7 answers
Tahaa
Student
Srinagar
2
Questions
Asked
4392 views
Which career Option should I go for (Space planning/ psychology/ Data analysis)?
I want to move abroad (specifically to uk (or any other European country) / any gulf country or maybe japan). I mean not just move but actually LIVE there , how it should be lived (comfortably)
But for that , I need money. I can't just unrealistically dream of travelling the world on my parents money, they are no billionaires.
Also my parents won't just let me wander around like a vagabond without a specific reason, so career can be my golden ticket . But I am confused with which carrier should I go for, i have narrowed down to 3 possible paths:
Design: interior design/ architecture/ urban planning and landscape architecture (as I am drivin by aesthetic and passion)
Or should I do islamic psychology: as this would feed my soul and would Make me a better human and a muslim (which is the most important thing)
Or should I continue with my cs degree (in which I have the least interest) and go in Data Analysis field to gain financial security .
{ I also like the thought of being a businesswoman but I don't have any specific business in mind. }
And I have to do all this before the topic of my marriage hits which is almost 5 years from now.
Can someone please give me a reality check if I am being unrealistic or a piece of advice that would actually help me in my life!
7 answers
Shay Marshall, MS
Senior Juvenile Probation Officer
9
Answers
Navarre, Florida
Updated
Shay’s Answer
It's truly commendable that you're thinking so strategically about your future and how to live comfortably abroad in places like the UK, Europe, the Gulf, or Japan within the next five years, all on your own terms. That kind of foresight is incredibly valuable. To achieve your goal of financial security and international mobility before marriage, you'll want to prioritize a career with high global demand, good earning potential, and a smoother path to visa sponsorship. While your passion lies with design (interior, urban planning, etc.) and your soul is drawn to Islamic psychology, data analysis, leveraging your existing CS degree, stands out as the most pragmatic and effective choice for your immediate goals. Data analysis offers strong global demand, excellent salaries that support comfortable living and saving, and a significantly higher likelihood of securing the necessary work visas in your target countries within your desired timeframe. While design fields are driven by passion, they often require longer educational paths and extensive portfolios, potentially delaying your move, and psychology, particularly a specialized niche like Islamic psychology, faces substantial hurdles with international licensing, language requirements, and often lower initial earning potential for the kind of comfortable living you envision abroad. Therefore, leaning into data analysis with your CS background is your golden ticket; it provides the most direct and secure route to achieving your financial and international living aspirations, and can even serve as a strong foundation should you decide to pursue your other passions or entrepreneurial ventures later in your career.
Skill Development & Specialization: Identify and actively develop the most in-demand skills within your chosen primary field (Data Analysis is highly recommended for your goals). For your other interests, explore specialized areas or certifications that could complement your main path or serve as a future pursuit.
Portfolio Building: Start creating a tangible portfolio of your work, whether it's data analysis projects, design concepts, or even detailed research papers. This is crucial for showcasing your abilities to potential employers or clients, especially when seeking opportunities abroad.
Strategic Networking: Actively connect with professionals in your fields of interest, particularly those who have successfully moved and worked internationally. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for informational interviews and gaining insights into global career paths and visa sponsorship realities.
Targeted International Research: Deep dive into specific visa requirements, job markets, and cost-of-living comparisons for your top 1-2 target countries (e.g., UK, Japan, UAE) for each potential career path. Understanding these practicalities is essential for a realistic plan.
Mentorship & Guidance: Seek out mentors who are established in your chosen career paths, ideally someone who has experience working internationally. Their advice and connections can be invaluable as you navigate your options and plan your move.
Shay recommends the following next steps:
I was feeling uneasy about this post, but your reply really made me happy. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my question. I’d love to consider your advice.
Tahaa
David Ludwick
CEO
69
Answers
Huntington Beach, California
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Tahaa,
You're in a very real and relatable situation — many ambitious people dream of living abroad comfortably, not just scraping by. And you're smart to link that dream to a solid career path. Let’s break down your three options in terms of passion, purpose, practicality, and path to relocation.
OPTION 1: Design (Interior Design, Architecture, Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture)
Pros
• Strong alignment with your aesthetic passion.
• High demand globally, especially in Europe, Gulf countries, and Japan (urban planning and landscape architecture are taken seriously there).
• Potential for visa sponsorship in countries like the UK, Germany, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Japan.
• You could freelance or build your own practice in the long term (hello, self-sponsored visa routes!).
Cons
• Requires education and certifications in most countries, especially in architecture.
• Takes time to establish financially.
• May require a portfolio, which means putting in creative work upfront before seeing income.
Migration Opportunity
• UK: Needs architects and urban planners (check their shortage occupation list).
• Gulf: High demand in real estate and urban projects (especially in UAE, KSA, and Qatar).
• Germany: Welcomes architects; if you can learn some German, even better.
• Japan: Very design-forward culture; but harder to break into without fluency and credentials.
Design could give you freedom, creativity, and a global ticket — but the journey starts slow and ramps up over time.
OPTION 2: Islamic Psychology
Pros
• Deep alignment with your soul and values.
• Helps you and others, especially within the Muslim community, which is underserved in this area.
• Could combine with coaching, writing, public speaking, or online business.
• Emerging field with global interest.
Cons
• May not lead to financial independence as quickly or directly as tech or design unless you become a specialist or open your own practice.
• Less global demand unless you position yourself niche and smartly.
• Most migration pathways don’t prioritize this role on skilled worker visas.
Migration Opportunity
• Malaysia or Gulf countries (UAE, Qatar) might have more cultural infrastructure for Islamic mental health professionals.
• Could be a remote side hustle if you gain reputation as a thought leader.
• Pairing it with a degree in clinical psychology + Islamic specialization can make you stand out.
This path is deeply fulfilling, but you’ll likely need to pair it with another skill or job if your main goal is to live abroad and be financially independent.
OPTION 3: Data Analysis / Continue with CS Degree
Pros
• Most direct path to money, remote work, and international job offers.
• Data and tech roles are in global demand — UK, EU, Gulf, and Japan all recruit heavily for these roles.
• With experience, you can move into remote or freelance roles, giving you freedom and stability.
• Easy to pair with design or psychology later in life (e.g., UX design, mental health data, smart cities, etc.)
Cons
• You’re not interested in it. That’s a big deal.
• Burnout is possible if you’re doing it just for money with no joy.
• Can feel robotic and draining without alignment to your core interests or purpose.
Migration Opportunity
• Easiest out of the three to get a visa or remote job from.
• Countries like Germany, Netherlands, UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Japan (if you pick up basic Japanese) all hire data professionals.
• Remote-friendly = flexibility in where you live.
This is your most secure route — but you’ll need to find a way to make it personally meaningful, or use it as a stepping stone.
TL;DR ADVICE
Factor Design Islamic Psychology Data Analysis
Passion High High Low
Purpose Medium Very High Low
Pay & Job Access Medium Low High
Migration Potential High Medium Very High
Long-Term Fulfillment High Very High Medium
Your Best Strategy Might Be:
Combine practicality with purpose.
→ Finish the CS degree (to unlock visa and money opportunities).
→ Start building a portfolio in design as a side hustle.
→ Begin learning about Islamic Psychology informally or through certifications (online or part-time).
→ Use your tech income to fund a transition into either design or psychology in the future.
This “tech-for-now, passion-for-later” approach is smart, especially if your end goal is both comfort and meaning abroad.
Action Plan
1. Finish your degree (just get through it, don’t over-identify with it).
2. Learn basic data tools (Excel, SQL, Python, Tableau) and apply to remote internships or jobs.
3. Begin a small design project portfolio (maybe volunteer or help local businesses).
4. Join an online community around Islamic psychology, even just to feed your soul.
5. Set a 3- to 5-year plan: Job → Savings → Visa → Move → Freedom to pivot into design or psychology fully.
If you’d like, I can help you map out a more detailed plan based on where you’re currently studying, what country you’re in, or help you build a skill timeline or portfolio plan.
You're in a very real and relatable situation — many ambitious people dream of living abroad comfortably, not just scraping by. And you're smart to link that dream to a solid career path. Let’s break down your three options in terms of passion, purpose, practicality, and path to relocation.
OPTION 1: Design (Interior Design, Architecture, Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture)
Pros
• Strong alignment with your aesthetic passion.
• High demand globally, especially in Europe, Gulf countries, and Japan (urban planning and landscape architecture are taken seriously there).
• Potential for visa sponsorship in countries like the UK, Germany, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Japan.
• You could freelance or build your own practice in the long term (hello, self-sponsored visa routes!).
Cons
• Requires education and certifications in most countries, especially in architecture.
• Takes time to establish financially.
• May require a portfolio, which means putting in creative work upfront before seeing income.
Migration Opportunity
• UK: Needs architects and urban planners (check their shortage occupation list).
• Gulf: High demand in real estate and urban projects (especially in UAE, KSA, and Qatar).
• Germany: Welcomes architects; if you can learn some German, even better.
• Japan: Very design-forward culture; but harder to break into without fluency and credentials.
Design could give you freedom, creativity, and a global ticket — but the journey starts slow and ramps up over time.
OPTION 2: Islamic Psychology
Pros
• Deep alignment with your soul and values.
• Helps you and others, especially within the Muslim community, which is underserved in this area.
• Could combine with coaching, writing, public speaking, or online business.
• Emerging field with global interest.
Cons
• May not lead to financial independence as quickly or directly as tech or design unless you become a specialist or open your own practice.
• Less global demand unless you position yourself niche and smartly.
• Most migration pathways don’t prioritize this role on skilled worker visas.
Migration Opportunity
• Malaysia or Gulf countries (UAE, Qatar) might have more cultural infrastructure for Islamic mental health professionals.
• Could be a remote side hustle if you gain reputation as a thought leader.
• Pairing it with a degree in clinical psychology + Islamic specialization can make you stand out.
This path is deeply fulfilling, but you’ll likely need to pair it with another skill or job if your main goal is to live abroad and be financially independent.
OPTION 3: Data Analysis / Continue with CS Degree
Pros
• Most direct path to money, remote work, and international job offers.
• Data and tech roles are in global demand — UK, EU, Gulf, and Japan all recruit heavily for these roles.
• With experience, you can move into remote or freelance roles, giving you freedom and stability.
• Easy to pair with design or psychology later in life (e.g., UX design, mental health data, smart cities, etc.)
Cons
• You’re not interested in it. That’s a big deal.
• Burnout is possible if you’re doing it just for money with no joy.
• Can feel robotic and draining without alignment to your core interests or purpose.
Migration Opportunity
• Easiest out of the three to get a visa or remote job from.
• Countries like Germany, Netherlands, UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Japan (if you pick up basic Japanese) all hire data professionals.
• Remote-friendly = flexibility in where you live.
This is your most secure route — but you’ll need to find a way to make it personally meaningful, or use it as a stepping stone.
TL;DR ADVICE
Factor Design Islamic Psychology Data Analysis
Passion High High Low
Purpose Medium Very High Low
Pay & Job Access Medium Low High
Migration Potential High Medium Very High
Long-Term Fulfillment High Very High Medium
Your Best Strategy Might Be:
Combine practicality with purpose.
→ Finish the CS degree (to unlock visa and money opportunities).
→ Start building a portfolio in design as a side hustle.
→ Begin learning about Islamic Psychology informally or through certifications (online or part-time).
→ Use your tech income to fund a transition into either design or psychology in the future.
This “tech-for-now, passion-for-later” approach is smart, especially if your end goal is both comfort and meaning abroad.
Action Plan
1. Finish your degree (just get through it, don’t over-identify with it).
2. Learn basic data tools (Excel, SQL, Python, Tableau) and apply to remote internships or jobs.
3. Begin a small design project portfolio (maybe volunteer or help local businesses).
4. Join an online community around Islamic psychology, even just to feed your soul.
5. Set a 3- to 5-year plan: Job → Savings → Visa → Move → Freedom to pivot into design or psychology fully.
If you’d like, I can help you map out a more detailed plan based on where you’re currently studying, what country you’re in, or help you build a skill timeline or portfolio plan.
Salvador Barragan
Finance Analyst
1
Answer
Pittsford, New York
Updated
Salvador’s Answer
Hi there! Here's a bit about me:
1. I was really good at a sport and even thought about going pro, but I was also good in school. I loved the sport, but it was risky, so I chose to focus on my studies.
2. My career eventually brought me and my family to the US, which turned out to be a great opportunity.
From my experience, it's important to balance what you love with what can support the lifestyle you want. Some careers make it easier to move to different countries. Always ask yourself if you're good at what you're doing. If you're great at data analysis, what's making you question your path?
I have two kids. One studied math and is great at it, though he might have preferred journalism. He's now in finance, enjoying his work and earning well. My other child wanted to save the world but found the work stressful and the pay low. She switched to an MBA, and now her job is more structured, and she's doing better financially.
This shows that if you start with one path, you can always change later if you want to.
1. I was really good at a sport and even thought about going pro, but I was also good in school. I loved the sport, but it was risky, so I chose to focus on my studies.
2. My career eventually brought me and my family to the US, which turned out to be a great opportunity.
From my experience, it's important to balance what you love with what can support the lifestyle you want. Some careers make it easier to move to different countries. Always ask yourself if you're good at what you're doing. If you're great at data analysis, what's making you question your path?
I have two kids. One studied math and is great at it, though he might have preferred journalism. He's now in finance, enjoying his work and earning well. My other child wanted to save the world but found the work stressful and the pay low. She switched to an MBA, and now her job is more structured, and she's doing better financially.
This shows that if you start with one path, you can always change later if you want to.
Steve Basmajian
Designer
15
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Steve’s Answer
It sounds like you've narrowed it down to passion, soul, or money. There's no reason why you can't have more than one. Passion is going to be competitive and it will be hard to generate the income you need at the start. Soul is going to be harder to land a paid job. You'll need more education in that area for it to be economically viable to relocate. Money isn't exciting and you're not passionate about it, but it's your fastest way to get what you want.
My advice would be that you don't have to choose one forever. I've changed and evolved my interests and direction over my career.
If you're looking for the path of least resistance: finish the CS degree, get a job where you want to go, explore your passion or soul opportunities, then find your comfort and purpose. That can all be done in 5 years.
My advice would be that you don't have to choose one forever. I've changed and evolved my interests and direction over my career.
If you're looking for the path of least resistance: finish the CS degree, get a job where you want to go, explore your passion or soul opportunities, then find your comfort and purpose. That can all be done in 5 years.
Enana Ali
Architect
16
Answers
Tartus, Tartus Governorate
Updated
Enana’s Answer
Let me tell you this, Tahaa, you’re not being unrealistic. You’re being awake. Awake to the tension between passion and practicality, between soul and survival, between duty and dreams. And that's a beautiful, powerful place to begin.
You're standing at a crossroad, holding three very different paths in your hands: the aesthetic soul of design, the spiritual fulfillment of Islamic psychology, and the practical, globally viable choice of data analysis. Each one speaks to a different part of who you are and that’s why it feels confusing. But the truth is, this isn't just a choice of career. It's a strategy for how to live your entire life.
You dream of living abroad not just visiting, but really living, building a home where your days are peaceful, your soul is fed, and your bank account isn’t constantly on edge. That’s not too much to ask. But to get there, you know _no sugar coating_ you need money, stability, and a reason to go. That means your career isn’t just a job; it’s your passport.
Now, let's clarify the options:
Design is beautiful, expressive, and yours. If this was just about what makes your heart beat faster, this would be it. But design, especially in interior/urban/landscape architecture, takes time, connections, and usually more education. It’s competitive especially if you're aiming for countries like the UK or Japan. Not impossible just slower. If you go this route, you'll need to hustle hard and be ready for years of building your name.
Islamic Psychology, this is for the soul. It’s deeply needed in the world, and it reflects your values. But in terms of visas, jobs, and financial growth it’s limited, unless paired with other professional credentials (like counseling, academic research, or running your own platform). It may be a beautiful part of your future, but not likely the engine that drives your move abroad.
Data Analysis, even though it's your least favorite, is your most strategic move. It’s in demand in every country you mentioned. It's remote-friendly. It pays well. And it can be the stable foundation from which you launch the rest of your dreams. Think of it like this: it doesn’t have to be your forever career, just your ticket out. Once you have that freedom, you can build your business, explore design, study psychology even combine them.
What you want is freedom. And what gives you freedom is options. Right now, the option most likely to give you that is finishing your CS degree, learning data analysis, and building a strong professional profile. It won’t feed your soul immediately, but it will fund the life that will.
And about your dream of being a businesswoman, don’t worry that you don’t have a business idea yet. Businesses are born from experience + problems you care about. Focus first on getting yourself out into the world. Let life teach you what’s missing and maybe one day, you’ll create a business that combines your aesthetics, your faith, and your skills.
You have 5 years. That’s more than enough time to build a life on your terms rooted in value, not just survival. Start with strategy. Keep your passion burning on the side. And one day, you’ll find they’ve caught up to each other.
You're not lost. You’re building your map.
And your journey has just begun. ✨
You're standing at a crossroad, holding three very different paths in your hands: the aesthetic soul of design, the spiritual fulfillment of Islamic psychology, and the practical, globally viable choice of data analysis. Each one speaks to a different part of who you are and that’s why it feels confusing. But the truth is, this isn't just a choice of career. It's a strategy for how to live your entire life.
You dream of living abroad not just visiting, but really living, building a home where your days are peaceful, your soul is fed, and your bank account isn’t constantly on edge. That’s not too much to ask. But to get there, you know _no sugar coating_ you need money, stability, and a reason to go. That means your career isn’t just a job; it’s your passport.
Now, let's clarify the options:
Design is beautiful, expressive, and yours. If this was just about what makes your heart beat faster, this would be it. But design, especially in interior/urban/landscape architecture, takes time, connections, and usually more education. It’s competitive especially if you're aiming for countries like the UK or Japan. Not impossible just slower. If you go this route, you'll need to hustle hard and be ready for years of building your name.
Islamic Psychology, this is for the soul. It’s deeply needed in the world, and it reflects your values. But in terms of visas, jobs, and financial growth it’s limited, unless paired with other professional credentials (like counseling, academic research, or running your own platform). It may be a beautiful part of your future, but not likely the engine that drives your move abroad.
Data Analysis, even though it's your least favorite, is your most strategic move. It’s in demand in every country you mentioned. It's remote-friendly. It pays well. And it can be the stable foundation from which you launch the rest of your dreams. Think of it like this: it doesn’t have to be your forever career, just your ticket out. Once you have that freedom, you can build your business, explore design, study psychology even combine them.
What you want is freedom. And what gives you freedom is options. Right now, the option most likely to give you that is finishing your CS degree, learning data analysis, and building a strong professional profile. It won’t feed your soul immediately, but it will fund the life that will.
And about your dream of being a businesswoman, don’t worry that you don’t have a business idea yet. Businesses are born from experience + problems you care about. Focus first on getting yourself out into the world. Let life teach you what’s missing and maybe one day, you’ll create a business that combines your aesthetics, your faith, and your skills.
You have 5 years. That’s more than enough time to build a life on your terms rooted in value, not just survival. Start with strategy. Keep your passion burning on the side. And one day, you’ll find they’ve caught up to each other.
You're not lost. You’re building your map.
And your journey has just begun. ✨
Alecia Drenckhahn
3
Answers
Updated
Alecia’s Answer
First, make a list of specific countries where you want to live, like choosing Oman instead of just saying the Gulf Countries. Then, look up the critical career fields in each of those countries. See if any jobs you are passionate about are on those lists. For example, while architectural designer might not be in demand, a *licensed* architect usually is. Being in a high-demand field will make it easier to get a work visa.
Narrow your list of dream countries.
Research quality of life for foreigners living in those countries to narrow your list further (keep only the highest rated; you can visit the others on holiday)
Research critical careers in high demand for the remaining dream countries.
Choose the field that you are interested in that appears on the most countries' critical careers. This will give you more latitude for relocation later if you'd like to experience living in a second country or if the first doesn't meet your expectations.
Alecia recommends the following next steps:
Evita Pereira Alvarado
Business Intelligent Analyst
4
Answers
Heredia, Heredia Province, Costa Rica
Updated
Evita’s Answer
Hi Tahaa!
Choosing a profession is always a big challenge, but it’s also a very important decision. From a personal perspective, I recommend pursuing something you're excellent at and truly passionate about. If you're the best at what you do, it will never feel like work.
But if you make your decision based mainly on money, you might live comfortably — but always feeling like work is a burden.
I work in reporting and data visualization, and I can tell you that if you're not interested from the start, it’s going to be very hard to stay motivated throughout your career — especially when you’ll constantly need to stay up to date.
I believe that dreaming helps us build a future that feels real and within reach, but it’s important that those dreams bring us joy — that way, they’ll never feel like a sacrifice.
Evi
Choosing a profession is always a big challenge, but it’s also a very important decision. From a personal perspective, I recommend pursuing something you're excellent at and truly passionate about. If you're the best at what you do, it will never feel like work.
But if you make your decision based mainly on money, you might live comfortably — but always feeling like work is a burden.
I work in reporting and data visualization, and I can tell you that if you're not interested from the start, it’s going to be very hard to stay motivated throughout your career — especially when you’ll constantly need to stay up to date.
I believe that dreaming helps us build a future that feels real and within reach, but it’s important that those dreams bring us joy — that way, they’ll never feel like a sacrifice.
Evi
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