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What do you wish you had known about your position/the field before you started And what is a typical work day like??
As a current high school senior, I’m uncertain about which career path to pursue in, and with college applications approaching, I feel pressured to make a choice soon. I’d like to learn more about different fields to gain a better sense of direction before committing.
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7 answers
Updated
Denise’s Answer
Hello Ian!
I agree with Cathy's answer above, it's ok not to know. I would also suggest looking at Community Colleges to start. They will often be less expensive, but enable you to explore different courses while earning credits that will transfer to a four-year school. It may also be worth looking into trades to see if that is something that might interest you. There is demand in the market today for tradesmen (ie, electrician, plumber, etc.).
Personally I went to school for Art as that was a passion of mine. I focused on graphic design knowing I could build a career with that. Over time I transitioned into design program management and do that today for a consulting firm. While I'm not a hands on designer any longer, I am still able to work within the creative space and collaborate with designers regularly. As we work with various clients, there isn't necessarily a "typical workday". Depending on what I'm working on we'll do daily "stand ups" which are 15 minute team check ins to discuss what we accomplished the day before, what we plan to work on today and if we have any blockers impeding us from completing our work.
I would reiterate to be open to possibilities, not only now but throughout your career. When you do decide on a career path you can always pivot as you progress if something else piques your interest.
Best of luck to you in your future!
I agree with Cathy's answer above, it's ok not to know. I would also suggest looking at Community Colleges to start. They will often be less expensive, but enable you to explore different courses while earning credits that will transfer to a four-year school. It may also be worth looking into trades to see if that is something that might interest you. There is demand in the market today for tradesmen (ie, electrician, plumber, etc.).
Personally I went to school for Art as that was a passion of mine. I focused on graphic design knowing I could build a career with that. Over time I transitioned into design program management and do that today for a consulting firm. While I'm not a hands on designer any longer, I am still able to work within the creative space and collaborate with designers regularly. As we work with various clients, there isn't necessarily a "typical workday". Depending on what I'm working on we'll do daily "stand ups" which are 15 minute team check ins to discuss what we accomplished the day before, what we plan to work on today and if we have any blockers impeding us from completing our work.
I would reiterate to be open to possibilities, not only now but throughout your career. When you do decide on a career path you can always pivot as you progress if something else piques your interest.
Best of luck to you in your future!
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Primarily you should focus your career choice and supporting academia based upon those things that both interest and excite you. Easy for me to say, but you're probably thinking, "How will I know what will excite me in a specific role if I don't have an insight into the role itself", If this is the case, as I expect it will be, then take a step back and ask yourself the following questions:
1. Do I enjoy working with people or do I prefer to work alone?
2. Do I enjoy working with data?
3. Do I enjoy problem solving?
4. Do I enjoy working with my hands?
etc. You get the point. Please note nowhere above did I ask "Am I good at......" as being good at something will come with time and experience, find something you "enjoy" and the learning will follow. Finally, do not be afraid to make the wrong decision, do not let the wrong choice today define your tomorrow! As you embark upon your next chapter, focus on the 'Why' more than the 'What' and if you know for certain what you want to be then put everything you have into achieving the goals you will set yourself along the journey, and if not then do not pressure yourself, enjoy the ride and clarity has a funny way of presenting itself in time.
Go "Look & See" If you think you want to work in construction, reach out and seek some unpaid work experience during a summer break or weekend, if you want to be a veterinarian, then go to your local animal shelter or hospital and volunteer to work alongside the techs there. If these options are not available, then join focused groups on LinkedIn , however, a note of caution, be cautious of bias in these groups, take multiple data sources and in time you will be better placed to form your own opinions.
1. Do I enjoy working with people or do I prefer to work alone?
2. Do I enjoy working with data?
3. Do I enjoy problem solving?
4. Do I enjoy working with my hands?
etc. You get the point. Please note nowhere above did I ask "Am I good at......" as being good at something will come with time and experience, find something you "enjoy" and the learning will follow. Finally, do not be afraid to make the wrong decision, do not let the wrong choice today define your tomorrow! As you embark upon your next chapter, focus on the 'Why' more than the 'What' and if you know for certain what you want to be then put everything you have into achieving the goals you will set yourself along the journey, and if not then do not pressure yourself, enjoy the ride and clarity has a funny way of presenting itself in time.
Jason recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Cathy’s Answer
If I could share one thing: it's ok to not know what you specifically want to do. Find out what classes or programs colleges have to offer freshman that let you explore different business or science or other areas. That will help you learn what peaks your curiosity and what doesn't.
Be open to possibilities ! While most colleges ask your area of interest you often don't declare until sophomore year.
Be open to possibilities ! While most colleges ask your area of interest you often don't declare until sophomore year.
Updated
Keresa’s Answer
Hi Ian, awesome question.
I completed undergraduate (undergrad) in 2016 and though I find my career to be very rewarding, I strongly believe that I could’ve excelled quicker if I had completed more practical opportunities such as mentorship, internship, and certification programs (especially lean six sigma/project management or python/ computer analytics). I believe the best way to gain knowledge is through hands-on applications and exposure in the field. I’d encourage every student high school/college to take advantage of opportunities to complete projects, apply for mentorship, or connect with someone in varying fields to learn more ( which is exactly what you’re doing!). This suggestion continues into your career as well. As you grow as a professional opportunities may arise for you to explore or do more, as long as the time is right for you, go for it!
I am a supply chain operations manager and lead a team of nearly 100 people on each scheduled work day. I admit my hours are long, but my work week is short and allows for great work life balance. A typical day consists of planning for volume and staffing, connecting with team members, attending high level meetings, tracking daily and weekly progress, and ensuring my team has tools for success. I don’t expect my career will stop here because the opportunities are endless and the need to service customers is always here!
I’d like to share that many of my peers have different backgrounds. I worked in manufacturing while in undergrad and eventually reached this point in my career, others have military backgrounds, or only work experience. Your major may start your path, but ultimately your experiences will guide your steps.
I completed undergraduate (undergrad) in 2016 and though I find my career to be very rewarding, I strongly believe that I could’ve excelled quicker if I had completed more practical opportunities such as mentorship, internship, and certification programs (especially lean six sigma/project management or python/ computer analytics). I believe the best way to gain knowledge is through hands-on applications and exposure in the field. I’d encourage every student high school/college to take advantage of opportunities to complete projects, apply for mentorship, or connect with someone in varying fields to learn more ( which is exactly what you’re doing!). This suggestion continues into your career as well. As you grow as a professional opportunities may arise for you to explore or do more, as long as the time is right for you, go for it!
I am a supply chain operations manager and lead a team of nearly 100 people on each scheduled work day. I admit my hours are long, but my work week is short and allows for great work life balance. A typical day consists of planning for volume and staffing, connecting with team members, attending high level meetings, tracking daily and weekly progress, and ensuring my team has tools for success. I don’t expect my career will stop here because the opportunities are endless and the need to service customers is always here!
I’d like to share that many of my peers have different backgrounds. I worked in manufacturing while in undergrad and eventually reached this point in my career, others have military backgrounds, or only work experience. Your major may start your path, but ultimately your experiences will guide your steps.
Updated
Suzanne’s Answer
Hello Ian, during my university years, I switched my major three times. Initially, I embarked on an education course, then earned my first degree in Technology. I found employment at a warehouse for Eastman Kodak, where I discovered my passion for Logistics. My dedication and industriousness didn't go unnoticed.
Looking back, I wish I had advised myself to explore various job types to identify the industry I truly loved and could build a career in before settling on a major or career path. This might sound like a cliché 'follow your heart' advice, but if you don't find joy in your chosen industry, the journey could be more challenging than necessary.
Don't hesitate to experiment with part-time jobs in different sectors. It's a great way to understand what a career in that field would feel like.
Don't spend a lot of money on college. Explore Community Colleges
Try to stay debt free, even with college. It will serve you well in the long run
Work in part-time jobs or full time for a short period of time in industries you think you'll like.
Looking back, I wish I had advised myself to explore various job types to identify the industry I truly loved and could build a career in before settling on a major or career path. This might sound like a cliché 'follow your heart' advice, but if you don't find joy in your chosen industry, the journey could be more challenging than necessary.
Don't hesitate to experiment with part-time jobs in different sectors. It's a great way to understand what a career in that field would feel like.
Suzanne recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Helen’s Answer
Building on the excellent insights shared here, remember that you're never confined to a single path! My own journey began with studying history at university for two years before transitioning to general education. This change was driven by my part-time job as a swimming instructor, where the joy of seeing children excel was truly infectious.
Earning an education degree opened up a world of opportunities, enabling me to teach in various countries. For 15 years, I had the privilege of teaching students of all ages, from infants to adults. The thrill of witnessing students master a new skill was immeasurably rewarding!
Eventually, my career path led me to Human Resources within a tech firm. Now, I lead a dedicated team of seven, working together to create HR processes that genuinely support our employees' success and foster a sense of community within our company.
So, savor your ongoing journey of learning!
Earning an education degree opened up a world of opportunities, enabling me to teach in various countries. For 15 years, I had the privilege of teaching students of all ages, from infants to adults. The thrill of witnessing students master a new skill was immeasurably rewarding!
Eventually, my career path led me to Human Resources within a tech firm. Now, I lead a dedicated team of seven, working together to create HR processes that genuinely support our employees' success and foster a sense of community within our company.
So, savor your ongoing journey of learning!
Updated
Biplab’s Answer
Ian,
I wouldn't feel to worried about being forced to "commit" straight out of high school. You can switch your major in college and I'd argue that your choice of major isn't necessarily that important in terms of being able to enter certain fields such as IT, rather than being able to build strong problem-solving, analysis, and critical thinking skills.
I wouldn't feel to worried about being forced to "commit" straight out of high school. You can switch your major in college and I'd argue that your choice of major isn't necessarily that important in terms of being able to enter certain fields such as IT, rather than being able to build strong problem-solving, analysis, and critical thinking skills.