5 answers
Faith
Student
Ukiah, California
1
Question
Asked
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How to navigate the career field and find your passion?
Currently I am a woman in her early 20's working fulltime and loving my job; however, its unstable and as such I am changing direction. I plan on going into the IT field, which is quite different from my current position.
My biggest concern is balancing the work load in college and finding joy in my new field. So if there is someone out there who loves their job please include how you found that job and generally what you find fulfilling about it. If you are specifically in IT please include what a typical day looks like for you.
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5 answers
Ruth Wong
Program Management
2
Answers
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Updated
Ruth’s Answer
Hello Faith! You've got a lovely name that from your question, it seems like you'll have to live up to your name, eh? :) I think going into IT, something very different from what you're familiar with, isn't all that bad since the world now revolves a lot around technology. The IT industry is huge, so depending on your interest, you'll have to decide on which areas of IT you'll want to pursue in your studies. Personally, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Software Engineering). I got into the course as it was allocated to me by the government after I completed the government school exam that's equivalent to the international A-levels. Honestly, I'm not good with statistics, additional Mathematics & anything technology back then as I didn't even have my own laptop/PC with internet connection! 20+ years down the road, here I am, still in the tech industry, but I'm doing more towards Test Management & Project Management, even upon graduation.
I would say that there is some weight in what course you want to study as studying something either "irrelevant to present times" or "difficult to get a job in your country for that industry" (like if we study creative arts in Malaysia, it can be VERY challenging to get a job here) could land you in a more difficult situation upon completing your course. Having said that, when it comes to interest & passion, sometimes, these are areas we have to develop over time. In my case, because I didn't really have much of a choice since I was allocated the course by the government (and I didn't have much finances to study privately elsewhere), I had to stick to the Software Engineering course, which I had zero interest & passion. Despite that, I graduated with a first class, thanks to friends whom I got to meet during the course, who are positive influences. Entering a college/uni course sometimes it's not just about completing the course itself, but also to experience student life (people we get to meet & work with, challenges we get to face & overcome, character we get to develop & build).
I dare say that because after graduating, tech industry is the only thing I know, I ended up in the tech industry 'til now! I've been with HP for 14+ years already (this is my 2nd company) & yes, my typical day is actually long, but I've learned to embrace & enjoy it. I may not be fully enjoying the literal work that I do, but I like working with people in projects (I'm a project manager), I like the company culture & I enjoy the network of colleagues across the globe whom I got to work with & become friends with as well. I feel that passion in wanting to improve in what I do & to journey with others are what keeps me grounded & contented :) As mentioned that my typical day is long, meaning because I work with a global team & I'm based in Asia Pacific, my typical day starts around lunch time & I log off by my midnight. For those in the US, they do start their day as early as 5am & some can even end their day around 10pm. Not everyone in the tech industry has such work hours, but generally, in whatever job you do, you'll probably need to work hard in the earlier days & eventually work smart once you pick up the skills.
All the best, Faith!
I would say that there is some weight in what course you want to study as studying something either "irrelevant to present times" or "difficult to get a job in your country for that industry" (like if we study creative arts in Malaysia, it can be VERY challenging to get a job here) could land you in a more difficult situation upon completing your course. Having said that, when it comes to interest & passion, sometimes, these are areas we have to develop over time. In my case, because I didn't really have much of a choice since I was allocated the course by the government (and I didn't have much finances to study privately elsewhere), I had to stick to the Software Engineering course, which I had zero interest & passion. Despite that, I graduated with a first class, thanks to friends whom I got to meet during the course, who are positive influences. Entering a college/uni course sometimes it's not just about completing the course itself, but also to experience student life (people we get to meet & work with, challenges we get to face & overcome, character we get to develop & build).
I dare say that because after graduating, tech industry is the only thing I know, I ended up in the tech industry 'til now! I've been with HP for 14+ years already (this is my 2nd company) & yes, my typical day is actually long, but I've learned to embrace & enjoy it. I may not be fully enjoying the literal work that I do, but I like working with people in projects (I'm a project manager), I like the company culture & I enjoy the network of colleagues across the globe whom I got to work with & become friends with as well. I feel that passion in wanting to improve in what I do & to journey with others are what keeps me grounded & contented :) As mentioned that my typical day is long, meaning because I work with a global team & I'm based in Asia Pacific, my typical day starts around lunch time & I log off by my midnight. For those in the US, they do start their day as early as 5am & some can even end their day around 10pm. Not everyone in the tech industry has such work hours, but generally, in whatever job you do, you'll probably need to work hard in the earlier days & eventually work smart once you pick up the skills.
All the best, Faith!
David Rousseau
Senior Director, Engineering
6
Answers
Cedar, Michigan
Updated
David’s Answer
For me it's about solving problems. In IT, stability can be difficult, especially when you are first starting off so focus on gaining experience and skills and be open to opportunities. I've been in IT for over 20 years and my days are spent working with software engineers and product managers to solve business problems. Many do span days, weeks or even months so there can be a tendency to work late into the night if you're not careful. Focus on setting daily goals and know that you're in it for the long haul.
Rebecca Chandler
2
Answers
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
For me, I find joy in knowing that I contribute to the overall success and advancement of my team and the organization. When you feel a sense of accomplishment, you feel valued, and that will help you find joy in your work. So, look for ways to use your talent and time that is most beneficial to the overall goals of your group or role.
I always suggest that newcomers look for opportunities to "lurk and learn" on projects or calls so they can get a sense of how others work and learn from them. You gain knowledge and become a better contributor as you expand your vision - and your network.
There are a lot of free training and certification resources - particularly in the area of AI, so dig in. Natural curiosity will help you in your educational pursuits.
I always suggest that newcomers look for opportunities to "lurk and learn" on projects or calls so they can get a sense of how others work and learn from them. You gain knowledge and become a better contributor as you expand your vision - and your network.
There are a lot of free training and certification resources - particularly in the area of AI, so dig in. Natural curiosity will help you in your educational pursuits.
Gisele Spolador Lopes
Marketing
3
Answers
Rio de Janeiro, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Updated
Gisele’s Answer
Hello, Faith! I have been working in the past 18 years with no stability - I was in banking in 2008, you probably know the end of that story, after that entered 2 companies that after some years filled for bankruptcy. So I am learning to accept the chaos and just do my best to build a good CV and show my value. About finding joy at work, I understood what is important to me in the end and how to pursue that instead of focusing on titles and industries. For example, it is important to me to admire my leaders and feel I can learn from them. The awareness that I have a lot to learn and space to grow gives me joy. The other thing is my team. I love my team - it doesn't mean there is no attrition ever, but we work well together. Knowing I will spend most of my time surrounded by people I like also gives me joy. The last one is the feeling I can contribute to the company and my work is important. I already said that my team is great, but knowing that everything I do has a purpose and will be used, that I am not just doing random tasks for the sake of being busy is great. Again, it is not only flowers, I have to do some things that are really boring, long hours and operational activities that I feel no pleasure, but I know they are important and this is helpful for the team I love. Hope you discover what you really care about and that leads you to joy at work.
Salsabil Kouskoussi
14
Answers
Updated
Salsabil’s Answer
Hello Faith!
I’ve been there! Changing directions, balancing a full-time job, and wondering if the next chapter will bring both security and joy. Right now, I work in People Engagement & Communications, and what keeps me going is the purpose behind the work: helping people feel seen, connected, and empowered in their everyday work lives. That’s what brings me the most fulfillment, when something I helped shape lifts someone’s day or brings a team closer.
While I’m not in IT specifically, I’ve worked closely with tech support teams and have a background in customer and technical support. One thing I’ve seen in IT, especially roles like support or system administration, is that it’s very dynamic. No two days are exactly alike. You might start with a plan for the day, but then a system alert or user issue shifts your priorities. If you enjoy solving puzzles and helping people, IT can be a deeply satisfying field.
Here’s how I navigated my own career shift:
I paid attention to what energizes me at work. For me, it was creating, connecting people, and helping things run smoothly.
I said yes to side projects that aligned with that (even when they weren’t part of my role yet).
I kept learning, but not all at once. One course or skill at a time can go a long way.
For balancing college and work, here’s what helped me:
Make space for mini “wins”, like completing one module or solving one challenge per week.
Remind yourself that transitions take time. Doubt and discomfort don’t mean you’re on the wrong path; they mean you’re growing.
Surround yourself with people who believe in your potential, even when you’re still figuring things out.
You’re already doing something brave by changing paths. IT needs passionate, curious people like you. You’ve got this.
I’ve been there! Changing directions, balancing a full-time job, and wondering if the next chapter will bring both security and joy. Right now, I work in People Engagement & Communications, and what keeps me going is the purpose behind the work: helping people feel seen, connected, and empowered in their everyday work lives. That’s what brings me the most fulfillment, when something I helped shape lifts someone’s day or brings a team closer.
While I’m not in IT specifically, I’ve worked closely with tech support teams and have a background in customer and technical support. One thing I’ve seen in IT, especially roles like support or system administration, is that it’s very dynamic. No two days are exactly alike. You might start with a plan for the day, but then a system alert or user issue shifts your priorities. If you enjoy solving puzzles and helping people, IT can be a deeply satisfying field.
Here’s how I navigated my own career shift:
I paid attention to what energizes me at work. For me, it was creating, connecting people, and helping things run smoothly.
I said yes to side projects that aligned with that (even when they weren’t part of my role yet).
I kept learning, but not all at once. One course or skill at a time can go a long way.
For balancing college and work, here’s what helped me:
Make space for mini “wins”, like completing one module or solving one challenge per week.
Remind yourself that transitions take time. Doubt and discomfort don’t mean you’re on the wrong path; they mean you’re growing.
Surround yourself with people who believe in your potential, even when you’re still figuring things out.
You’re already doing something brave by changing paths. IT needs passionate, curious people like you. You’ve got this.