3 answers
Emma
Student
Altoona, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
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How do I know I am going in the right career path?
I am undecided and have been struggling to find a major. When I find something I am interested in, how will I know that's the right path for me?
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3 answers
Miha B
Academic and Career Counselor | Human Resources Specialist | Internal Auditor
30
Answers
Winter Park, Florida
Updated
Miha’s Answer
Hi Emma,
That’s such a great and honest question—and one that many students ask at some point in their journey. It's completely normal to feel unsure, especially when choosing something as important as a career path.
Here are a few things that might help guide you:
Explore What Energizes You: Think about the classes, hobbies, or activities that spark your curiosity or make time fly. If something gives you a sense of purpose or excitement—even if it’s small—that’s worth paying attention to.
Try Things Out: Take advantage of electives, internships, volunteering, or even part-time work in areas you're considering. Real-world experience can give you insight into whether a certain field feels like a good fit.
Reflect on Your Strengths: What do others often say you're good at? What tasks or challenges feel natural to you? Often, our strengths align closely with satisfying career paths.
Talk to People in the Field: Sometimes, a conversation with someone working in a role you're interested in can give you clarity. Don’t be afraid to ask about their path—many people are happy to share their stories.
It’s Okay to Change Paths: Remember, your first choice doesn’t have to be final. Many people pivot to new careers later in life. What matters most is starting somewhere and being open to growth and learning.
That’s such a great and honest question—and one that many students ask at some point in their journey. It's completely normal to feel unsure, especially when choosing something as important as a career path.
Here are a few things that might help guide you:
Explore What Energizes You: Think about the classes, hobbies, or activities that spark your curiosity or make time fly. If something gives you a sense of purpose or excitement—even if it’s small—that’s worth paying attention to.
Try Things Out: Take advantage of electives, internships, volunteering, or even part-time work in areas you're considering. Real-world experience can give you insight into whether a certain field feels like a good fit.
Reflect on Your Strengths: What do others often say you're good at? What tasks or challenges feel natural to you? Often, our strengths align closely with satisfying career paths.
Talk to People in the Field: Sometimes, a conversation with someone working in a role you're interested in can give you clarity. Don’t be afraid to ask about their path—many people are happy to share their stories.
It’s Okay to Change Paths: Remember, your first choice doesn’t have to be final. Many people pivot to new careers later in life. What matters most is starting somewhere and being open to growth and learning.
Tara Johns
Copywriter
21
Answers
Gates, North Carolina
Updated
Tara’s Answer
Look at all of the paths you've considered (and any additional possibilities that arise later on) and try to picture the kind of life you would like to live (in the future), and then ask yourself which of your possible choices will give you that outcome. Which of the majors that you have considered will make it possible for you to have that life you aspire to live a few/many years from now?
Whatever you choose, it should excite you. When you talk about it or think about it, you should feel positive things and look forward to it. You shouldn't feel dread or stress or anything like that.
Making your choice may be a little easier if you remind yourself that nothing is set in stone. This can help relieve any pressure you may be feeling regarding making this decision. If whatever you choose doesn't work out, there's no rule that says you can't move on to something else instead.
List your possible options for a major
Ask yourself what kind of future you'd like to have, the kind of lifestyle you hope to afford, etc.
Determine which of the majors on your list can create that kind of life you've envisioned for yourself
If there is more than one that is a match, keep narrowing it down based on other factors, like if you can afford the education required for that degree, and whatever else may be important to you
Whatever you choose, it should excite you. When you talk about it or think about it, you should feel positive things and look forward to it. You shouldn't feel dread or stress or anything like that.
Making your choice may be a little easier if you remind yourself that nothing is set in stone. This can help relieve any pressure you may be feeling regarding making this decision. If whatever you choose doesn't work out, there's no rule that says you can't move on to something else instead.
Tara recommends the following next steps:
Keirsten Payne, PMP
4
Answers
Updated
Keirsten’s Answer
Experience, experience, experience. While we all think we know what we want to be when we grow up, that may change with experience. Be open to exploring many options and you will land where your skillset, interests, and ambition will align.
Be open. Be curious. Be flexible. And most important be easy on yourself as your explore.
Be open. Be curious. Be flexible. And most important be easy on yourself as your explore.