10 answers
Salem
Student
East Point, Georgia
1
Question
Asked
3787 views
How do I really know what I want to do with my life?
How do I really know what I want to do with my life? It's just so hard to narrow it down right now. I'm considering majoring in journalism or communications, but I can't see myself writing life-changing stories right now. I'm a incoming high school senior, just for reference.
9 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1060
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
It is normal, for a person coming into their senior year of high school, to determine what they are going to major in, when they get to college. But, you do have some time to try various college classes, see what you like, and then make a decision. It is normally in the first two years of college, that you will be taking General University Requirements (GUR), which will include a variety of courses in the social sciences, natural sciences, humanities, mathematics, and electives, before you finally declare a major in your junior year of college.
If you want to try a general major, which can be utilized in a variety of careers, then Communications might be the way to choose. I have seen Communications majors work in business fields, technology, education and teaching, public relations, transportation services, and web design.
I might also experiment with your writing skills. Writing is a particular skill, that can be utilized in many areas, at both the high school and college levels. If your high school has a student paper, I might see if I can write for it. Many colleges have a student newspaper of web information, that is controlled by Student Services, so this might be another opportunity that you can utilize, when you reach the college level.
Student Services also controls public information, which is issued to the faculty, staff, and student populations at the college level, so they are always looking for good writers to work for their student information departments. So, the things you can provide with your writing skills can provide information, which could help others to find the resources they need, in order to achieve success. So, these might be future options for you to consider. In the meantime, I would encourage you to keep developing your writing skills, they will become very useful in the future, especially in your future college or university classes and major.
If you want to try a general major, which can be utilized in a variety of careers, then Communications might be the way to choose. I have seen Communications majors work in business fields, technology, education and teaching, public relations, transportation services, and web design.
I might also experiment with your writing skills. Writing is a particular skill, that can be utilized in many areas, at both the high school and college levels. If your high school has a student paper, I might see if I can write for it. Many colleges have a student newspaper of web information, that is controlled by Student Services, so this might be another opportunity that you can utilize, when you reach the college level.
Student Services also controls public information, which is issued to the faculty, staff, and student populations at the college level, so they are always looking for good writers to work for their student information departments. So, the things you can provide with your writing skills can provide information, which could help others to find the resources they need, in order to achieve success. So, these might be future options for you to consider. In the meantime, I would encourage you to keep developing your writing skills, they will become very useful in the future, especially in your future college or university classes and major.
Pedro Javier Paneca Cordova
Service Experience Consultant
3
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Pedro Javier’s Answer
It’s completely okay to feel unsure about what you want to do with your life, especially as an incoming high school senior. The truth is, this isn’t a question anyone else can answer for you. Not your teachers, not your parents, not even your closest friends. It’s something you’ll discover through your own experiences, reflections, and growth.
Over time, you’ll gain clarity. You’ll learn what excites you, what challenges you, and what feels meaningful. And if your path changes along the way, that’s perfectly fine. Many people shift directions multiple times before finding what truly fits.
So take the pressure off. Focus on learning, growing, and staying curious. The right path will reveal itself, not all at once, but piece by piece.
Over time, you’ll gain clarity. You’ll learn what excites you, what challenges you, and what feels meaningful. And if your path changes along the way, that’s perfectly fine. Many people shift directions multiple times before finding what truly fits.
So take the pressure off. Focus on learning, growing, and staying curious. The right path will reveal itself, not all at once, but piece by piece.
Experiences are super important to me as a person. They make for good growing opportunities, so I'll just keep moving forward with those. Absolutely agree with the end statement you made, just needed to hear someone with more experience (like yourself) say it.
Salem
Wyatt .
Retired Corporate Executive
54
Answers
United States
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Salem,
I think you’re asking one of the most important and most misunderstood questions there is: How do I really know what I want to do with my life? The truth is, most people don’t “just know.” It’s not a lightning bolt moment for most of us; it’s something you figure out by doing, not just by thinking. Right now, as an incoming senior in high school, this means you’re at the very beginning of discovering who you are, what excites you, and where your strengths really lie. That uncertainty you’re feeling? It’s not a flaw. It’s actually the starting point of self-discovery. Rather than trying to make a perfect choice right now, try thinking in terms of what you’re curious about, and let that guide your early decisions.
Majoring in journalism or communications doesn’t mean you need to be writing award-winning stories today. Those majors open doors to a variety of career paths such as media, public relations, marketing, content strategy, digital storytelling, and even corporate roles. What matters more right now is whether you enjoy learning how to communicate ideas clearly, whether through writing, speaking, or media. Do you like asking questions, connecting with people, or exploring why things are the way they are? If yes, then you’re in the right ballpark. And don’t worry about being “life-changing” right now, just aim to build skills and explore. No 17-year-old is expected to have everything figured out unless they’re superhuman or simply following a path their parents laid out for them, which can feel more robotic than genuine. I know someone who became a doctor because it was what their father had done, only to realize later that it wasn’t truly fulfilling, as their real interests and passions lay outside of medicine. The truth is, even those who seem like they have a clear direction often end up changing course once they gain more life experience and better understand themselves.
The best way to get closer to knowing what you want is to try things out. Take electives in writing, media production, psychology, or even business. Volunteer for your school newspaper or local publication. Intern if you can even if it’s just shadowing someone for a week. Talk to people doing jobs that seem interesting to you. Your goal right now isn’t to choose one path forever, it’s to learn what energizes you, what drains you, and what skills you naturally want to get better at. Give yourself permission to evolve. You don’t have to see the whole staircase to take the first step.
Best wishes,
Wyatt
I think you’re asking one of the most important and most misunderstood questions there is: How do I really know what I want to do with my life? The truth is, most people don’t “just know.” It’s not a lightning bolt moment for most of us; it’s something you figure out by doing, not just by thinking. Right now, as an incoming senior in high school, this means you’re at the very beginning of discovering who you are, what excites you, and where your strengths really lie. That uncertainty you’re feeling? It’s not a flaw. It’s actually the starting point of self-discovery. Rather than trying to make a perfect choice right now, try thinking in terms of what you’re curious about, and let that guide your early decisions.
Majoring in journalism or communications doesn’t mean you need to be writing award-winning stories today. Those majors open doors to a variety of career paths such as media, public relations, marketing, content strategy, digital storytelling, and even corporate roles. What matters more right now is whether you enjoy learning how to communicate ideas clearly, whether through writing, speaking, or media. Do you like asking questions, connecting with people, or exploring why things are the way they are? If yes, then you’re in the right ballpark. And don’t worry about being “life-changing” right now, just aim to build skills and explore. No 17-year-old is expected to have everything figured out unless they’re superhuman or simply following a path their parents laid out for them, which can feel more robotic than genuine. I know someone who became a doctor because it was what their father had done, only to realize later that it wasn’t truly fulfilling, as their real interests and passions lay outside of medicine. The truth is, even those who seem like they have a clear direction often end up changing course once they gain more life experience and better understand themselves.
The best way to get closer to knowing what you want is to try things out. Take electives in writing, media production, psychology, or even business. Volunteer for your school newspaper or local publication. Intern if you can even if it’s just shadowing someone for a week. Talk to people doing jobs that seem interesting to you. Your goal right now isn’t to choose one path forever, it’s to learn what energizes you, what drains you, and what skills you naturally want to get better at. Give yourself permission to evolve. You don’t have to see the whole staircase to take the first step.
Best wishes,
Wyatt
Thank you so much for the advice, Wyatt. I agree about doing, as opposed to thinking. I've always been the strongest in the latter, so it's been hard for me to put ideas into action lately.
Salem
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Salem! Yes, that is the most common feeling expressed by young people, what career will I do? It is a process of narrowing down all the options. There are clues. Historically children followed in their parent's footsteps in the family business. Selling wine in Bordeaux, tomatoes in Milan, galaktoboureko in Athens, fish in Singapore, coconuts in Fiji. We inherit talents for professions from our ancestors. There are psychological personality profile tests that elucidate what type of work a person would be suitable for. One is the Myers-Briggs test. We select a job, we should not have to adjust to an overly unsuitable employment.
In journalism or communications, you could be a writer or columnist, or author, or perhaps an editor.
Nutrition can get you a GPA = 5
That will get you into Harvard
Do a Doctorate
Wage ~ USD $500,000 PA
In journalism or communications, you could be a writer or columnist, or author, or perhaps an editor.
Nutrition can get you a GPA = 5
That will get you into Harvard
Do a Doctorate
Wage ~ USD $500,000 PA
James, I really appreciate the nutrition help. I agree with your points about professions.
Salem
The MAGA and MAHA programs are about empowering People Salem. Make the Whole World Great Again!
James Constantine Frangos
WHAT WOULD BE REAL GOOD FOR YOU WOULD BE A GPA = 5.0 ---------------> HARVARD
James Constantine Frangos
Emily Anne
Manager, Technical Support
25
Answers
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
Emily’s Answer
First off, you’re definitely not alone in feeling this way—figuring out what you want to do with your life is a huge question, and honestly, most people are still working on it well even into adulthood. The pressure to have it all figured out by the end of high school is real, but it’s also kind of unrealistic. So, take a breath—you’re right where you need to be.
How do you really know what you want to do?
-The truth is, you probably won’t have a lightning-bolt moment where everything becomes clear. For most people, it’s a process of trying things, seeing what feels right, and letting your interests evolve. My interests evolve overtime too!! Here are a few things that might help:
1. Explore, Don’t Decide
-Think of college (and even the years after) as a time to explore, not just to lock yourself into one path. You can start with journalism or communications, but you’ll have the chance to take electives, join clubs, and maybe even switch majors if something else grabs you.
2. Follow Your Curiosity
-What are you naturally drawn to? Not just in school, but in life in general—what do you find yourself reading about, watching, or talking about? Sometimes your interests are already pointing you in a direction, even if it’s not obvious yet.
3. Try Stuff Out
-If you’re considering journalism or communications, see if you can get involved with your school newspaper, yearbook, or a local publication. Or maybe try a summer program, internship, or even just start a blog or podcast. Real-world experience is the best way to figure out what you actually enjoy.
4. Don’t Worry About Being “Life-Changing”
-You don’t have to write Pulitzer-winning stories or Nobel prize articles to be a journalist or communicator. There are so many ways to use those skills—marketing, PR, social media, content creation, corporate communications, and more. The field is broad, and you can find your own niche.
5. Talk to People
-Reach out to people who work in fields you’re interested in. Ask them what they like, what they don’t, and how they got started. Most people are happy to share their stories, and it can give you a more realistic picture of what different jobs are actually like.
6. Give Yourself Permission to Change
-Your first choice doesn’t have to be your forever choice. Lots of people change majors, careers, and even entire life directions. It’s all part of the process. I wanted to be a cardiologist when I was young, then became sports newcaster so I took mass communication major in broadcasting, but I find myself now in customer support and management but doing life, professional and mental coaching on the side. Crazy how life turns out!
So, how do you know what you want to do? You don’t have to know right now. Focus on what interests you, try things out, and stay open to change. The path will get clearer as you go. Good luck!
How do you really know what you want to do?
-The truth is, you probably won’t have a lightning-bolt moment where everything becomes clear. For most people, it’s a process of trying things, seeing what feels right, and letting your interests evolve. My interests evolve overtime too!! Here are a few things that might help:
1. Explore, Don’t Decide
-Think of college (and even the years after) as a time to explore, not just to lock yourself into one path. You can start with journalism or communications, but you’ll have the chance to take electives, join clubs, and maybe even switch majors if something else grabs you.
2. Follow Your Curiosity
-What are you naturally drawn to? Not just in school, but in life in general—what do you find yourself reading about, watching, or talking about? Sometimes your interests are already pointing you in a direction, even if it’s not obvious yet.
3. Try Stuff Out
-If you’re considering journalism or communications, see if you can get involved with your school newspaper, yearbook, or a local publication. Or maybe try a summer program, internship, or even just start a blog or podcast. Real-world experience is the best way to figure out what you actually enjoy.
4. Don’t Worry About Being “Life-Changing”
-You don’t have to write Pulitzer-winning stories or Nobel prize articles to be a journalist or communicator. There are so many ways to use those skills—marketing, PR, social media, content creation, corporate communications, and more. The field is broad, and you can find your own niche.
5. Talk to People
-Reach out to people who work in fields you’re interested in. Ask them what they like, what they don’t, and how they got started. Most people are happy to share their stories, and it can give you a more realistic picture of what different jobs are actually like.
6. Give Yourself Permission to Change
-Your first choice doesn’t have to be your forever choice. Lots of people change majors, careers, and even entire life directions. It’s all part of the process. I wanted to be a cardiologist when I was young, then became sports newcaster so I took mass communication major in broadcasting, but I find myself now in customer support and management but doing life, professional and mental coaching on the side. Crazy how life turns out!
So, how do you know what you want to do? You don’t have to know right now. Focus on what interests you, try things out, and stay open to change. The path will get clearer as you go. Good luck!
Exploring my interests is something I've been doing, and I'll keep trying out programs as I head into my senior year and beyond. The advice is greatly appreciated!
Salem
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2430
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you have interest in journalism and communication.
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many careers related to these 2 areas: Journalist, Media content creator, translator, novel author, public communication, public relationship, marketing, event organizer, etc. You can find out more related careers online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many careers related to these 2 areas: Journalist, Media content creator, translator, novel author, public communication, public relationship, marketing, event organizer, etc. You can find out more related careers online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
A mentor for me is probably what I should be looking for. I've worked with professionals in the field so far, but nothing has quite sticked yet. I'll keep looking, however. Thanks for the advice.
Salem
Rebecca, do you have any advice on someone can go about finding a mentor?
Gurpreet Lally, Admin
Mentor can be someone who can inspire you and share their experience with you. Your mentor can be your teacher, relatives, seniors , etc. You may need to have in depth discussion with the person who you would like him/her to be your mentor to:
1. The value is align with your
2. He/she is willing to be your mentor
3. He/she can inspire you and give your the guidance.
Hope this helps!
Rebecca Tang
Anjana Ganjiguntae
Leader in Client Success Management
3
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Anjana’s Answer
Hi Salem,
Thanks for your question! You're definitely not alone in facing this challenge. It's great that you're interested in communication and journalism, which shows you have a direction in mind—you're already on the right track!
Here are some suggestions for you:
- Consider taking an AP course in English or Writing during your senior year to see if it fuels your passion. If that's not possible, look into community college or online courses.
- Try volunteering or finding a job in related fields. Handshake is a great site for discovering opportunities.
- Join your school's debate team, public speaking club, or newspaper club to gain experience.
- If you prefer working on your own, start a blog to practice writing small stories regularly.
Remember, you don't need to start with life-changing stories. What's important is to enjoy the journey as you explore your passion.
Thanks for your question! You're definitely not alone in facing this challenge. It's great that you're interested in communication and journalism, which shows you have a direction in mind—you're already on the right track!
Here are some suggestions for you:
- Consider taking an AP course in English or Writing during your senior year to see if it fuels your passion. If that's not possible, look into community college or online courses.
- Try volunteering or finding a job in related fields. Handshake is a great site for discovering opportunities.
- Join your school's debate team, public speaking club, or newspaper club to gain experience.
- If you prefer working on your own, start a blog to practice writing small stories regularly.
Remember, you don't need to start with life-changing stories. What's important is to enjoy the journey as you explore your passion.
Handshake is a resource I've heard of before, so I'll definitely have to check it out. I've had some experience writing stories for my school and passion projects, and I intend to keep doing that in the future.
Salem
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
833
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I know it feels like you have to have everything figured out right now, but I use the end of my high school and the first two years of college to explore different electives while trying to figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up.
There are truly careers that exist now that did not exist when I was going through school which is kind of exciting. I would recommend joining clubs and going to career fairs to truly immerse yourself and the possibilities that exist.
I promise you have time.
There are truly careers that exist now that did not exist when I was going through school which is kind of exciting. I would recommend joining clubs and going to career fairs to truly immerse yourself and the possibilities that exist.
I promise you have time.
Noted. I will certainly make the most out of my upcoming dual enrollment experience at Georgia State, as I plan to pursue an undergrad degree post high-school.
Salem
Emre Şener, PMP
Technical Program Manager
3
Answers
Dublin, County Dublin
Updated
Emre’s Answer
I'm glad you asked this question! I remember wishing I had some guidance when I was choosing my university major, graduating, or starting my career. There are some great answers here already.
I want to share something practical that I learned later in my career and wish I knew earlier: the importance of soft skills and transferable skills.
Soft skills are qualities that help you work well with others, like being able to communicate, work in a team, and adapt to new situations. Here are some examples:
- Communication: Sharing your ideas clearly when speaking or writing.
- Teamwork: Working well with others.
- Adaptability: Being able to handle new challenges.
- Time Management: Organizing tasks and meeting deadlines.
- Problem-Solving: Finding solutions to problems.
Transferable skills are abilities you can use in different jobs or fields, like managing projects or analyzing data. Here are some examples:
- Project Coordination: Organizing tasks and timelines, like managing a group project.
- Customer Service: Helping people with questions or complaints, like in retail or hospitality.
- Research & Analysis: Collecting and understanding information, like for a school assignment.
- Digital Literacy: Using tools like Excel or PowerPoint.
- Leadership: Leading a team or taking charge, like in student clubs or sports.
It's great to explore different jobs and experiences, as many have suggested. Just remember, as you do, you're building your soft and transferable skills. Over time, these skills can be more valuable than technical ones when you want to switch careers. Knowing your skills can boost your confidence, just like it did for me, and make any career change feel less daunting. I've seen many friends, family, and colleagues successfully switch to entirely different fields.
I hope this gives you a new perspective!
I want to share something practical that I learned later in my career and wish I knew earlier: the importance of soft skills and transferable skills.
Soft skills are qualities that help you work well with others, like being able to communicate, work in a team, and adapt to new situations. Here are some examples:
- Communication: Sharing your ideas clearly when speaking or writing.
- Teamwork: Working well with others.
- Adaptability: Being able to handle new challenges.
- Time Management: Organizing tasks and meeting deadlines.
- Problem-Solving: Finding solutions to problems.
Transferable skills are abilities you can use in different jobs or fields, like managing projects or analyzing data. Here are some examples:
- Project Coordination: Organizing tasks and timelines, like managing a group project.
- Customer Service: Helping people with questions or complaints, like in retail or hospitality.
- Research & Analysis: Collecting and understanding information, like for a school assignment.
- Digital Literacy: Using tools like Excel or PowerPoint.
- Leadership: Leading a team or taking charge, like in student clubs or sports.
It's great to explore different jobs and experiences, as many have suggested. Just remember, as you do, you're building your soft and transferable skills. Over time, these skills can be more valuable than technical ones when you want to switch careers. Knowing your skills can boost your confidence, just like it did for me, and make any career change feel less daunting. I've seen many friends, family, and colleagues successfully switch to entirely different fields.
I hope this gives you a new perspective!
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