17 answers
Abigail
Student
Ely, Minnesota
3
Questions
Asked
3933 views
For the people who struggled with finding a career, how were you able to figure it out?
Artist, Teacher, Nurse. This is the order in which I've wanted to become throughout my life. I've wanted to be an artist my entire life as a career. I forgot how to draw, paint, etc, when I was in my sophomore year of high school. I can see what I want to draw but I can never fully commit to it and draw it out. I've wanted to be a teacher since I was a freshman in high school. I first thought about being a nurse when I was 16 and volunteering at an infirmary at a high adventure base for scouting. I helped with patients, IVs, checking on blood sugars, figuring out what patients are the most important and the ones that can wait a few more minutes. I almost got into an EMT class and get my EMT license but then I found out I was moving and so I couldn't do it. It only makes me wonder If i just wasn't meant to do it. I'm 18 years old and a high school senior and I need to figure out what I want to do before I spend money on school on a career that I don't want to be apart of.
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17 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello again, Abigail !
I responded to your other inquiry which implied that you possibly were thinking about nursing school, but you state here that you have no career in mind now.
I understand Scouting America's Program in a high adventure base, but did you really act as a nurse for this program doing vitals, intravenous management, and triage when you were 16 and an unlicensed nurse ? I mean, I know the program and I am under the impression that the administration would never have someone unlicensed or fully untrained be a nurse. Which location did you do this at, just out of curiosity, Summit Bechtel Reserve, Philmont Scout Ranch, Sea Base in Florida, or Northern Tier in your state of Minnesota ? Just curious.
It's perfectly fine that you are thinking about careers and haven't chosen one yet. Give yourself time with this. Everyone gets inspired at different times in their lives and for different reasons. I was 6 when I first realized that I had to be an actress when I grew up. My mother was 40 when she decided to become an elementary school teacher. Unfortunately, you are the one who will need to decide which field of work to go into and no one can suggest or tell you which one you would love doing.
For starters, perhaps you can increase your socialization and interactions at school in your senior year. Join as many clubs and extracurriculars that you have time for and explore. Also attend any Job Fairs that happen in your town. Don't look at the indecision as a problem, because you have some time before college. You can enroll at a community college at first as an Undecided Major and give yourself more time while you take the required General Education courses. People suggest that you should decide upon a Major by the end of your Sophomore year going into your Junior year at college so you'd have time enough to get your degree in the usual four years.
Another way to ease your worry would be to take a gap year, work and explore various options for careers. One option if you do this would be to apply for an entry level county, state or city job. Think of the type of work that you like doing and can do, not of all the things you "can't" do. You will eventually find something that you really love, but social, life and cultural experiences will help you along the way. Also, the The Ely Chamber of Commerce provides a job board listing fulltime, part time, and seasonal positions across various sectors, so you may want to visit there and explore.
Other good supports would be the Northeast Minnesota Office of Job Training's Career Force Program and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
So try not to analyze it too much and worry, stay active, be around the things you love and eventually you will be inspired. It happens at different times for everyone.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
I responded to your other inquiry which implied that you possibly were thinking about nursing school, but you state here that you have no career in mind now.
I understand Scouting America's Program in a high adventure base, but did you really act as a nurse for this program doing vitals, intravenous management, and triage when you were 16 and an unlicensed nurse ? I mean, I know the program and I am under the impression that the administration would never have someone unlicensed or fully untrained be a nurse. Which location did you do this at, just out of curiosity, Summit Bechtel Reserve, Philmont Scout Ranch, Sea Base in Florida, or Northern Tier in your state of Minnesota ? Just curious.
It's perfectly fine that you are thinking about careers and haven't chosen one yet. Give yourself time with this. Everyone gets inspired at different times in their lives and for different reasons. I was 6 when I first realized that I had to be an actress when I grew up. My mother was 40 when she decided to become an elementary school teacher. Unfortunately, you are the one who will need to decide which field of work to go into and no one can suggest or tell you which one you would love doing.
For starters, perhaps you can increase your socialization and interactions at school in your senior year. Join as many clubs and extracurriculars that you have time for and explore. Also attend any Job Fairs that happen in your town. Don't look at the indecision as a problem, because you have some time before college. You can enroll at a community college at first as an Undecided Major and give yourself more time while you take the required General Education courses. People suggest that you should decide upon a Major by the end of your Sophomore year going into your Junior year at college so you'd have time enough to get your degree in the usual four years.
Another way to ease your worry would be to take a gap year, work and explore various options for careers. One option if you do this would be to apply for an entry level county, state or city job. Think of the type of work that you like doing and can do, not of all the things you "can't" do. You will eventually find something that you really love, but social, life and cultural experiences will help you along the way. Also, the The Ely Chamber of Commerce provides a job board listing fulltime, part time, and seasonal positions across various sectors, so you may want to visit there and explore.
Other good supports would be the Northeast Minnesota Office of Job Training's Career Force Program and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
So try not to analyze it too much and worry, stay active, be around the things you love and eventually you will be inspired. It happens at different times for everyone.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
I was at Philmont Scout Ranch and they let me volunteer to see if being a nurse was my future intention. I was with a doctor, nurse or a medical student at every moment so they never let me work by myself.
Abigail
That's interesting.
Michelle M.
James Hanson
Pediatric Intensive Care Physician; Consultant
160
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
James’s Answer
My thoughts align with those of Wyatt. I didn't know what I wanted to be when I was your age. I knew that getting a college degree would open up many possibilities. Even during college, I wondered about several possibilities. I really wanted to be a natural historian, but my own professors told me to make that a hobby, not a career. I wanted to be in musical theater, but a lot of people told me that would be a very difficult path. I did discuss my considerations with vocational counselors, who were helpful. I am pleased to say that - after following a family practitioner around for a month - I decided to become a physician. But I think the message is to never stop learning and exploring. Do reflect on what motivates you and brings you joy. What are your core values? Every job will have good days and bad days, but if you know you are doing work that matters you can succeed.
Marzia Sultan
Tech Writer/Editor
12
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Marzia’s Answer
Hi!! What you are going through is totally normal and the fact that you are able to sit and refoect on the things you want is very beyond your years when there are so many people pushing thirty who don’t know what they want . Everything gradually falls into place and goals change as you experience life. Please remember you are young and still have time so there is no need to rush what you want to do with your life and there’s no saying that you can’t gradually dabble in all your interests.
I would say before you start college gradually get back into your hobbies maybe through community events, research and I also advise that in college see what suites you best before you commit to a major take courses in your interest areas because it is also incredibly smart to not want to waste finances on a degree you won’t use or a subject you aren’t passionate about. Maybe you may end up somewhere that allows you to combine all your interests that often happens with people have interests in a number of subjects like myself. Consider what you think you can commit to full time and what aligns with your values. Service industry jobs for instance are full time commitment in serving others but a very noble career like nursing and teaching but take years of commitment and practice. Art on the other had takes years of commitment rejection and practice as well. I’d say start with that idea of slowly looking into all these areas through researching programs but I also think in circumstances like this sit and reflect on a “why” you want to do this. If you have a why, long term you will be able to commit to what is write for you. Stay consistant and informed and you’ll end up in thr profession meant for you.
I would say before you start college gradually get back into your hobbies maybe through community events, research and I also advise that in college see what suites you best before you commit to a major take courses in your interest areas because it is also incredibly smart to not want to waste finances on a degree you won’t use or a subject you aren’t passionate about. Maybe you may end up somewhere that allows you to combine all your interests that often happens with people have interests in a number of subjects like myself. Consider what you think you can commit to full time and what aligns with your values. Service industry jobs for instance are full time commitment in serving others but a very noble career like nursing and teaching but take years of commitment and practice. Art on the other had takes years of commitment rejection and practice as well. I’d say start with that idea of slowly looking into all these areas through researching programs but I also think in circumstances like this sit and reflect on a “why” you want to do this. If you have a why, long term you will be able to commit to what is write for you. Stay consistant and informed and you’ll end up in thr profession meant for you.
Prisilla Karolina Siregar
Art Teacher
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Prisilla Karolina’s Answer
Hi Abigail,
Thanks so much for reaching out! Your question resonates with me because I also had a lot of interests growing up. When I was a kid, I loved art, and that passion eventually led me to consider becoming a fashion designer, a teacher, and an x-ray technician. In the end, I let my skills guide me, and I’m now an art teacher. But the path wasn't direct—before this, I was an office manager, a jewelry production manager, a marketing assistant, and a theater production assistant!
It sounds like your passion for nursing is really strong, especially since you’ve taken so many steps toward it. It's completely understandable to feel discouraged after having to turn down the EMT program, but try not to let that get you down. The road to finding your career often has detours, and that's okay.
If you're feeling uncertain and want to keep your options open, here's an idea: look into starting at a community college. You can get all of your prerequisite courses out of the way, like basic science, English, and math. These are credits that can be transferred to almost any four-year program you choose later, and it's a much more affordable way to start. The idea of what happens after high school can be stressful for seniors but there are strategies to navigate it, and sometimes it doesn't need to be a straight path to our career program.
Also, be sure to look into financial aid. Many states and private companies offer scholarships specifically for nursing students, and if you ever reconsider teaching, programs like **Teach for America** can be a great option.
I know it can feel like a lot to figure out right now, but you've got this. Good luck on your journey!
Thanks so much for reaching out! Your question resonates with me because I also had a lot of interests growing up. When I was a kid, I loved art, and that passion eventually led me to consider becoming a fashion designer, a teacher, and an x-ray technician. In the end, I let my skills guide me, and I’m now an art teacher. But the path wasn't direct—before this, I was an office manager, a jewelry production manager, a marketing assistant, and a theater production assistant!
It sounds like your passion for nursing is really strong, especially since you’ve taken so many steps toward it. It's completely understandable to feel discouraged after having to turn down the EMT program, but try not to let that get you down. The road to finding your career often has detours, and that's okay.
If you're feeling uncertain and want to keep your options open, here's an idea: look into starting at a community college. You can get all of your prerequisite courses out of the way, like basic science, English, and math. These are credits that can be transferred to almost any four-year program you choose later, and it's a much more affordable way to start. The idea of what happens after high school can be stressful for seniors but there are strategies to navigate it, and sometimes it doesn't need to be a straight path to our career program.
Also, be sure to look into financial aid. Many states and private companies offer scholarships specifically for nursing students, and if you ever reconsider teaching, programs like **Teach for America** can be a great option.
I know it can feel like a lot to figure out right now, but you've got this. Good luck on your journey!
Wyatt .
Retired Corporate Executive
54
Answers
United States
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Abigail,
It is common for individuals, particularly during their final years of high school, to feel uncertain about their long term career direction. The fact that you have explored multiple areas of interest, shows that you are actively reflecting on what kind of work could be meaningful to you. Rather than viewing these shifts as indecision, it may be more accurate to see them as valuable exploration. At your age, there is no need to permanently lock yourself into one profession, as many people change careers multiple times throughout their lives. The key is to approach this stage intentionally by seeking out experiences that allow you to test your interests in the real world before making significant financial commitments to a degree program. By focusing on the specific skills and daily tasks you enjoy, rather than only job titles, you may find that several seemingly different fields share common ground. For example, art, teaching, and healthcare all involve communication, problem solving, and helping others in some capacity, which means there may be hybrid or less traditional careers that draw from all three areas.
Keep in mind you can start college before committing to a formal education path usually by the start of year two depending on your desired field. As for career fields, it is wise to explore these interests through low cost or no cost opportunities such as volunteering, community classes, shadowing professionals, or part time work in related settings. This “testing before investing” approach can help you better understand the realities of each field and whether the work aligns with your abilities, values, and long-term lifestyle goals. You might also consider that careers can evolve and combine over time; an art teacher, a medical illustrator, or a health educator are all examples of roles that blend creative and teaching skills with healthcare knowledge. Your first career choice does not need to be your permanent one, it is often just the first step in a longer journey. By remaining open to exploration, prioritizing hands on experience, and making informed decisions about education, you will place yourself in a stronger position to find a profession that not only fits your skills but also sustains your interest over time.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
It is common for individuals, particularly during their final years of high school, to feel uncertain about their long term career direction. The fact that you have explored multiple areas of interest, shows that you are actively reflecting on what kind of work could be meaningful to you. Rather than viewing these shifts as indecision, it may be more accurate to see them as valuable exploration. At your age, there is no need to permanently lock yourself into one profession, as many people change careers multiple times throughout their lives. The key is to approach this stage intentionally by seeking out experiences that allow you to test your interests in the real world before making significant financial commitments to a degree program. By focusing on the specific skills and daily tasks you enjoy, rather than only job titles, you may find that several seemingly different fields share common ground. For example, art, teaching, and healthcare all involve communication, problem solving, and helping others in some capacity, which means there may be hybrid or less traditional careers that draw from all three areas.
Keep in mind you can start college before committing to a formal education path usually by the start of year two depending on your desired field. As for career fields, it is wise to explore these interests through low cost or no cost opportunities such as volunteering, community classes, shadowing professionals, or part time work in related settings. This “testing before investing” approach can help you better understand the realities of each field and whether the work aligns with your abilities, values, and long-term lifestyle goals. You might also consider that careers can evolve and combine over time; an art teacher, a medical illustrator, or a health educator are all examples of roles that blend creative and teaching skills with healthcare knowledge. Your first career choice does not need to be your permanent one, it is often just the first step in a longer journey. By remaining open to exploration, prioritizing hands on experience, and making informed decisions about education, you will place yourself in a stronger position to find a profession that not only fits your skills but also sustains your interest over time.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
Thank you so much, Wyatt!
Abigail
Anytime!! I was in the same boat, so I started by earning an Associate of Arts in General Studies before eventually choosing to pursue business school. If you’re unsure where to start, do yourself a favor and take a career assessment like the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Holland Code (RIASEC). I regularly recommend these tools in my career coaching sessions for people just entering the job market or those considering a career change, they’re a great way to gain clarity and direction.
Wyatt .
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Abigail! When I was a boy, I got telescopes as gifts and dreamed of becoming an astronomer. But in senior school, my uncle passed away at 38 from a heart attack due to a genetic condition in our family that caused high cholesterol. This led me to switch my focus from math and physics to biological chemistry.
Then, my uncle's old boss started teaching at our university as a Biochemistry Professor, which inspired me even more. Reading Dr. Paavo Airola's book "Are You Confused?" also influenced my path. After my father passed away at 50, I decided to become a dietitian-nutritionist.
When choosing a career, it's important to consider our hidden talents and genetic traits. Psychological profile tests can guide us to the right profession, one that matches who we are, so we don't have to change ourselves for a job that doesn't fit, which can cause stress.
Nutrition is crucial for optimal brain function. We need 102 nutrients for the maintenance of good psychological health. Instead of sugar, and refined carbohydrates, we should eat low glycemic index wholefoods, unrefined breads, pasta, cereals, lower sugar fruits, legumes and vegetables. We need these starches regularly in moderate amounts for steady blood glucose.
We also need to drink enough high-quality water—33 milliliters per kilogram of body weight daily—and consume adequate protein (lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, milk, yogurt) throughout the day for amino acids. The secret to academic success is consuming these substances in moderate amounts at regular intervals, say every 2 hours, throughout the day. That supplies the brain with the nutrients it needs, when it needs them!
Then, my uncle's old boss started teaching at our university as a Biochemistry Professor, which inspired me even more. Reading Dr. Paavo Airola's book "Are You Confused?" also influenced my path. After my father passed away at 50, I decided to become a dietitian-nutritionist.
When choosing a career, it's important to consider our hidden talents and genetic traits. Psychological profile tests can guide us to the right profession, one that matches who we are, so we don't have to change ourselves for a job that doesn't fit, which can cause stress.
Nutrition is crucial for optimal brain function. We need 102 nutrients for the maintenance of good psychological health. Instead of sugar, and refined carbohydrates, we should eat low glycemic index wholefoods, unrefined breads, pasta, cereals, lower sugar fruits, legumes and vegetables. We need these starches regularly in moderate amounts for steady blood glucose.
We also need to drink enough high-quality water—33 milliliters per kilogram of body weight daily—and consume adequate protein (lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, milk, yogurt) throughout the day for amino acids. The secret to academic success is consuming these substances in moderate amounts at regular intervals, say every 2 hours, throughout the day. That supplies the brain with the nutrients it needs, when it needs them!
Tunc Suzal
Project Management
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Tunc’s Answer
Hi Abigail! I'm glad you're already thinking about your career path.
What I can tell you from my personal view is that I started school wanting to be a mechanical engineer. I loved working on cars and thought this was the path for me. While going to school, I found a job installing cell phones into cars. I never considered it as a career, but just a job while I was in school. I fell in love with the technology and continued working as a technician. A few years later, I began working for Verizon in the stores. This path led me to numerous jobs. Eventually, I moved into Operations to support the stores where I had worked. I continued to move around to various jobs and now I work on emerging hardware (new tech hardware) to support our frontline employees, and I love it!
I say all of this because I started off with one path, and it led me on a journey. I recommend you figure out your core foundation (traits) and go from there. In a few days, I will have been with Verizon for 27 years, and I have loved every job and boss I have worked with. I have a feeling that you are going to do great for yourself because you are already asking questions about a career path.
What I can tell you from my personal view is that I started school wanting to be a mechanical engineer. I loved working on cars and thought this was the path for me. While going to school, I found a job installing cell phones into cars. I never considered it as a career, but just a job while I was in school. I fell in love with the technology and continued working as a technician. A few years later, I began working for Verizon in the stores. This path led me to numerous jobs. Eventually, I moved into Operations to support the stores where I had worked. I continued to move around to various jobs and now I work on emerging hardware (new tech hardware) to support our frontline employees, and I love it!
I say all of this because I started off with one path, and it led me on a journey. I recommend you figure out your core foundation (traits) and go from there. In a few days, I will have been with Verizon for 27 years, and I have loved every job and boss I have worked with. I have a feeling that you are going to do great for yourself because you are already asking questions about a career path.
Aditya Dalwadi
Software engineer
2
Answers
Pune, Maharashtra, India
Updated
Aditya’s Answer
Hello! It's completely okay to be in the phase you're in right now. The fact that you're thinking about this early on is actually a huge advantage—many people don’t start reflecting on these questions until their thirties, so you're already ahead of the game. Don’t stress about it too much.
My first piece of advice is: don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. You never know what you might discover or where you might end up, so it’s important to explore as much as possible. I would recommend that, over the next one or two months, you try out a variety of things—whether it's different careers, hobbies, or areas of interest. If, after this period, you still feel uncertain about what direction to take, trust in yourself. Follow what feels right deep down in your heart. Life often has a way of guiding us when we listen to our inner voice.
Just remember: it’s okay not to have it all figured out right away. The journey is just as important as the destination.
My first piece of advice is: don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. You never know what you might discover or where you might end up, so it’s important to explore as much as possible. I would recommend that, over the next one or two months, you try out a variety of things—whether it's different careers, hobbies, or areas of interest. If, after this period, you still feel uncertain about what direction to take, trust in yourself. Follow what feels right deep down in your heart. Life often has a way of guiding us when we listen to our inner voice.
Just remember: it’s okay not to have it all figured out right away. The journey is just as important as the destination.
Annie Fox
Product Marketing Manager
4
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annie’s Answer
If you're planning to attend a 2 or 4-year university, consider choosing a broad major like business administration or engineering. This will require you to take basic classes in different subjects, helping you decide on a specific area to focus on. After that, get a job in any industry. This will help you discover what roles you enjoy and allow you to grow your career through hands-on experience.
Michelle Wallace
Senior Analyst
2
Answers
Roanoke, Virginia
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Feeling lost about your career is normal. Start by shifting your mindset: instead of searching for a single, perfect 'passion,' focus on finding a promising direction for the next few years. Your career is a long journey, so the goal is to make a good next step, not to have it all figured out at once.
Next, look inward to understand your strengths. Don't just ask what you love; ask what problems you enjoy solving and what activities give you energy. Analyze past projects and jobs to see when you felt most engaged, and ask trusted friends what they see as your natural talents; their perspective can be incredibly revealing.
Then, look outward to connect your self-assessment with real jobs. The best way to do this is through informational interviews—short chats with people in fields that interest you to learn about the day-to-day reality of their work. You can also run low-stakes 'career experiments,' like taking an online course or doing a small freelance project, to test your interest before making a big commitment.
Finally, use your research to take action. Choose a direction, not a permanent destination, and focus on building transferable skills rather than just chasing a job title. Commit to a path for a year or two to give it a fair try, and then consciously re-evaluate. The objective isn't to find the perfect forever career, but to make a thoughtful next move on a path of continuous learning and discovery.
Next, look inward to understand your strengths. Don't just ask what you love; ask what problems you enjoy solving and what activities give you energy. Analyze past projects and jobs to see when you felt most engaged, and ask trusted friends what they see as your natural talents; their perspective can be incredibly revealing.
Then, look outward to connect your self-assessment with real jobs. The best way to do this is through informational interviews—short chats with people in fields that interest you to learn about the day-to-day reality of their work. You can also run low-stakes 'career experiments,' like taking an online course or doing a small freelance project, to test your interest before making a big commitment.
Finally, use your research to take action. Choose a direction, not a permanent destination, and focus on building transferable skills rather than just chasing a job title. Commit to a path for a year or two to give it a fair try, and then consciously re-evaluate. The objective isn't to find the perfect forever career, but to make a thoughtful next move on a path of continuous learning and discovery.
babitha asha
Internal medicine physician
15
Answers
Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Updated
babitha’s Answer
Being a physician is not just another job—it’s a lifelong commitment. You must truly love caring for people in their most vulnerable moments, when nothing is neat or easy. You will see suffering in its rawest forms: patients in pain, severe injuries, blood, vomit, bodily fluids, and heartbreaking diagnoses. You may find yourself in situations that test both your courage and your compassion—holding a hand during a last breath, comforting a frightened child, or working tirelessly to save a life.
If you have the resilience to face these challenges, the empathy to treat every patient with dignity, and the dedication to keep learning for the rest of your life, then medicine can be one of the most deeply rewarding callings. It’s not a hobby or a casual career—it’s a responsibility to serve humanity at its most difficult times, and the privilege of making a profound difference in people’s lives.
If you have the resilience to face these challenges, the empathy to treat every patient with dignity, and the dedication to keep learning for the rest of your life, then medicine can be one of the most deeply rewarding callings. It’s not a hobby or a casual career—it’s a responsibility to serve humanity at its most difficult times, and the privilege of making a profound difference in people’s lives.
Charu Bansal
Product Leader
3
Answers
Livingston, New Jersey
Updated
Charu’s Answer
Hello! It's often said that people may go through about seven career changes before finding something they truly love. There's no single right answer to this; you'll feel it in your heart when you discover the right profession for you. I've experienced several career changes myself and am still searching for my next big opportunity. It all depends on where you are in your life and how satisfied you feel. So, don't lose hope! If you're not happy with your current situation, pour your heart into finding the next best thing that suits you.
Michelle Lebo
Social Impact
1
Answer
Princeton, New Jersey
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
At the start of my career, I followed my passion and worked in the culinary field. It was an amazing experience that I truly loved, but over time, my passion faded.
When I was figuring out my next step, I worked for a temp agency. This gave me the chance to explore many different opportunities. I encourage everyone to look beyond their comfort zone because it can lead to something new and exciting, just like it did for me.
Good luck on your exciting journey to discover what's out there for you!
When I was figuring out my next step, I worked for a temp agency. This gave me the chance to explore many different opportunities. I encourage everyone to look beyond their comfort zone because it can lead to something new and exciting, just like it did for me.
Good luck on your exciting journey to discover what's out there for you!
Rajesh Deb Barma
Researcher
2
Answers
Agartala, Tripura, India
Updated
Rajesh’s Answer
I can hear the uncertainty and pressure you’re feeling right now, and I want you to know this is completely normal. Having multiple genuine interests but feeling unsure about committing to one path is something many people go through—especially at 18, when the world seems to expect you to “have it all figured out.”
Most people don’t have their career mapped out at 18, even if it looks that way from the outside. Career paths are rarely straight lines, and many of the most fulfilled people took winding routes to get where they are. The fact that you’ve had hands-on healthcare experience and felt drawn to it, while also having long-standing creative interests and a desire to teach, shows you already have a good sense of what engages you. That’s not confusion—that’s valuable self-knowledge.
You don’t have to choose forever right now. Many people change careers, and your interests in art, teaching, and nursing actually have more overlap than you might think. Fields like art therapy, teaching in healthcare settings, medical illustration, health education, or patient advocacy could combine your creativity, teaching spirit, and care for others.
And remember—missing that EMT opportunity doesn’t mean you “weren’t meant” for healthcare. Sometimes life logistics derail plans, but that doesn’t erase your potential or interest in the field. Your volunteer experience in the infirmary—helping patients, problem-solving, and working under pressure—revealed real strengths worth exploring.
You mentioned you “forgot how to draw.” Artistic skill doesn’t disappear—it just gets rusty without practice. That creative part of you is still there. Try rekindling it through regular practice, community art groups, or online classes. Also, think about which moments in the infirmary felt most meaningful: learning medical skills, helping patients feel better, or problem-solving under time pressure. This reflection can guide which part of healthcare you might want to explore first.
You can test these paths without huge financial risk—shadow professionals, volunteer again in healthcare settings, take community college courses, find part-time work related to your interests, join affordable art classes, or volunteer as a tutor or teaching assistant.
Career clarity often comes through doing, not just thinking. You’re young, you have time, and your path doesn’t need to be straight. Your multiple interests are not a burden—they’re a strength that could lead you to a unique and fulfilling career combining the best parts of each field. For now, focus on exploring, reconnecting, and learning from each experience. The right direction will become clearer step by step.
Most people don’t have their career mapped out at 18, even if it looks that way from the outside. Career paths are rarely straight lines, and many of the most fulfilled people took winding routes to get where they are. The fact that you’ve had hands-on healthcare experience and felt drawn to it, while also having long-standing creative interests and a desire to teach, shows you already have a good sense of what engages you. That’s not confusion—that’s valuable self-knowledge.
You don’t have to choose forever right now. Many people change careers, and your interests in art, teaching, and nursing actually have more overlap than you might think. Fields like art therapy, teaching in healthcare settings, medical illustration, health education, or patient advocacy could combine your creativity, teaching spirit, and care for others.
And remember—missing that EMT opportunity doesn’t mean you “weren’t meant” for healthcare. Sometimes life logistics derail plans, but that doesn’t erase your potential or interest in the field. Your volunteer experience in the infirmary—helping patients, problem-solving, and working under pressure—revealed real strengths worth exploring.
You mentioned you “forgot how to draw.” Artistic skill doesn’t disappear—it just gets rusty without practice. That creative part of you is still there. Try rekindling it through regular practice, community art groups, or online classes. Also, think about which moments in the infirmary felt most meaningful: learning medical skills, helping patients feel better, or problem-solving under time pressure. This reflection can guide which part of healthcare you might want to explore first.
You can test these paths without huge financial risk—shadow professionals, volunteer again in healthcare settings, take community college courses, find part-time work related to your interests, join affordable art classes, or volunteer as a tutor or teaching assistant.
Career clarity often comes through doing, not just thinking. You’re young, you have time, and your path doesn’t need to be straight. Your multiple interests are not a burden—they’re a strength that could lead you to a unique and fulfilling career combining the best parts of each field. For now, focus on exploring, reconnecting, and learning from each experience. The right direction will become clearer step by step.
Thank you for the advice, Rajesh.
Abigail
Claxton Graham
Business Analyst
24
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Claxton’s Answer
Hello, Abigail.
At your current age, I didn't envision doing the job I do now. At that time, I was in college studying for a career as a civil engineer, with the goal of designing airports and highways. But an inability to grasp differential equations, combined with some serious health issues, derailed that pursuit. I changed majors to follow a different subject of interest, communication, with the goal of going into either radio or television broadcasting as an on-air talent or as an announcer.
After I earned my communication degree, I spent a year working for a small video production company and advertising agency. Although I mainly handled administrative and receptionist duties, I also worked as a production assistant on video shoots and did some voiceover work for a couple of commercials.
Because the job with the video production company had very limited potential for growth and opportunity, I took a temporary job with a major financial services company, in their document imaging group. In that role, I read customer correspondence and coded it so that it could be scanned in for our customer service teams in another city to process. For example, if a customer indicated a change of address, that letter got one code. If the customer disputed a charge on their credit card, that got a different code. I also spent part of my time managing our relationship with the Postal Service, including picking up the mail from the station and ensuring funds were available to cover incoming Business Reply Mail.
After four years in that role, I moved into my current career in forms design and analysis with the same company. Though it's not what I set out to do, it does blend elements of engineering and communication. Over the last 27 years, I've worked on thousands of projects to create and revise paper forms like envelopes, statement papers, and check stock, and electronic forms in formats like PDF and Word, for my employer. Due to my age and health issues, it's also the career I will retire from.
Though I have largely enjoyed my career, have learned a lot and met a lot of great people along the way, I still deeply regret that I did not get my degree in engineering. Instead of working on great infrastructure projects like Interstate 485, the Outer Belt girdling Charlotte, or expansions and renovations at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, as I really wanted to do, the best I can do is build that kind of infrastructure in city simulation games like Cities Skylines.
I hope that whatever career you choose to pursue, that you don't run into any road blocks that derail you or, that if you do, you are able to overcome them and do the work you want to do. More importantly, I hope you don't have any regrets about what transpires in your career path.
At your current age, I didn't envision doing the job I do now. At that time, I was in college studying for a career as a civil engineer, with the goal of designing airports and highways. But an inability to grasp differential equations, combined with some serious health issues, derailed that pursuit. I changed majors to follow a different subject of interest, communication, with the goal of going into either radio or television broadcasting as an on-air talent or as an announcer.
After I earned my communication degree, I spent a year working for a small video production company and advertising agency. Although I mainly handled administrative and receptionist duties, I also worked as a production assistant on video shoots and did some voiceover work for a couple of commercials.
Because the job with the video production company had very limited potential for growth and opportunity, I took a temporary job with a major financial services company, in their document imaging group. In that role, I read customer correspondence and coded it so that it could be scanned in for our customer service teams in another city to process. For example, if a customer indicated a change of address, that letter got one code. If the customer disputed a charge on their credit card, that got a different code. I also spent part of my time managing our relationship with the Postal Service, including picking up the mail from the station and ensuring funds were available to cover incoming Business Reply Mail.
After four years in that role, I moved into my current career in forms design and analysis with the same company. Though it's not what I set out to do, it does blend elements of engineering and communication. Over the last 27 years, I've worked on thousands of projects to create and revise paper forms like envelopes, statement papers, and check stock, and electronic forms in formats like PDF and Word, for my employer. Due to my age and health issues, it's also the career I will retire from.
Though I have largely enjoyed my career, have learned a lot and met a lot of great people along the way, I still deeply regret that I did not get my degree in engineering. Instead of working on great infrastructure projects like Interstate 485, the Outer Belt girdling Charlotte, or expansions and renovations at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, as I really wanted to do, the best I can do is build that kind of infrastructure in city simulation games like Cities Skylines.
I hope that whatever career you choose to pursue, that you don't run into any road blocks that derail you or, that if you do, you are able to overcome them and do the work you want to do. More importantly, I hope you don't have any regrets about what transpires in your career path.
Hi Claxton, thank you for sharing your story. Can you share a little more on how you ended up deciding on communications and document imaging? Explaining that process might help this user with their own journey!
Gurpreet Lally, Admin
Hi there, Gurpreet. Per your request, I have added some details about my change of major and my time working in document imaging.
Claxton Graham
Thank you so much!
Gurpreet Lally, Admin
Alexander Smith
7
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Alexander’s Answer
It’s completely normal to feel this way, especially at 18. Many people take years, sometimes decades, to figure out the right career fit. One thing that can help is exploring each interest through low-risk opportunities before committing financially, like volunteering, internships, shadowing professionals, or even short online courses. Your experiences with art, teaching, and healthcare already show you have a wide skill set and curiosity, which is a strength. Instead of rushing into one path, give yourself space to test things out and learn what you truly enjoy day-to-day. You don’t have to have it all figured out right now.
Jennifer Lucke
Career Coach
4
Answers
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Abigale! I appreciate your question, especially as someone who grew up wanting to be a teacher, veterinarian, then a nurse, but ultimately found my way into higher education working in the career development space. First, I want to normalize your experience. I’ve worked with people across many age ranges and have come to realize that most people don’t have their career completely figured out even into their 50s and 60s. That’s right: I’ve worked with professionals at all stages of life who have felt uncertain about their next step. I’ve felt it myself at times, too. After all, there are countless career options, people are working longer than ever before, and most people will have multiple careers within their lifetime. Given where you are in life, it’s completely natural to ask, “How do I figure out the career path that’s right for me?”. While it’s tempting to believe others have it all figured out, the truth is that this is a very complex question most people spend a lifetime trying to answer.
After reading through other responses, I’d like to add three pieces of advice: find the themes in your interests, think of your career like a science experiment, and consider the life you want to live.
Your interests, strengths, and skills will evolve over time which helps explains why you’ve been drawn to different careers at different stages of your life. From what you’ve shared, I would guess that you are interested in serving others (whether by inspiring, educating, or healing), expressing yourself creatively, and demonstrating empathy. Do these themes resonate with you? If so, start exploring other occupations that center on these qualities such a counselor, educational technologist/instructional designer (designing creative learning experiences), community arts program leader, health communication specialist, etc.. Many people don’t even realize certain occupations exist until later in their career when they are exposed to them.
Given your interest in nursing, I’ll also guess that you enjoy science. I recommend thinking of your career as one big science experiment:
- Observe yourself. What tasks energize you? Which school subjects do you gravitate toward? What settings do you enjoy working in? What are your natural strengths?
- Ask questions. Where do you feel most engaged? What problems do you want to solve?
- Form a hypothesis. Based on your observations, what occupations seem like a good fit? Which ones spark curiosity and excitement?
- Experiment. Shadow, volunteer, take a short course, or network with professionals to gain exposure. Remember, impressions can vary depending on the organization or team so use multiple methods to test our your hypothesis.
- Evaluate and adjust. Reflect on what worked, make changes, and test a new hypothesis.
- Repeat. This process likely will repeat many times throughout your career.
Finally, I want to share a piece of advice I wish I’d received when choosing my college major: think about the lifestyle you want, not just the job title. I started college as a nursing major, completed all my prerequisites, applied to nursing school, was accepted, and then turned down my acceptance. Why? Because after years of shadowing nurses, volunteering in hospitals, attending medical exploration programs, and making professional connections, I realized the lifestyle didn’t align with my values. I saw nurses working long, exhausting shifts, sacrificing their health, and operating in high-stress environments. Nursing is an incredible and important profession, but it wasn’t the right path for me.
This experience taught me to slow down, listen to myself, and explore other pathways until I found a career that fit both my skills and my life goals. I now encourage everyone I work with to ask: What are my non-negotiables? What work environments suit me best? How can I work to live, rather than live to work? What do I want my day-to-day life to look like? How much income and what benefits do I need to support my lifestyle? Essentially, design the life you want first, then find an occupation that fits into it. This approach not only increases career satisfaction but also helps you live authentically.
After reading through other responses, I’d like to add three pieces of advice: find the themes in your interests, think of your career like a science experiment, and consider the life you want to live.
Your interests, strengths, and skills will evolve over time which helps explains why you’ve been drawn to different careers at different stages of your life. From what you’ve shared, I would guess that you are interested in serving others (whether by inspiring, educating, or healing), expressing yourself creatively, and demonstrating empathy. Do these themes resonate with you? If so, start exploring other occupations that center on these qualities such a counselor, educational technologist/instructional designer (designing creative learning experiences), community arts program leader, health communication specialist, etc.. Many people don’t even realize certain occupations exist until later in their career when they are exposed to them.
Given your interest in nursing, I’ll also guess that you enjoy science. I recommend thinking of your career as one big science experiment:
- Observe yourself. What tasks energize you? Which school subjects do you gravitate toward? What settings do you enjoy working in? What are your natural strengths?
- Ask questions. Where do you feel most engaged? What problems do you want to solve?
- Form a hypothesis. Based on your observations, what occupations seem like a good fit? Which ones spark curiosity and excitement?
- Experiment. Shadow, volunteer, take a short course, or network with professionals to gain exposure. Remember, impressions can vary depending on the organization or team so use multiple methods to test our your hypothesis.
- Evaluate and adjust. Reflect on what worked, make changes, and test a new hypothesis.
- Repeat. This process likely will repeat many times throughout your career.
Finally, I want to share a piece of advice I wish I’d received when choosing my college major: think about the lifestyle you want, not just the job title. I started college as a nursing major, completed all my prerequisites, applied to nursing school, was accepted, and then turned down my acceptance. Why? Because after years of shadowing nurses, volunteering in hospitals, attending medical exploration programs, and making professional connections, I realized the lifestyle didn’t align with my values. I saw nurses working long, exhausting shifts, sacrificing their health, and operating in high-stress environments. Nursing is an incredible and important profession, but it wasn’t the right path for me.
This experience taught me to slow down, listen to myself, and explore other pathways until I found a career that fit both my skills and my life goals. I now encourage everyone I work with to ask: What are my non-negotiables? What work environments suit me best? How can I work to live, rather than live to work? What do I want my day-to-day life to look like? How much income and what benefits do I need to support my lifestyle? Essentially, design the life you want first, then find an occupation that fits into it. This approach not only increases career satisfaction but also helps you live authentically.