have good heart keep it. N be brave u r there.
U r still so young u have years ahead of u to do wonderful things enjoy life u deserve it n mean while try to study to. If u study with smile, dreams, n faith u r half way there.
Let me know if I've said something wrong or u need to know anything else about study.
Now the answer, honey
first answer : these course groups r for u. To make u choose the best for u. In which subject u r most interested, which subject u like the most,u find easy ,interesting to study. So based on these u choose your path.
Second answer : honey for now u complete your 12th with some good grades. And after 12th u can join college with bio subject.
This computer stuff is only for while until u finish up your 12th. So smile :) because u r doing good. N plus I have all these years ahead of u to do what u like.
Third answer : how to make family proud n so yourself. Honey u will be successful one day trust me. Because the way u r handling these bumps on your road with bravery n strength u r going to success there's no doubt. U just need to give it a little bit of time n then do what is close to your heart like bio. N u r there on top. Just give it time dear n have a good faith in u. U have good heart keep it. N be brave u r there.
U r still so young u have years ahead of u to do wonderful things enjoy life u deserve it n mean while try to study to. If u study with smile, dreams, n faith u r half way there.
Let me know if I've said something wrong or u need to know anything else about study.
Abirami S
Consultant
3
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Abirami’s Answer
Dear Danya,
Firstly, remember you are not alone with this experience, most of us have faced similar confusion and found our way out. So, you will too, its normal to have these kinds of questions. This is your chance to explore. Check if the below idea resonates with you
Talking to people with diverse backgrounds can be eye-opening, especially when you’re exploring career paths. Here’s how to approach it and why it’s valuable:
1. Identify People to Talk To
Start with people you know—family, friends, teachers, or neighbors. Ask if they, or someone they know, work in fields you’re curious about.
Don’t limit yourself to fields you already have in mind. Aim to learn from people in a wide range of careers. For example, talk to a software engineer, a journalist, an architect, or a scientist.
2. Prepare Questions
Their journey: Ask how they got into their field and what led them there. This can reveal unexpected paths and make you aware of options you hadn’t considered.
What They Like: Knowing what excites them about their job can help you understand whether you might share those interests.
Challenges and Regrets: Ask about the toughest parts of their job and things they wish they’d done differently. This can give you a realistic view of the work.
Skills Needed: This will help you understand what you need to succeed in a particular field. You may find that some skills appeal to you more than others.
3. Shadow for a Day or Take a Mini-Internship
If possible, ask if you can spend a day shadowing them or try a mini internship. Even a few hours can give you insight into the daily realities of their job.
You’ll get a feel for the work environment, the type of work they do, and how they interact with others, which is something you can’t learn just by reading or hearing about it.
4. Follow Up with Questions
After reflecting on the initial conversation, you may have more specific questions. Reach out again with follow-up questions, as this can deepen your understanding.
Consider asking them for recommendations on resources, such as books, websites, or courses, so you can explore further on your own.
5. Expand Your Network Gradually
You don’t need to reach out to everyone at once. Take your time, and as you meet more people, let one conversation lead naturally to the next.
When someone mentions another professional, they admire or whose job they think might interest you, ask if they can help you connect.
6. Reflect on What You Learn
Keep notes on each conversation. Write down what stood out, what surprised you, and any feelings of excitement or disinterest you felt. Over time, patterns will emerge, which can help guide your career exploration.
Why It’s Valuable
These conversations expose you to real-life stories, challenges, and successes that you might never find online. You’ll also begin to see the variety within fields, helping you narrow down what aligns with your interests and values. The firsthand knowledge from these professionals can demystify certain careers, making them feel more accessible and helping you make informed decisions.
Make a list of jobs you know, also find some online as well
Visit multiple places (banks, hospitals, railway station etc.) see what the jobs are available in real world.
Check if you can talk to people from various background to understand their jobs.
Firstly, remember you are not alone with this experience, most of us have faced similar confusion and found our way out. So, you will too, its normal to have these kinds of questions. This is your chance to explore. Check if the below idea resonates with you
Talking to people with diverse backgrounds can be eye-opening, especially when you’re exploring career paths. Here’s how to approach it and why it’s valuable:
1. Identify People to Talk To
Start with people you know—family, friends, teachers, or neighbors. Ask if they, or someone they know, work in fields you’re curious about.
Don’t limit yourself to fields you already have in mind. Aim to learn from people in a wide range of careers. For example, talk to a software engineer, a journalist, an architect, or a scientist.
2. Prepare Questions
Their journey: Ask how they got into their field and what led them there. This can reveal unexpected paths and make you aware of options you hadn’t considered.
What They Like: Knowing what excites them about their job can help you understand whether you might share those interests.
Challenges and Regrets: Ask about the toughest parts of their job and things they wish they’d done differently. This can give you a realistic view of the work.
Skills Needed: This will help you understand what you need to succeed in a particular field. You may find that some skills appeal to you more than others.
3. Shadow for a Day or Take a Mini-Internship
If possible, ask if you can spend a day shadowing them or try a mini internship. Even a few hours can give you insight into the daily realities of their job.
You’ll get a feel for the work environment, the type of work they do, and how they interact with others, which is something you can’t learn just by reading or hearing about it.
4. Follow Up with Questions
After reflecting on the initial conversation, you may have more specific questions. Reach out again with follow-up questions, as this can deepen your understanding.
Consider asking them for recommendations on resources, such as books, websites, or courses, so you can explore further on your own.
5. Expand Your Network Gradually
You don’t need to reach out to everyone at once. Take your time, and as you meet more people, let one conversation lead naturally to the next.
When someone mentions another professional, they admire or whose job they think might interest you, ask if they can help you connect.
6. Reflect on What You Learn
Keep notes on each conversation. Write down what stood out, what surprised you, and any feelings of excitement or disinterest you felt. Over time, patterns will emerge, which can help guide your career exploration.
Why It’s Valuable
These conversations expose you to real-life stories, challenges, and successes that you might never find online. You’ll also begin to see the variety within fields, helping you narrow down what aligns with your interests and values. The firsthand knowledge from these professionals can demystify certain careers, making them feel more accessible and helping you make informed decisions.
Abirami recommends the following next steps: