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What do you do when you are not sure about your future career?

I think I want to study Medicine but I'm not sure. I also like travelling.

career-path career-counseling
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Doc’s Answer

Working in healthcare offers great job security, a decent salary, and an opportunity to perform meaningful work each day. These jobs will allow you to make a positive impact in people’s lives and enjoy great job security without sacrificing your sanity. People who work in these jobs can be some of the happiest employees in the workforce.

❤️‍🩹 CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT (CNA)
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are typically based in inpatient settings such as hospitals or skilled nursing facilities. Training and certification can take anywhere from a few weeks to nine months. Duties are assisting with mobility (ambulating or repositioning patients), taking vital signs, and sometimes administering ordered medications under the supervision of a physician or RN. Becoming a CNA can be a great starting point for those hoping to become a registered nurse. CNAs can work in many different clinical areas and provide hands-on care to diverse patient populations. This helps them not only when it comes time to apply for a nursing program, but when they begin the program as well. Much of the first few months of nursing school is learning the duties that a CNA performs.
• Median salary: $43,000
• Education required: High school diploma, CNA certification programs that include a minimum of 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of supervised training.

🩺 MEDICAL ASSISTANT
Medical assistants typically work in doctors' offices or clinics and are responsible for things like scheduling patient appointments, measuring vital signs, and cleaning rooms in between patients. While medical assistants can have busy shifts, medical assistants do not often deal with emergent situations or have to handle unexpected problems. If you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant, check out our online medical assistant programs which includes support for finding an in-person externship and coaching when looking for a full-time job.
• Median salary: $42,000
• Education required: High school diploma, medical assistant certification preferred.

🦷 DENTAL ASSISTANT
Dental assistants help a regular dentist with various treatment procedures, like fillings and extractions. They talk with patients, take and develop dental X-rays, take and pour dental impressions and operate equipment and monitors. Dental assistants also prepare patient rooms and instruments and perform administrative tasks like record keeping. Complete a dental assisting program from an accredited institution, which usually involves a high school diploma, and may require additional courses like radiation safety, infection control, and basic life support certification.
• Median salary: $43,500
• Education required: High school diploma, dental assistant certification preferred.

💊 PHARMACY TECHNICIAN
Pharmacy technicians usually work in retail pharmacies or hospitals and are responsible for organizing medications, helping patients fill their prescriptions, or sometimes mixing medications. Most pharmacy technicians work during regular business hours and there is always a pharmacist nearby to offer guidance and assistance as needed. If you’re interested in becoming a pharmacy technician, check out online pharmacy technician programs which includes support for finding an in-person externship and coaching as you look for a full-time job.
• Median salary: $40,500
• Education required: High school diploma, pharmacy technician certification preferred.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Yvonne
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Yvonne!

ME:-

Talk to someone with experience in the sort of career you're interested in. Preferably 50 years experience. Preferably someone who has been down the path that you are about to navigate. The person doesn't have to have a doctorate but they need a wealth of experience to draw on. I know some people would say pray over - it, but man has a bit of a bad opinion on that these days! You are allowed to have your own private counsel, An Angel of God - in fact you already do!

AI:-

Understanding Uncertainty in Career Choices

When faced with uncertainty about your future career, especially when considering fields like Medicine or interests such as traveling, it is essential to approach the situation methodically. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this uncertainty:

1. Self-Assessment

Begin by conducting a thorough self-assessment. Reflect on your interests, values, skills, and personality traits. Tools such as personality tests (e.g., Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) and interest inventories (e.g., Holland Code) can provide insights into what careers might suit you best. Consider questions like:

What subjects do I enjoy studying?
What activities make me feel fulfilled?
Do I prefer working with people, data, or things?

2. Research Potential Careers

Once you have a clearer understanding of your interests and strengths, research potential career paths that align with them. For Medicine, investigate various specialties (e.g., pediatrics, surgery, psychiatry) and consider the educational requirements for each. For traveling-related careers, explore options such as travel nursing, international business roles, or positions in tourism and hospitality.

3. Seek Guidance

Engage with mentors or career counselors who can provide valuable insights based on their experiences. They can help clarify the realities of different professions and offer advice on how to pursue them effectively. Networking with professionals in fields of interest can also provide firsthand knowledge about day-to-day responsibilities and job satisfaction.

4. Gain Experience

Consider gaining practical experience through internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs related to your areas of interest. For example:

Shadowing a healthcare professional can give you a taste of what working in Medicine entails.
Volunteering for travel-related organizations can expose you to the industry while allowing you to explore your passion for travel.

5. Evaluate Your Options

After gathering information and experiences, evaluate your options critically:

List the pros and cons of pursuing Medicine versus a career that involves traveling.
Consider factors such as job stability, salary expectations, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment.

6. Make an Informed Decision

With all the information at hand, make an informed decision about your career path. Remember that it’s okay to change directions later; many people switch careers multiple times throughout their lives.

7. Stay Flexible

Finally, remain open to new opportunities and experiences that may arise along your journey. The job market is constantly evolving; being adaptable will serve you well regardless of the path you choose.

In conclusion, navigating uncertainty about your future career requires introspection, research, guidance from others, practical experience, critical evaluation of options, informed decision-making, and flexibility in adapting to new circumstances.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:

1. American Psychological Association (APA)
The APA provides resources on career development theories and practices that emphasize self-assessment tools and strategies for making informed career choices.

2. National Career Development Association (NCDA)
The NCDA offers guidelines for effective career counseling practices along with resources for individuals exploring various career paths based on their interests and skills.

3. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides comprehensive data on job outlooks across various professions including detailed descriptions of job duties which are crucial for anyone considering a specific career path like Medicine or travel-related fields.

Probability that the answer is correct: 95%

God Bless!
JC.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for your help Sir and God bless you too. Yvonne
Thank you comment icon PLEASE ASK FOR MORE HELP IF YOU NEED IT! James Constantine Frangos
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Rachel’s Answer

I would try it out. For example, you could be a hospital or clinic volunteer and see what it's really like day-to-day. And there are other less obvious places - for example, a student internship in a research lab or volunteering at a senior center / retirement home.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! Yvonne
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Genesys’s Answer

When I do not know what career I want in the future, I start by writing down my hobbies, my strengths, and my skills. I think about what I enjoy doing and what I am good at. Then, I look for jobs that match these things. I use the internet to find out what people do in these jobs, what tasks they have, and what skills they need. I also think carefully about whether I can do those jobs and if I would like them. This helps me understand more about different careers and find one that fits me well. I apply for jobs that I think I am qualified for. When I feel or see that a job is not right for me, I finish my contract or resign properly so I can change my career until I find the right one. Also, those experiences help me a lot. Now, I have a job that gives me peace and supports my work-life balance, which is important to me to be effective and efficient in the career I want to achieve.
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Tomas’s Answer

Consider taking your time to research and explore different industries, and work while you’re looking into things. Be sure to give yourself a timeline of when you’re gonna start or begin trying new careers, to avoid stagnating. You want to take your time without wasting time. Learn a skill, or a hobby, there are plenty of free things to do.
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Genesys’s Answer

Feeling unsure of your future career is normal. However, the key is to start by self-reflection. Ask yourself about your strengths, interests, values, passion and personality, then start from there. Explore different paths by researching roles, talking to professionals, and trying out real experiences through internships, volunteer work, or short courses. Seek guidance from mentors or other professionals or people you look up to, to gain new perspectives, and don’t pressure yourself to have it all figured out. Focus instead on taking small, intentional steps toward what you want to try next.
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Genesys’s Answer

Think about what you're interested in or what you're naturally good at, then look for small ways to explore, like internships, short courses, or just talking to people in different jobs. You don’t have to figure it all out right away. Every step you take, even if it's not perfect, helps you learn more about what you want and what you don’t. Just keep moving, stay curious, and be open to adjusting as you go.
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Genesys’s Answer

Collect an experience journal. Any time you volunteer, work a part-time job, or talk with someone about their work, make some notes about things you found interesting and exciting while also noting things you would never want to do again. Think back to your childhood—how can you turn the things that you loved to do and play with into adult-level work-as-play tasks?
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Nayra’s Answer

There is no rush for your next step.

You should take the time you need to make sure that the career path you choose is something you will be passionate about. You are off to a great start by asking questions to healthcare professionals here and analyse if that sounds like something you will be happy to do in the near future. But I do think that many people don't really pause before they make this very important decision due to social/family preasure, and may later regret their choice.

It is true that you can always make up your mind, but if you do not rush it you will suceed on choosing something that is right for you from the start. Rather than having to work extra to get to do what you really want later on, like many professionals today. If you are able to travel and work for a bit while you weight your options before you decide, it will allow you to expand your knowledge and make an informed decision later.

Best of luck on your next step!
Thank you comment icon I really appreciate your advice. Thank you so much. Yvonne
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Jerry’s Answer

Yvonne,

Know that at your age uncertainty is, or should be, a given.
For example, I'm 74 years old and when I was 43, an employer looked at my resume and said my career progression didn't make sense to him because it appeared I had worked multiple and seemingly unrelated jobs. In truth, he was right. I had moved from Ohio to Los Angeles to the SF Bay area, which meant new employers. My interests and skills/abilities had changed, not only my geographic location. Truly, only I could link together why the shifts in employment had been made. Bottom line, he hired me in 2003 and I worked for him as an employee and then a contractor for 15 years. So how does this relate to you?

First, we're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology, ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function? Google: what professions will be in demand in ten years

Then substitute job or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.

Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.

Good fortune to you.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, this is really helpful. Yvonne
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Genesys’s Answer

Hi Yvonne ! Guess what ? I am 52 and still unsure about my future career.
🤣🤣
Jokes aside what I do on a regular basis is to reflect upon where I am the happiest: was I smiling? Was I having a good time ? Was i energized? Were there people around me ? Was I alone ? Was I indoor ? Was I outdoors? What was I doing ? Etc… and then I try and uncover what was the exact situation.

This helps me to focus on what I really like doing. Then I explore ways to do more of it. I talk about it to my peers and my family (usually they are your best fans as when you happy they are no ? ).

And then it is about getting closer: start with 20% of your time dedicated to what you like and increase step by step. Secure it and grow 🥹

Happy Thursday !
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Genesys’s Answer

Grab every opportunities that will make you learn. Outside and inside your job. Attend seminars, get a mentor. The goal of these activities is for you to find out which area are you good at or needs improvement on. Once you found out those things, it’ll help you make decisions about your career.
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. The most important is to find out what careers you have more interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. There are many medical and travel related careers, eg doctor, nurse, physiotherapist, pharmacist, psychologist, etc. or travel journalist, travel guide, travel planner, etc. You can find out more medical or travel related careers online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interet
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! Yvonne
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Annah’s Answer

Yvonne, yes! Did you know that there are travel opportunities for some medical and social service-related careers? In the US we have Doctors Beyond Borders and Social Workers Beyond Borders. You can also work as a travel nurse, occupational, or speech therapist. Psychologists may also work in some countries with relative ease as the degree can be transferable. While I am not familiar with Nigeria, you might need to do some extra research to see what opportunities may be available. It may be wise to familiarize yourself with local and national licensing laws; see what types of jobs might include all your interests. We also have flight nurses- medical personnel that literally travel from the hospital to the patient via helicopter. If your career does not allow for travel that is job-related, consider how the salary may allow you to travel when you are not at work. Or even volunteer options where you can bring your medical skillset to a community in need. Get creative and get the knowledge you are looking for before making a big decision. Great luck to you! Here's to many adventures!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much, Annah! Yvonne
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Genesys’s Answer

We can’t always be certain about our future career path, but I believe in continuously improving myself professionally so I’m prepared for whatever challenges may come. I make it a habit to attend online training and refresher courses, and I enjoy learning new things that can support and strengthen my passion. When you stay committed to your growth and keep building your skills, you’ll never go wrong.
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Genesys’s Answer

When you’re unsure about your future career, it’s completely normal — honestly, most people feel this way at some point, even after years in a job. I’ve seen friends and colleagues who thought they had it all figured out, only to realize later that their true passion was in a completely different field.

Having personally experienced this uncertainty and often questioning whether I’m on the right path, I’ve learned that the key is not to freeze because of doubt. Instead, treat it like an experiment. Try out small projects, internships, or even side gigs that spark your curiosity. A friend of mine started volunteering for a community youth organization, teaching out-of-school children simply out of passion and service. A year later, she transitioned into full-time teaching, eventually taking on special assignments to reach students in remote areas — something she never initially planned, but ended up loving. She even pursued additional certifications to fully embrace this new path.

It’s also incredibly helpful to talk to people who’ve explored different careers. I remember having casual coffee chats with friends from industries I knew very little about — and often, those short conversations gave me more perspective than weeks of researching online. You don’t need to figure out your entire career at once; just focus on your next small step. Build versatile skills, stay curious, and trust that clarity often comes after you start moving, not before.
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Genesys’s Answer

When you're not sure about your future career, that’s completely okay. It doesn’t mean you’re lost, it just means you’re still learning about yourself, and that’s a good thing.

Many people don’t know what they want to do right away. They try different things, learn from mistakes, and slowly figure it out. You can do the same.

Try out new hobbies, talk to people about their jobs, and notice what makes you happy or excited. Even small interests can grow into something big.

Don’t worry if others seem to have it all planned. Everyone’s journey is different. Take your time, be kind to yourself, and keep going. You don’t have to have all the answers now. You’re growing, and that’s what matters most.
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Genesys’s Answer

Hey Yvone!

I totally get this feeling - honestly, I felt the same way not too long ago when I was figuring out my path. The uncertainty can be pretty overwhelming, but here's what helped me and what I'd suggest:

Start with experimentation, not perfection - I didn't wake up one day knowing I wanted to be a software engineer. I tried different things - took some coding courses online, built small projects, even shadowed a few professionals. Each experience taught me something about what I liked and didn't like.

Focus on your interests and strengths first- What subjects or activities make you lose track of time? What problems do you find yourself naturally wanting to solve? For me, I realized I loved the puzzle-solving aspect of coding and seeing my ideas come to life through apps and websites.

Talk to people actually doing the work - Platforms like this one are great, but also try reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn or in your community. Most people are surprisingly willing to share their experiences if you ask thoughtfully. I learned way more from 15-minute conversations than from hours of career websites.

Remember that careers aren't linear anymore - I know people who've switched from marketing to tech, from finance to teaching, from engineering to entrepreneurship. Your first choice doesn't lock you in forever.

Take small steps rather than trying to plan everything out - Pick one field that interests you and dive a little deeper - take a course, do an internship, volunteer in that area. The clarity often comes from doing, not just thinking.

The pressure to "figure it all out" is real, but honestly, most of us are still figuring things out as we go. You've got time, and asking questions like this shows you're already on the right track.
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Evelyn’s Answer

What doing you love doing well?
i will advise you write them down precisely.
Find a career and part in health sciences that perform what you love doing in its field.
Thank you comment icon Evelyn, thank you! Yvonne
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Genesys’s Answer

It’s okay if you don’t know what you want to do when you grow up! A lot of people (even grownups) feel that way. The best thing you can do is try different things and see what makes you happy.

Always be true to yourself and be proud of who you are and love yourself. Find a job that makes you excited and happy when you wake up each day. Some people figure this out fast and others it takes a long time and either way - that’s okay!

Keep exploring, meet different people, try new things, and remember you don’t have to have all the answers right now. You’ll find your path when you focus on being you.
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John’s Answer

Yvonne,

When I was in High School, I didn't really have a strong passion either. I played sports, felt like I was a decent student, and had a good social and family structure - but I didn't really know for sure what I wanted to do with my life. Part of the answer is that you might not know the answer. I would recommend spending some time understanding what you do enjoy and then taking very intentional steps to make that passion your career. I have found in my time spent in the workforce that the 4 most important things to me are 1. An enriching career that is challenging and engaging for me mentally 2. A good leader or mentor to help me grow 3. Flexibility with work and life and 4. Financial benefit is really my last measure. However, when I went into college I only prioritized financial success which led me down a path of non success early in my career - bc I made good money, but hated my growth, enrichment and flexibility. Don't be afraid to take time, reflect and maybe try a few things - if you like to cook, go work in a restaurant for a couple weeks and see if you still love it before spending a lot of time/money chasing a career that you THINK you MIGHT like. Hope this helps!
Thank you comment icon Thank you very much Sir. I appreciate your comment and found it really really helpful. Yvonne
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Genesys’s Answer

Great question, Yvonne! Trust me, you are not alone! Not being 100% sure and having doubts about your future career is completely normal -- most of us adults are still having this very same question half of the time.

Here is what I would suggest:

Explore -- Try things out! Internships, online courses, talking with professionals. Think of your career as... say your Spotify playlist. You can listen to a certain song but you do not have to commit -- you can always press next!

Follow Your Passion -- I know this advice may be overused but it is for a reason. What excites you? What makes time fly? That's usually a good clue.

Talk to People -- Reach out to folks in roles you're curious about. Sometimes, hearing the "behind-the-scenes" of certain jobs can be eye-opining and may save you a lot learnings and time!

It's okay to get lost from time to time. Careers are rarely a straight path -- what matters is you learn and adapt in the process. Most of us do not have an answer to the question right now but just keep moving, stay curious, and enjoy your future career journey!
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Genesys’s Answer

When you are not sure about When you are not sure about your future career.. take a step back, inhale and exhale and relax. This is perfectly normal and everyone got to experience this too.

Take time to reflect on yourself. Your strengths, what you are good at, what you enjoy doing and what you want to do. Take notes on this and this will help a lot in deciding in the end. Talk to people you look up to so you can have an idea of what they do.

When you are ready, take a few minutes to look at your journal and you will be surprised at what you can discover.
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Genesys’s Answer

Due to financial reasons and lack of direction on my part, I did not immediately go to college after higschool. I started working in the service industry. This experience helped fuel my motivations to choose and finish an Engineering degree.

So if you can (while you still can) afford to do so, stop and take in more experiences to make a more informed decision on what direction you want to travel.
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