4 answers
Angel
Student
Deltona, Florida
1
Question
Updated
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What factors are most important to consider when deciding on a career path?
I am currently a first-year college student who has recently switched into the chemistry program at my university. I am certain now that I would like to pursue a career in chemistry as it is a subject I am confident in and enjoy, however I am unsure of what career path would be suit me as well as how to gain experience that will help me make this decision.
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4 answers
Kathy Dukes
HR Systems Analyst
1
Answer
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Kathy’s Answer
It's great that you've come this far, and chemistry is a great field with lots of opportunity. Everything you've done sounds great. You've found something you love and feel good about, and that's really important. Learning is a journey that lasts a lifetime and, for me, the key is to keep learning and growing. There won't just be one thing to focus on; there will be many, and you'll build your own unique skills and experiences. As you explore your options, try to stay balanced and pay attention to what you enjoy and what catches your interest.
Look for a combination of what's available to you to explore nearby but also add in some more remote opportunities. Ideas include:
1. Check out your university's website. It lists your professors and what they specialize in. Find topics that interest you. You could take a class in that area or ask the professor questions. Talking with them might help you decide if you want to take their class or try something else. You can also ask about their career paths.
2. There might be internships nearby that you can apply for. The career center can help with this, so spend some time there to see what's available.
3. Check to see if there are job opportunities in your field at your current school. These can be rare and depend on the school, but if you find one, it's a great way to gain experience while you're still in school. There may be opportunities as a lab or teaching assistant.
4. If you're interested, look for Research Experience for Undergraduates (REUs).
5. As you near the end of your degree, you'll need to decide if you want to keep studying for another degree or start working. For me and my family, this choice was natural because it depended on whether we wanted to keep learning in a university setting. If you choose to work, you'll still be learning, but it will be within the industry.
Look for a combination of what's available to you to explore nearby but also add in some more remote opportunities. Ideas include:
1. Check out your university's website. It lists your professors and what they specialize in. Find topics that interest you. You could take a class in that area or ask the professor questions. Talking with them might help you decide if you want to take their class or try something else. You can also ask about their career paths.
2. There might be internships nearby that you can apply for. The career center can help with this, so spend some time there to see what's available.
3. Check to see if there are job opportunities in your field at your current school. These can be rare and depend on the school, but if you find one, it's a great way to gain experience while you're still in school. There may be opportunities as a lab or teaching assistant.
4. If you're interested, look for Research Experience for Undergraduates (REUs).
5. As you near the end of your degree, you'll need to decide if you want to keep studying for another degree or start working. For me and my family, this choice was natural because it depended on whether we wanted to keep learning in a university setting. If you choose to work, you'll still be learning, but it will be within the industry.
Jimmy Bell, CPCN
Nutritionist
23
Answers
Napa, California
Updated
Jimmy’s Answer
It's great that you chose to study chemistry because it's a part of everything we do in life. From food and buildings to medicine, chemistry is everywhere. In your studies, try taking some different science classes to challenge yourself and think creatively. You might find it helpful to take a few classes in physics or astronomy, or something like that.
LANA SOLEIMANPOUR
bookkeeping
3
Answers
Fresno, California
Updated
LANA’s Answer
Figure out what you love doing, what you're good at, and what you want to achieve in your career. Think about the kind of job that excites you. Trying out part-time jobs or internships can be a great way to learn and grow.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2072
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you have interest in chemistry.
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many chemistry related careers, e.g. biochemistry engineer, pharmacist, chemistry laboratory technical, chemistry teacher, forensic chemist, environmental scientist, etc. You can find out more chemistry related careers online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to the alumni who are working in the relevant careers. Seek guidance from the professors, your mentor, college career counsellor, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Attend the relevant subject in college and explore any intern opportunities
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many chemistry related careers, e.g. biochemistry engineer, pharmacist, chemistry laboratory technical, chemistry teacher, forensic chemist, environmental scientist, etc. You can find out more chemistry related careers online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to the alumni who are working in the relevant careers. Seek guidance from the professors, your mentor, college career counsellor, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Attend the relevant subject in college and explore any intern opportunities
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!