23 answers
Robiah Thabit
Process Engineer
13
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
3775 views
What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger job-seeking self?
If you could talk to yourself just graduating,
what would you tell yourself about jobs, career, or life after school?
I don't have a job offer yet and this is what I have been telling myself since I graduated, to stop tying my worth to job offers.
That it’s okay to take detours.
That everyone looks put-together online, but most are just figuring things out too.
And most importantly, jobs don’t give you value, you bring value to jobs.
What about you?
Let’s help someone reading this today.
Login to comment
23 answers
Joe L.
Program Manager
120
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Here are some of the most common regrets people express about their careers or approach to earning a living:
Choosing a Career for Money, Not Passion
What they say: “I made good money, but I was never happy.”
Why it happens: Fear of financial insecurity or societal/family pressure pushes people toward "safe" or high-paying jobs.
The regret: Realizing decades later that chasing income over fulfillment left them emotionally empty.
I personally can attest that this is true. I chose a business career over a natural science path and often wonder what would have happened if I did the opposite where my passion was.
Working Too Much and Missing Life
What they say: “I missed my kids growing up,” or “I didn’t take time to enjoy life.”
Why it happens: A culture of hustle and fear of falling behind leads to long hours and few vacations.
The regret: Time is the one currency you can’t earn back. People mourn missing birthdays, anniversaries, travel, and health.
So in summary..balance in life is essential to ultimate happiness. Excess in any aspect often leads to leaving other critical elements out
Not Taking More Risks Early On
What they say: “I wish I had started my own business,” or “I should’ve changed careers when I had the chance.”
Why it happens: Fear of failure or stability keeps people from taking bold steps.
The regret: Realizing that youthful energy and fewer responsibilities could’ve allowed for more experimentation.
Being too risk averse often leads to a person who is too afraid to really live their life how they should
Not Continuously Learning or Evolving
What they say: “I got comfortable and stopped growing.”
Why it happens: Once people settle into a role, they often stop learning new skills or adapting to change.
The regret: Being left behind in a fast-moving world, feeling unfulfilled or obsolete.
Be sure to question where you are as you move along your chosen career path every so often so this doesn't happen to you
Ignoring Personal Values or Ethics
What they say: “I stayed in a toxic environment because I thought I had no choice.”
Why it happens: People tolerate bad bosses, unethical practices, or soul-crushing jobs for the paycheck.
The regret: Compromising integrity or mental health for job security.
Never compromise your core beliefs for any business objective no matter how lucrative.
Not Building Relationships or Networks
What they say: “I didn’t stay in touch with people who mattered.”
Why it happens: Prioritizing tasks over people, or underestimating the value of workplace friendships.
The regret: Losing out on emotional support, opportunities, or collaborative joy.
Goes back the the balanced life being a happy one
Defining Self-Worth by Career
What they say: “When I retired or lost my job, I didn’t know who I was.”
Why it happens: Work becomes the sole identity.
The regret: Discovering too late that life is bigger than a title or role.
Workaholics and those that measure happiness by the size of their paychecks are often unhappy
Delaying Dreams Until Retirement
What they say: “I kept saying ‘someday,’ and someday never came.”
Why it happens: People put off travel, hobbies, or personal goals for a mythical “later.”
The regret: Health issues, financial surprises, or lost time make it impossible to enjoy retirement fully.
Seize the day...remember the Robin Williams (RIP) movie.
In Summary:
Older adults often advise younger generations to balance earning with living, chase meaningful work, and not wait for permission to change course. If you can, ask people nearing retirement about their own regrets—you’ll hear versions of the above repeated again and again.
Choosing a Career for Money, Not Passion
What they say: “I made good money, but I was never happy.”
Why it happens: Fear of financial insecurity or societal/family pressure pushes people toward "safe" or high-paying jobs.
The regret: Realizing decades later that chasing income over fulfillment left them emotionally empty.
I personally can attest that this is true. I chose a business career over a natural science path and often wonder what would have happened if I did the opposite where my passion was.
Working Too Much and Missing Life
What they say: “I missed my kids growing up,” or “I didn’t take time to enjoy life.”
Why it happens: A culture of hustle and fear of falling behind leads to long hours and few vacations.
The regret: Time is the one currency you can’t earn back. People mourn missing birthdays, anniversaries, travel, and health.
So in summary..balance in life is essential to ultimate happiness. Excess in any aspect often leads to leaving other critical elements out
Not Taking More Risks Early On
What they say: “I wish I had started my own business,” or “I should’ve changed careers when I had the chance.”
Why it happens: Fear of failure or stability keeps people from taking bold steps.
The regret: Realizing that youthful energy and fewer responsibilities could’ve allowed for more experimentation.
Being too risk averse often leads to a person who is too afraid to really live their life how they should
Not Continuously Learning or Evolving
What they say: “I got comfortable and stopped growing.”
Why it happens: Once people settle into a role, they often stop learning new skills or adapting to change.
The regret: Being left behind in a fast-moving world, feeling unfulfilled or obsolete.
Be sure to question where you are as you move along your chosen career path every so often so this doesn't happen to you
Ignoring Personal Values or Ethics
What they say: “I stayed in a toxic environment because I thought I had no choice.”
Why it happens: People tolerate bad bosses, unethical practices, or soul-crushing jobs for the paycheck.
The regret: Compromising integrity or mental health for job security.
Never compromise your core beliefs for any business objective no matter how lucrative.
Not Building Relationships or Networks
What they say: “I didn’t stay in touch with people who mattered.”
Why it happens: Prioritizing tasks over people, or underestimating the value of workplace friendships.
The regret: Losing out on emotional support, opportunities, or collaborative joy.
Goes back the the balanced life being a happy one
Defining Self-Worth by Career
What they say: “When I retired or lost my job, I didn’t know who I was.”
Why it happens: Work becomes the sole identity.
The regret: Discovering too late that life is bigger than a title or role.
Workaholics and those that measure happiness by the size of their paychecks are often unhappy
Delaying Dreams Until Retirement
What they say: “I kept saying ‘someday,’ and someday never came.”
Why it happens: People put off travel, hobbies, or personal goals for a mythical “later.”
The regret: Health issues, financial surprises, or lost time make it impossible to enjoy retirement fully.
Seize the day...remember the Robin Williams (RIP) movie.
In Summary:
Older adults often advise younger generations to balance earning with living, chase meaningful work, and not wait for permission to change course. If you can, ask people nearing retirement about their own regrets—you’ll hear versions of the above repeated again and again.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Robiah Thabit
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Rinnah
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Don't feel pressured to have your entire career figured out right away. Your path won't be a straight line, and that's okay.
Instead of looking for a "perfect" job, focus on gaining skills and learning from every experience. The skills you pick up along the way, whether in a formal job or a volunteer position, are what will truly shape your future.
Instead of looking for a "perfect" job, focus on gaining skills and learning from every experience. The skills you pick up along the way, whether in a formal job or a volunteer position, are what will truly shape your future.
Thank you!
Robiah Thabit
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2440
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many young graduates have similar question.
Below are my questions :
1. Look for any intern opportunities of corporates. They may publish these opportunities on their career website or via college career office. You can keep an eye on it.
2. Explore any job opportunities you can work overseas as well. It can broaden your horizon.
3. If there is any corporate you have particular interest, send an email to their HR explaining your intention to seek opportunities with your cv attached
4. Check with the job agents on the opportunities
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my questions :
1. Look for any intern opportunities of corporates. They may publish these opportunities on their career website or via college career office. You can keep an eye on it.
2. Explore any job opportunities you can work overseas as well. It can broaden your horizon.
3. If there is any corporate you have particular interest, send an email to their HR explaining your intention to seek opportunities with your cv attached
4. Check with the job agents on the opportunities
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Navneet Kaur
Business Architecture Analyst
4
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Navneet’s Answer
If I could give one piece of advice to my younger, job-seeking self, it would be this: never walk into an interview feeling pressured or overly stressed. It’s natural to feel nervous, but putting too much pressure on yourself to be ‘perfect’ can actually hold you back. I’ve learned that interviews are as much about mutual fit as they are about qualifications. The more calm and centered you are, the better you can show your real strengths, communicate clearly, and even enjoy the conversation. Preparation is key, of course—but so is mindset. Walk in knowing your value, stay grounded, and treat it like a professional conversation, not a high-stakes test.
Thanks for this, Navneet.
Robiah Thabit
Stephanie Watson Haynes
Talent Acquisition
4
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
Seek to work for a Local, State or Federal agency. All offer retirement programs as well as the ability to move from agency to agency( including working aboard ) with easy. Pay is above average since, government agencies do layoff.
Thank you, Stephanie.
Robiah Thabit
Kaileigh Bible
Supervisor, Customer Service
1
Answer
Redding, California
Updated
Kaileigh’s Answer
Discover what excites you and pursue it with enthusiasm! Be brave and step out of your comfort zone. The more chances you take, the more you will learn and grow. You never know the amazing people you'll meet or the new paths that will unfold for you.
Thank you, Kaileigh.
Robiah Thabit
Sankarraj Subramani
GenAI Opensource Contributor and GenAI Sr. SDET
13
Answers
Sugar Land, Texas
Updated
Sankarraj’s Answer
If I could give one piece of advice to my younger, job-seeking self, it would be this: don’t measure your worth by the speed at which you get an offer—measure it by the skills, values, and resilience you bring to the table.
When I graduated, I thought the “perfect first job” would define me. In reality, my path was full of detours—starting in testing roles, slowly building frameworks, and eventually leading AI-powered QA automation projects for aviation, banking, housing, and healthcare. None of that happened overnight. But each step gave me a foundation to build open-source projects (like AutoTestX and AutoBugPredictX), mentor others, and contribute to national-scale systems.
Looking back, I’d tell myself:
Stay curious—keep learning new tools and certifications, even when the job market feels uncertain.
Share what you learn—open-source contributions, blog posts, or mentoring will build credibility faster than any title.
Trust the process—detours aren’t wasted time; they become stories of adaptability that future employers respect.
And most importantly: jobs don’t define your value—you bring value into jobs. Once I shifted my mindset from chasing titles to creating impact, opportunities began to find me.
When I graduated, I thought the “perfect first job” would define me. In reality, my path was full of detours—starting in testing roles, slowly building frameworks, and eventually leading AI-powered QA automation projects for aviation, banking, housing, and healthcare. None of that happened overnight. But each step gave me a foundation to build open-source projects (like AutoTestX and AutoBugPredictX), mentor others, and contribute to national-scale systems.
Looking back, I’d tell myself:
Stay curious—keep learning new tools and certifications, even when the job market feels uncertain.
Share what you learn—open-source contributions, blog posts, or mentoring will build credibility faster than any title.
Trust the process—detours aren’t wasted time; they become stories of adaptability that future employers respect.
And most importantly: jobs don’t define your value—you bring value into jobs. Once I shifted my mindset from chasing titles to creating impact, opportunities began to find me.
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Robiah!
I did give the advice, and I took it. "Help those in trouble." It was serious business the relatives were dying of familial hypercholesterolemia type IV. Uncle was heterozygous he had two genes for the condition blocking all five coronary arteries with cholesterol. Hence, he died at 38 years of age. Dad was heterozygous which meant that he only carried one gene for the inherited metabolic error. Dad died at 50 years of age.
I had tried to get into high school chemistry in senior, but the teacher refused me. The class was already too crowded. I did not do biology in senior high school either. I achieved a grade point average of 880 out of a possible 990, but I could not get into medicine without chemistry. The Dean of Medicine suggested that I do undergraduate chemistry for a year. I did biological chemistry at another university.
Then the weirdest thing happened. My dear departed uncle's old academic supervisor from another university came to work at our college and starts lecturing in biochemistry.
I ended up doing an undergraduate degree in biological chemistry and forgetting about medicine. I decided to start a Master of Science in Medical Biochemistry at another college. I got their reading list and procured books. I was perusing The Metabolic Basis of Inherited Disease by Wyngarden. That elucidated what happened to my uncle.
I wish I had been born earlier so I could have helped my relatives. I became a dietitian-nutritionist. What killed my family eventuated from genetic propensity and a high saturated meat fat intake with insufficient omega-3 oils and plant foods like olive oil. The Australian diet was deadly in the early 20th century.
One good detour for you would be to start your own remote consultancy, an entrepreneurial venture that answers people's questions for a sum of money. You would need to network to enhance your Internet visibility and get your own website happening.
The easiest work to procure is tutoring, but you could be a researcher for academics, utilizing various search engines like PubMed or LLI [Legal Information Institute].
All The Best,
JC
I did give the advice, and I took it. "Help those in trouble." It was serious business the relatives were dying of familial hypercholesterolemia type IV. Uncle was heterozygous he had two genes for the condition blocking all five coronary arteries with cholesterol. Hence, he died at 38 years of age. Dad was heterozygous which meant that he only carried one gene for the inherited metabolic error. Dad died at 50 years of age.
I had tried to get into high school chemistry in senior, but the teacher refused me. The class was already too crowded. I did not do biology in senior high school either. I achieved a grade point average of 880 out of a possible 990, but I could not get into medicine without chemistry. The Dean of Medicine suggested that I do undergraduate chemistry for a year. I did biological chemistry at another university.
Then the weirdest thing happened. My dear departed uncle's old academic supervisor from another university came to work at our college and starts lecturing in biochemistry.
I ended up doing an undergraduate degree in biological chemistry and forgetting about medicine. I decided to start a Master of Science in Medical Biochemistry at another college. I got their reading list and procured books. I was perusing The Metabolic Basis of Inherited Disease by Wyngarden. That elucidated what happened to my uncle.
I wish I had been born earlier so I could have helped my relatives. I became a dietitian-nutritionist. What killed my family eventuated from genetic propensity and a high saturated meat fat intake with insufficient omega-3 oils and plant foods like olive oil. The Australian diet was deadly in the early 20th century.
One good detour for you would be to start your own remote consultancy, an entrepreneurial venture that answers people's questions for a sum of money. You would need to network to enhance your Internet visibility and get your own website happening.
The easiest work to procure is tutoring, but you could be a researcher for academics, utilizing various search engines like PubMed or LLI [Legal Information Institute].
All The Best,
JC
Thank you, James.
Robiah Thabit
Esther Venmans
Senior Quality director
7
Answers
Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
Updated
Esther’s Answer
If I could talk to my younger self about jobs and careers, I’d say: just start and explore. Don’t wait or aim for the perfect job right away.
You grow over time, your interests and knowledge shift, your company evolves, your colleagues change, and so will your ideal job. That’s why it’s important to keep looking, keep learning, and stay open to new possibilities. What feels right today might not be the same tomorrow.
It’s not just students, most of us never have it fully figured out. We all take detours, often more than once, throughout our careers
and that’s perfectly okay.
--------------
There are learning opportunities everywhere, and as a student, you often don’t realize how many different types of jobs exist. You said it yourself: “It’s the value you bring to a job.” But it’s also about what you learn from a job and what you gain in return.
Some jobs teach you technical skills, while others help you grow in communication, organization, or project management. Nothing is wasted, even if you discover that a certain job isn’t for you. That’s still a valuable lesson.
Just make sure that when your learning curve or interest starts to flatten (especially in a role that doesn’t truly suit you) you begin looking for new opportunities. Exploring within your company can be helpful, as it gives you insight into what other departments do and what skills they require.
When I was younger, I wanted to be a scientist. I studied hard and earned three master’s degrees. But during my PhD, I realized research wasn’t for me. Waiting years to (hopefully) see results didn’t suit my hands-on nature. I found myself organizing lab purchases, documenting procedures, and helping others through coaching and teaching. That’s when I realized: this is what I enjoy more than research.
So I switched to product engineering, but it was still too theoretical. Fortunately, I had visibility into other departments, so I moved into operations as a validation engineer: analyzing processes, improving them, and organizing workflows. That’s when everything clicked. I was adding real value, enjoying the work, and time flew by.
When you love what you do and you’re good at it, you can achieve great things and feel truly satisfied.
The only way to discover what truly fits you is by exploring and staying curious.
You grow over time, your interests and knowledge shift, your company evolves, your colleagues change, and so will your ideal job. That’s why it’s important to keep looking, keep learning, and stay open to new possibilities. What feels right today might not be the same tomorrow.
It’s not just students, most of us never have it fully figured out. We all take detours, often more than once, throughout our careers
and that’s perfectly okay.
--------------
There are learning opportunities everywhere, and as a student, you often don’t realize how many different types of jobs exist. You said it yourself: “It’s the value you bring to a job.” But it’s also about what you learn from a job and what you gain in return.
Some jobs teach you technical skills, while others help you grow in communication, organization, or project management. Nothing is wasted, even if you discover that a certain job isn’t for you. That’s still a valuable lesson.
Just make sure that when your learning curve or interest starts to flatten (especially in a role that doesn’t truly suit you) you begin looking for new opportunities. Exploring within your company can be helpful, as it gives you insight into what other departments do and what skills they require.
When I was younger, I wanted to be a scientist. I studied hard and earned three master’s degrees. But during my PhD, I realized research wasn’t for me. Waiting years to (hopefully) see results didn’t suit my hands-on nature. I found myself organizing lab purchases, documenting procedures, and helping others through coaching and teaching. That’s when I realized: this is what I enjoy more than research.
So I switched to product engineering, but it was still too theoretical. Fortunately, I had visibility into other departments, so I moved into operations as a validation engineer: analyzing processes, improving them, and organizing workflows. That’s when everything clicked. I was adding real value, enjoying the work, and time flew by.
When you love what you do and you’re good at it, you can achieve great things and feel truly satisfied.
The only way to discover what truly fits you is by exploring and staying curious.
Thank you for sharing your story, Esther. I really like how you highlighted the importance of exploring and staying curious.
Robiah Thabit
Malvena Nwakanma, MBA, BA
Payroll Specialist
8
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Malvena’s Answer
Hi Robiah,
I could back I would say, if it interests you, try it. Never be afraid to pivot into another field. Stay open to learning and growth. Also, do not let your peers or family redirect what's in your heart. Lastly, do not make decisions just because of money. Go with what makes you passionate and makes you want to do it every day. Lastly, do not chase after money or careers. Let it come to you; you will know in your gut opportunities are aligned with your destiny and what's not. Once it comes to you, you can proceed with that enthusiasm, and it will be even more successful!
I could back I would say, if it interests you, try it. Never be afraid to pivot into another field. Stay open to learning and growth. Also, do not let your peers or family redirect what's in your heart. Lastly, do not make decisions just because of money. Go with what makes you passionate and makes you want to do it every day. Lastly, do not chase after money or careers. Let it come to you; you will know in your gut opportunities are aligned with your destiny and what's not. Once it comes to you, you can proceed with that enthusiasm, and it will be even more successful!
D'Mauri Rich
Client Communication Specialist
9
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
D'Mauri’s Answer
My main advice for job hunting is to find something that interests you and fits your career goals. Learning on the job is valuable because it can introduce you to new ideas and help you decide if it's a path you want to follow.
That’s true, D’Mauri sometimes just starting with something that sparks your interest makes all the difference. Thanks for pointing that out.
Robiah Thabit
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
835
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
If I could go back, I would tell myself to work more and to build relationships. I was so focused on what I thought. I deserved early in my career, that I didn’t treat some of my supervisors as well as I would’ve liked.
I would also tell myself that there is plenty of time. It seems like everything has to happen “now”, But life really is a marathon.
I would also tell myself that there is plenty of time. It seems like everything has to happen “now”, But life really is a marathon.
True, building relationships sometimes gets overlooked early on. Thanks for pointing that out, Jerome.
Robiah Thabit
Sherry Mancuso
Designer
1
Answer
Florida City, Florida
Updated
Sherry’s Answer
Feeling lost without a job lined up? Will I ever find my footing?
Yes, you will! I spent months post-graduation sending out applications, feeling defeated with each rejection. Eventually, something clicked, and I landed a great role. Don't give up, your hard work *will* pay off!
Yes, you will! I spent months post-graduation sending out applications, feeling defeated with each rejection. Eventually, something clicked, and I landed a great role. Don't give up, your hard work *will* pay off!
Johan Paul
Photographer
3
Answers
Avon, Ohio
Updated
Johan’s Answer
Hi Robiah, loved reading this and seeing the positivity that you are bringing towards others. The statement that you made in your question is well said, and has a great way of encouraging young professionals coming into the industry. I would say to my younger self that rejections don't make you who you are, and the people around you at school or university are there to make the best of who you are and what you are going to be. The social interactions will be scary, but once that fear goes away, it is always finding what's next and figuring out the new things that capture interest. The answers above this question are great as well, and I think that whoever they are as a person, they have made big things happen where they are. The impact is leaving something better than you found it and we all can make impacts to help improve each other, collaborate, and succeed. I would say to my younger self that everything happens; sometimes it is good, and sometimes it is bad, but you are the person who ultimately chooses to say I can do this!
Tell a great story through who you are and your experiences through your years.
experience everything to the fullest!
Johan recommends the following next steps:
I was feeling a bit down before I saw your response, Johan.
Life won’t always go as planned, and that’s fine. Thank you for saying it how you did.
Robiah Thabit
Shelly Shen
Accountant
4
Answers
Livermore, California
Updated
Shelly’s Answer
I read Joe's answer, it is quite comprehensive, wow, it helps me as well.
From my experience, learning along the way, choosing what you like and capable of, building good relationships may be some aspects I think could emphasize again. Well, also, always be encouraging to yourself. It is a long journey.
From my experience, learning along the way, choosing what you like and capable of, building good relationships may be some aspects I think could emphasize again. Well, also, always be encouraging to yourself. It is a long journey.
Thank you, Shelly.
Robiah Thabit
Sophie Botko
Revenue Assurance/Corporate Billing
9
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Sophie’s Answer
Hi Robiah,
Make sure to regularly ask for feedback, especially when you're new to a job. It helps you understand if the industry is a good fit for you and if you're doing well in it. Feedback is key to success and can boost your professional growth. Be open to receiving feedback, but also remember to maintain your professional boundaries.
Make sure to regularly ask for feedback, especially when you're new to a job. It helps you understand if the industry is a good fit for you and if you're doing well in it. Feedback is key to success and can boost your professional growth. Be open to receiving feedback, but also remember to maintain your professional boundaries.
Kelly Pyrpyli
Civil Engineer _Project Management
1
Answer
Athens, Greece
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
Advice to My Younger Self
1. Don’t Panic If You Don’t Have It All Figured Out
When I was younger, I felt lost because I didn’t know what I wanted to be. Everyone around me seemed to have a plan—doctor, pop star, following their parents’ footsteps. Me? I was a blank canvas, but not the kind you paint masterpieces on—more like one smudged with tears from failed piano lessons. It’s okay not to have a clear path. Most people don’t, even if they look confident.
2. Your Value Isn’t Defined by Titles or Job Offers
I spent years worrying I was destined for to be mediocre. But what I learned is that your worth isn’t tied to a job title, a prestigious offer, or what others expect. Jobs don’t give you value—you bring value to them. Your unique perspective, resilience, and ability to lead or create order out of chaos are what make you valuable.
3. Detours Are Part of the Journey
My career path was anything but straight. I tried arts, sports, etc—none of them fit. I ended up in engineering almost by accident, guided by a teacher’s offhand comment. Later, I switched jobs, took risks, and wandered through uncertainty. Every detour taught me something important.
4. Talent Isn’t Always Obvious—And That’s Okay
For a long time, I thought I had no talent. Turns out, I was just looking in the wrong places. Talent isn’t always about what you do—it’s about how you do it. Maybe you’re not a musical prodigy or a star athlete, but you might be great at leading, organizing, or inspiring others. That’s just as valuable.
5. Everyone Is Figuring It Out
Online, people look put-together, but most are improvising as they go. Don’t compare your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel.
6. Keep Going, Even When You Feel Average
I reached where I am not because I was the most talented, but because I kept trying, kept learning, and didn’t give up. The journey is more fun when you embrace the struggle and the surprises.
So, to anyone reading this:
If you feel lost, untalented, or unsure—congratulations! You’re exactly where you need to be. Your journey is uniquely yours, and the value you bring is found in your persistence, your growth, and your willingness to keep moving forward. That’s what makes life after school truly interesting.
1. Don’t Panic If You Don’t Have It All Figured Out
When I was younger, I felt lost because I didn’t know what I wanted to be. Everyone around me seemed to have a plan—doctor, pop star, following their parents’ footsteps. Me? I was a blank canvas, but not the kind you paint masterpieces on—more like one smudged with tears from failed piano lessons. It’s okay not to have a clear path. Most people don’t, even if they look confident.
2. Your Value Isn’t Defined by Titles or Job Offers
I spent years worrying I was destined for to be mediocre. But what I learned is that your worth isn’t tied to a job title, a prestigious offer, or what others expect. Jobs don’t give you value—you bring value to them. Your unique perspective, resilience, and ability to lead or create order out of chaos are what make you valuable.
3. Detours Are Part of the Journey
My career path was anything but straight. I tried arts, sports, etc—none of them fit. I ended up in engineering almost by accident, guided by a teacher’s offhand comment. Later, I switched jobs, took risks, and wandered through uncertainty. Every detour taught me something important.
4. Talent Isn’t Always Obvious—And That’s Okay
For a long time, I thought I had no talent. Turns out, I was just looking in the wrong places. Talent isn’t always about what you do—it’s about how you do it. Maybe you’re not a musical prodigy or a star athlete, but you might be great at leading, organizing, or inspiring others. That’s just as valuable.
5. Everyone Is Figuring It Out
Online, people look put-together, but most are improvising as they go. Don’t compare your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel.
6. Keep Going, Even When You Feel Average
I reached where I am not because I was the most talented, but because I kept trying, kept learning, and didn’t give up. The journey is more fun when you embrace the struggle and the surprises.
So, to anyone reading this:
If you feel lost, untalented, or unsure—congratulations! You’re exactly where you need to be. Your journey is uniquely yours, and the value you bring is found in your persistence, your growth, and your willingness to keep moving forward. That’s what makes life after school truly interesting.
Priyanka Shahi
Electrical Engineer
20
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Priyanka’s Answer
Keep exploring until you find something you love, so your work isn't just about making money. Find a job that feels like your favorite hobby and brings you happiness and satisfaction, along with a paycheck.
Thank you, Priyanka.
Robiah Thabit
Kristen Jaccodine
High School School Counselor (Guidance Counselor)
18
Answers
Sussex, New Jersey
Updated
Kristen’s Answer
Hi Robiah,
If I could go back in time, I'd tell myself not to worry and to trust that each experience, connected to my major or not, will take me to the next step. The initial job (and graduate school) rejections hurt, but they wouldn't define me. Then, I would encourage myself to take what I learned from each of those experiences and apply it to the next interview. I'd also say - you have the rest of your life to work in a career. It's okay to just work to earn money, have some independence and explore. Take time to enjoy some of the things you want to, that you couldn't because you were a full-time student.
What I'd say to you now is trust what you know and believe that you do offer value to a job. Best of luck to you and congratulations.
If I could go back in time, I'd tell myself not to worry and to trust that each experience, connected to my major or not, will take me to the next step. The initial job (and graduate school) rejections hurt, but they wouldn't define me. Then, I would encourage myself to take what I learned from each of those experiences and apply it to the next interview. I'd also say - you have the rest of your life to work in a career. It's okay to just work to earn money, have some independence and explore. Take time to enjoy some of the things you want to, that you couldn't because you were a full-time student.
What I'd say to you now is trust what you know and believe that you do offer value to a job. Best of luck to you and congratulations.
Thanks, Kristen. I needed that reminder that the first rejections don’t define you and that it’s okay to take time to explore.
Robiah Thabit
Jerry Bires
career coach
71
Answers
Carbondale, Illinois
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
Robiah,
First, there are many fine answers here for you to review and I hope to not offer repetitive advice.
Truly, you are experiencing what I, the other folks who answered you, and about 50 million others on planet Earth also have gone through at your age in their lives. And your "search" may last decades, if I offer my own path as an example.
I'm currently 75. When I was 43, an employer looked at my resume and said my career progression didn't make sense to him because it appeared I had worked across multiple, and seemingly unrelated, jobs. In truth, he was right. I'd moved from Ohio to Los Angeles to the SF Bay area, which meant new employers at each stop. My interests and skills/abilities changed; not only my geographic location. Truly, only I could link together why the shifts in employment had been made. Bottom line, while he kindly took a gamble when he hired me in 2003; I worked for him as an employee and then a contractor for 15 years. My point is that life and career decision-making is not cookie-cutter and uncertainty and life situations tend to be fluid.
That all said, factor this into your decision-making. We're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function?
Conduct this Google search: what professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.
Good fortune to you moving forward.
First, there are many fine answers here for you to review and I hope to not offer repetitive advice.
Truly, you are experiencing what I, the other folks who answered you, and about 50 million others on planet Earth also have gone through at your age in their lives. And your "search" may last decades, if I offer my own path as an example.
I'm currently 75. When I was 43, an employer looked at my resume and said my career progression didn't make sense to him because it appeared I had worked across multiple, and seemingly unrelated, jobs. In truth, he was right. I'd moved from Ohio to Los Angeles to the SF Bay area, which meant new employers at each stop. My interests and skills/abilities changed; not only my geographic location. Truly, only I could link together why the shifts in employment had been made. Bottom line, while he kindly took a gamble when he hired me in 2003; I worked for him as an employee and then a contractor for 15 years. My point is that life and career decision-making is not cookie-cutter and uncertainty and life situations tend to be fluid.
That all said, factor this into your decision-making. We're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function?
Conduct this Google search: what professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.
Good fortune to you moving forward.
Thank you so much, Jerry. I really appreciate you sharing your story and perspective. The reminder that careers aren’t always cookie-cutter and that communication and adaptability matter a lot really encourages me.
Robiah Thabit
Steve J
Manager
35
Answers
Manhattan, Kansas
Updated
Steve’s Answer
That’s such a good mindset — especially the part about bringing value to jobs rather than the other way around. If I could talk to my younger self, I’d say: start practicing early, even if it feels awkward. Tools like AI Practice Interview platforms let you rehearse without judgment, so by the time real opportunities come, you’re confident in telling your story. I’d remind myself that career paths aren’t straight lines — detours teach you skills too. Anyone else feel the same?
Thank you, Steve.
Robiah Thabit
Sara Rusheidat
Intern
18
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Sara’s Answer
Practice interviewing more! I had to go through numerous interviews to be ultimately rejected. I reflected on what went wrong with each one and how I can improve for the next opportunity when given. Schools should offer events to practice interviewing and developing these skills, as well as resume building. Take advantage of them! Also making sure that the resume is written towards the job listing, so definitely also had to learn not be lazy when writing and editing my resume for the job openings I was applying to.
Thank you, Sara.
Robiah Thabit
James Lawton
Engineer
3
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
James’s Answer
Discover what you love. If you can turn it into a career, that's great. If not, you'll still have something in your life that gives you purpose and joy.
Thank you, James.
Robiah Thabit