12 answers
Emma
Student
Inverell, NSW
1
Question
Updated
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I am struggling to think of a career or goal for the future. Any advice?
I'm thinking about going to university but I'm not sure what career I'm working towards. I have an interest in history and psychology, but I can't think of goals to work towards to become motivated. My hobbies include gaming and I love to read. I also love learning but I just don't know where i want to go in life.
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11 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I would also consider looking into some adult education technical certificate programs, which are normally offered at local junior, community and technical colleges. These short term training and certification classes can be potentially very helpful in assisting you to make career changes and choices, even if you eventually make the choice to not pursue a bachelors degree.
These certificate and technical programs offer focused, job-oriented training and education to gain or enhance workplace skills in fields like technology, business, and healthcare, or to specialize in future education and training roles such as a corporate trainer, gaming occupations, curriculum developer, or community educator.
The programs, are normally designed for career advancement, career changes, and professional development by providing relevant, practical knowledge and skills that lead directly to employment or a deeper understanding of specific industries.
So, going the technical college and professional certification route, might be something to seriously look at to further your education and skills.
These certificate and technical programs offer focused, job-oriented training and education to gain or enhance workplace skills in fields like technology, business, and healthcare, or to specialize in future education and training roles such as a corporate trainer, gaming occupations, curriculum developer, or community educator.
The programs, are normally designed for career advancement, career changes, and professional development by providing relevant, practical knowledge and skills that lead directly to employment or a deeper understanding of specific industries.
So, going the technical college and professional certification route, might be something to seriously look at to further your education and skills.
Don Holland
Member Service Representative/Food Runner
244
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Don’s Answer
Hello Emma,
It is okay to not understand exactly what you want to do right now in life. I have been in the same situation throughout most of my life and is normal to not understand what you want to do straight away. I didn't know that I wanted to be a Social Work major till this year. My advice would be to try out different interests relating to things you want, maybe volunteer, do more research and explore.
The good thing is that you have time today to learn, grow and find out what you want to pursue in life. It is okay to switch throughout your life with what you want because we evolve and change throughout life. You will find out what you want and you will do well in whatever you want to pursue.
Keep being curious.
It is okay to not understand exactly what you want to do right now in life. I have been in the same situation throughout most of my life and is normal to not understand what you want to do straight away. I didn't know that I wanted to be a Social Work major till this year. My advice would be to try out different interests relating to things you want, maybe volunteer, do more research and explore.
The good thing is that you have time today to learn, grow and find out what you want to pursue in life. It is okay to switch throughout your life with what you want because we evolve and change throughout life. You will find out what you want and you will do well in whatever you want to pursue.
Keep being curious.
Michelle Duke
Developer Relations
8
Answers
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Definitely jump into some work experience. Try different things out.
Research the type of careers you can do in history and psychology and seek out some experience with those. Getting hands on is one of the best ways to discover if you enjoy something. Many companies are happy to take on work experience students. Try out a variety of different options and think outside the box. For example, many people think "history", therefore I should be a history teacher. But there are many other jobs too including archivist, museum curator, researcher, journalist, or cultural heritage manager. Working with a local council on their history and culture strategy is another not-so-common history career.
See what you can find, gather some work experience and then you'll have a better idea of what you want to do. All the best and good luck.
Research the type of careers you can do in history and psychology and seek out some experience with those. Getting hands on is one of the best ways to discover if you enjoy something. Many companies are happy to take on work experience students. Try out a variety of different options and think outside the box. For example, many people think "history", therefore I should be a history teacher. But there are many other jobs too including archivist, museum curator, researcher, journalist, or cultural heritage manager. Working with a local council on their history and culture strategy is another not-so-common history career.
See what you can find, gather some work experience and then you'll have a better idea of what you want to do. All the best and good luck.
Leticia Avalos
Fraud Analysis
1
Answer
Maricopa, Arizona
Updated
Leticia’s Answer
Figuring out your future can feel overwhelming... I've been there myself, especially when you're interested in a lot of things. However, since you like history, psychology, reading, and learning, you’ve already got a good starting point. Maybe try a class or explore those areas more to see what clicks. Psychology, for example, opens doors to counseling, research, marketing, UX design, and more. History can lead to education, writing, law, archiving, or public policy.
What helped me back then was setting smaller and short-term goals, and you can try the same. For example:
- Take one class or online course in psych or history to see what really grabs you.
- Talk to people in careers that sound interesting. You can do that on LinkedIn, Reddit, and even professors.
- Journal what you enjoy or what you could see yourself doing, even vaguely—it helps.
And don’t stress about having one clear goal yet, just pick a direction that feels interesting for now. You can always pivot later. Sometimes taking small steps helps the bigger picture come into focus.
What helped me back then was setting smaller and short-term goals, and you can try the same. For example:
- Take one class or online course in psych or history to see what really grabs you.
- Talk to people in careers that sound interesting. You can do that on LinkedIn, Reddit, and even professors.
- Journal what you enjoy or what you could see yourself doing, even vaguely—it helps.
And don’t stress about having one clear goal yet, just pick a direction that feels interesting for now. You can always pivot later. Sometimes taking small steps helps the bigger picture come into focus.
Amber Lee
Tax Associate
84
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Amber’s Answer
Hi Emma,
I think it's okay to feel that sort of uncertainty at this stage of your life. I didn't exactly know where I was headed either when I entered university, and I was also a pretty average student academically in high school school so I didn't feel particularly motivated to pursue degrees I knew I was not going to excel in. I ended up majoring in art because it was the only thing I was interested in at that time (and very conscious of the fact I could end up a starving artist). After graduating with a degree in hand, I still did not know what to do in life, but I had just completed an internship with an art museum and had developed an interest in art law, so I went to law school with that goal in mind. Fast-forward to today: I am a licensed attorney but I do not practice law in my current role. Instead, I work for a large accounting firm doing mergers and acquisitions tax consulting work. I still paint on the side as a hobby.
People often take meandering paths to get to where they are, and oftentimes career paths may shift dramatically based on new opportunities and changes in life circumstances. I'm not entirely familiar with how university curriculums are structured in Australia, but if you do decide to go to university and have the opportunity to take electives outside of your major, I would encourage you to do so. I would also encourage you to look into internships and volunteer work. You mentioned you have an interest in history, psychology, and gaming--you could potentially explore these interests further by investing time in a personal project which involves one of these, or all of them! These are short-term goals that are probably a little easier to reach and could help you get a better sense of what you want to focus on in life (i.e., your long term goals). Ultimately, your goals do not have to be something that are set in stone forever; you are free to adjust and adapt as needed to get to where you want to be.
I think it's okay to feel that sort of uncertainty at this stage of your life. I didn't exactly know where I was headed either when I entered university, and I was also a pretty average student academically in high school school so I didn't feel particularly motivated to pursue degrees I knew I was not going to excel in. I ended up majoring in art because it was the only thing I was interested in at that time (and very conscious of the fact I could end up a starving artist). After graduating with a degree in hand, I still did not know what to do in life, but I had just completed an internship with an art museum and had developed an interest in art law, so I went to law school with that goal in mind. Fast-forward to today: I am a licensed attorney but I do not practice law in my current role. Instead, I work for a large accounting firm doing mergers and acquisitions tax consulting work. I still paint on the side as a hobby.
People often take meandering paths to get to where they are, and oftentimes career paths may shift dramatically based on new opportunities and changes in life circumstances. I'm not entirely familiar with how university curriculums are structured in Australia, but if you do decide to go to university and have the opportunity to take electives outside of your major, I would encourage you to do so. I would also encourage you to look into internships and volunteer work. You mentioned you have an interest in history, psychology, and gaming--you could potentially explore these interests further by investing time in a personal project which involves one of these, or all of them! These are short-term goals that are probably a little easier to reach and could help you get a better sense of what you want to focus on in life (i.e., your long term goals). Ultimately, your goals do not have to be something that are set in stone forever; you are free to adjust and adapt as needed to get to where you want to be.
Mikaela Smith
Product Designer
1
Answer
Salt Lake City, Utah
Updated
Mikaela’s Answer
I started college right out of high school, but after a year, life circumstances required me to withdraw and begin working full time. I spent several years in the workforce before returning to school at 25, and I now see that time as incredibly valuable. It gave me space to grow as a person, and my interests shifted significantly during those years. In fact, the field I ultimately entered didn’t really exist when I first started college, and it’s not a career I would have even known was possible back then.
When I went back to school, I had a much clearer sense of why I was there and what I wanted out of my education. This made me a more motivated student, but also helped me decide how much formal education I really needed for the career I wanted to pursue. I also brought real-world experience with me and a broader perspective I could connect to my field of study. Many of my peers couldn't appreciate the value or reasoning behind what we were learning, but having already spent time in the working world, I understood why those skills mattered.
I agree that looking at a trade or technical school might be a great fit for you. It gives you access to a skilled job and the opportunity to get exposure to an industry you might be interested in. There are so many jobs that we don't realize exist until you are actively working in a field. The most valuable lesson I learned is that if you’re intentional, you can pull value out of almost any job. Every role offers opportunities to build skills that later translate into strengths both in the classroom and the workplace.
This mindset helped me succeed not only in school but also in interviews. I could draw from a wide range of experiences to answer questions, often highlighting real work situations to show how I had applied skills in practice. It also made me a more mature candidate with better practical and general business sense than a lot of new graduates just starting to look into their field. I still feel like the years I spent working before going back to college were one of the best things that happened to me.
When I went back to school, I had a much clearer sense of why I was there and what I wanted out of my education. This made me a more motivated student, but also helped me decide how much formal education I really needed for the career I wanted to pursue. I also brought real-world experience with me and a broader perspective I could connect to my field of study. Many of my peers couldn't appreciate the value or reasoning behind what we were learning, but having already spent time in the working world, I understood why those skills mattered.
I agree that looking at a trade or technical school might be a great fit for you. It gives you access to a skilled job and the opportunity to get exposure to an industry you might be interested in. There are so many jobs that we don't realize exist until you are actively working in a field. The most valuable lesson I learned is that if you’re intentional, you can pull value out of almost any job. Every role offers opportunities to build skills that later translate into strengths both in the classroom and the workplace.
This mindset helped me succeed not only in school but also in interviews. I could draw from a wide range of experiences to answer questions, often highlighting real work situations to show how I had applied skills in practice. It also made me a more mature candidate with better practical and general business sense than a lot of new graduates just starting to look into their field. I still feel like the years I spent working before going back to college were one of the best things that happened to me.
Kevin Hiney
Government Relations and Public Policy
1
Answer
Belgium
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Thank you for your thoughtful question. It sounds like you have a great foundation for success with your interests and love for learning. This openness is key as you start your career journey. It can be tough and a bit scary to set career goals, and it might feel like you need to have them all figured out by the time you finish school. But many people are in the same boat and share your enthusiasm and interests. Here are a few things to think about that might help.
Firstly, don't let not having a clear career goal stop you from going to university. University can actually help you discover what you might want to do. It might relate to your interests, like history or psychology, or it might lead you to new interests or mentors. Universities offer a lot of resources like career guidance and mentorship to help you grow both personally and professionally. You'll meet many people with different interests and perspectives, and they can help you explore your interests further and find possible career paths.
Also, remember that university offers extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and other opportunities that can broaden your view. It might feel overwhelming, but try to say yes to these opportunities. Embrace your love of learning, and you'll gain more clarity about your career, yourself, and life in general.
Firstly, don't let not having a clear career goal stop you from going to university. University can actually help you discover what you might want to do. It might relate to your interests, like history or psychology, or it might lead you to new interests or mentors. Universities offer a lot of resources like career guidance and mentorship to help you grow both personally and professionally. You'll meet many people with different interests and perspectives, and they can help you explore your interests further and find possible career paths.
Also, remember that university offers extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and other opportunities that can broaden your view. It might feel overwhelming, but try to say yes to these opportunities. Embrace your love of learning, and you'll gain more clarity about your career, yourself, and life in general.
Larry Siegel
Government Liaison, Non-profit fundraising, Non-profit operation
45
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Larry’s Answer
Emma -- You have plenty of time to understand the career your wish to pursue. You can enter college as a Liberal Arts major. Once you have started college instruction you will start to understand what you are good at, and what captures your interest. Much of your first year of college will be devoted to required courses. Perhaps you will have time for a few introductary courses in history and psychology.
As you start your college studies, you will see what other students are studying and begin to think about certain careers. Gradually, you will move toward a particular set of classes that seem to appeal to you.
When you start college, follow your current interests in history and psychology to learn if your really are interested in those areas and whether you want to specialize in one or the other. Also, if career counsellors are availble at your college, take advantage of them. Ask their help in suggesting career ideas that match your learning strengths and interests.
Finally, do not be surprised if as an adult you choose to change careers. There are many reasons why you may find that your are not rewarded by your current career, or that you have become interested in a new career.
As you start your college studies, you will see what other students are studying and begin to think about certain careers. Gradually, you will move toward a particular set of classes that seem to appeal to you.
When you start college, follow your current interests in history and psychology to learn if your really are interested in those areas and whether you want to specialize in one or the other. Also, if career counsellors are availble at your college, take advantage of them. Ask their help in suggesting career ideas that match your learning strengths and interests.
Finally, do not be surprised if as an adult you choose to change careers. There are many reasons why you may find that your are not rewarded by your current career, or that you have become interested in a new career.
Esther Venmans
Senior Quality director
7
Answers
Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
Updated
Esther’s Answer
It's completely normal.
If everything in life were planned out from the start, it would be pretty boring. The real fun comes from exploring, learning, and growing.
One of the best things about our time is the freedom to change direction. The choices you make now, like your studies, don't decide your whole future. If something doesn't feel right anymore, be brave and choose a new path. That's what keeps my mind sharp, my passion strong, and my creativity alive.
If everything in life were planned out from the start, it would be pretty boring. The real fun comes from exploring, learning, and growing.
One of the best things about our time is the freedom to change direction. The choices you make now, like your studies, don't decide your whole future. If something doesn't feel right anymore, be brave and choose a new path. That's what keeps my mind sharp, my passion strong, and my creativity alive.
Linh Tran
Artist and Fashion Designer
2
Answers
Rosemead, California
Updated
Linh’s Answer
Hi Emma, As a individual who is currently in my 20s, I still am figuring out what I want to do for a career. I love art and fashion. Currently, I am an emerging artist and a fashion designer. My hobbies include reading about fairytales, watch Studio Ghibli films, and take nature photography. During my undergraduate, I majored in art and fashion. I am still uncertainty whether I made the right choice to major in art and fashion or not. What matters to me is I believe in myself. I feel that the belief that I have in myself was what motivated me to keep going. To keep making art and create a fashion collection. The hope that one day I will make a difference with the art that I make. After a lot of courage, I have put my creations out into the world. My advice is to choose what makes you happy. You can narrow down what you love the most. I noticed that you listed you have an interest in history and psychology. The first option is you can major in either history or psychology depending on which one you like the most. You can graduate with a bachelors in your selected major. The second option is You can major in history and minor in psychology in university. To double major, it takes a lot of determination and dedication to finish both programs at the same time. I believe that you can do it. The third option is you can go with undecided if you are still unsure yet. If maybe a choice you choose did not go the way you want, you can try again. Keep trying until you feel that you have found what you want to do. You don't have to have everything figure out right now. Everyone at any age that they are at is still figuring it out. I hope this helps! :)
Michelle Casey
Marketing
8
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
It's completely normal not to know exactly what you want to do. Why not try an online career profile? There are plenty of free options. You can also take some courses and do a bit of online research to explore different subjects you're interested in. Starting a side project, like developing games or something tech-related, might also lead you to your passion.
It's great to have skills in different areas, so keep trying, testing, and learning. And remember, don't stop reading!
It's great to have skills in different areas, so keep trying, testing, and learning. And remember, don't stop reading!