6 answers
Kamiyah
Student
Tampa, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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How can I take the time to pursue all the careers that im interested in?
I'm a senior in high school and I'm not sure what career I think would suit me better.
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6 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
There are several things that you can do in order to determine what you want in regards to a future major or career path.
If you should decide to attend a college or university, you will have two years (until you declare a major at the beginning of your junior year in college), to make a final determination, of what you want to do. So, definitely take advantage of this time and complete your General University Requirements (during your first two years), so you can eventually progress into career choice or a college major.
As far as making a final career decision. You might start out by exploring your personal interests and strengths through activities like career assessments and the courses that you will be taking in your first two years. There will be a variety of things, that you will be taking when you get to college. This includes Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Math, and other courses. So definitely use these classes to determine where your strongest interests are.
Next, research different careers and majors, their course content, and potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with professors and people at the local or county career center, and investigating job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to be undecided and change things around as you learn more about yourself and different fields.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a major or a future occupation. Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would have paid someone, so that he could do it every day. His love of his major and occupation was this great.
If you should decide to attend a college or university, you will have two years (until you declare a major at the beginning of your junior year in college), to make a final determination, of what you want to do. So, definitely take advantage of this time and complete your General University Requirements (during your first two years), so you can eventually progress into career choice or a college major.
As far as making a final career decision. You might start out by exploring your personal interests and strengths through activities like career assessments and the courses that you will be taking in your first two years. There will be a variety of things, that you will be taking when you get to college. This includes Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Math, and other courses. So definitely use these classes to determine where your strongest interests are.
Next, research different careers and majors, their course content, and potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with professors and people at the local or county career center, and investigating job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to be undecided and change things around as you learn more about yourself and different fields.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a major or a future occupation. Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would have paid someone, so that he could do it every day. His love of his major and occupation was this great.
Sylvester Esuke
Product Development
1
Answer
Bowie, Maryland
Updated
Sylvester’s Answer
When choosing a career, start by thinking about what you love and enjoy doing. This might be a bit confusing in high school, but keep things simple. You can always change and adapt later. Begin by looking at your interests and asking yourself some basic questions: Do you like STEM classes, and are you doing well in them? Do you enjoy science, and how are your grades? What about the arts? This will help you narrow down your options. Then, choose an area where you think your strengths fit best and where you can make a difference. Remember, as long as you have the right skills and believe in your ability to grow, you can always adapt and explore other areas. For instance, if you enjoy math and science, you might consider becoming a mechanical or computer engineer. If helping others interests you, nursing might be a great path. Keep it simple, focus on your strengths, and be open to change as you grow.
Ryan Pfeiffer, MA
Firefighter Lieutenant / EMT
117
Answers
Fort Collins, Colorado
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Kamiyah, that is a tough question. In high school I too had many interests. There may be specific things you can do - speaking to school counselors, military recruiters, interviewing people in the profession, asking AI to make a pros and cons list for each, and so on. My advice will be more general though:
1) Don't feel pressured to "get it right". There is no right answer. Just do your best wherever you end up. and if you find that isn't a place you want to stay, you can change. I changed careers from the military to firefighting at 26 years old and it was not a big deal. I now train new firefighters, and many of the new firefighters I train are also making career changes - and some are much older than me. It's never too late to change.
2) I'm going to give some contradictory advice here - many people tell you take consider your hobbies or things you love to do and make a career of that. Yes, that can have many positives. I, for example, love firefighting. However, do know that no job is perfect and doing something full-time does tend to suck the fun out of it. You may love painting in your spare time, but as soon as you have a boss and a deadline and bills that depend on you finishing X paintings or selling them at Y price etc. etc. it can take the joy out of it. It's okay to have hobbies, and despite what hustle culture tells us, you don't have to monetize your every hobby.
3) A quick plug for the military since I see it's one option your considering. I started in the military, and while I decided it wasn't the career I wanted, I do still recommend it to others. Even if you only do it for four years, the benefits like the GI Bill and VA benefits will open many doors for you - everything from a free college education to help buying your first house. Not to mention the networking, world travel, job skills, leadership training, and so on. I know in high school a 4-year contract might seem daunting, but take it from an old veteran in his mid-30's - it'll go by in a flash.
Good luck to you. Let me know if you have any other questions.
1) Don't feel pressured to "get it right". There is no right answer. Just do your best wherever you end up. and if you find that isn't a place you want to stay, you can change. I changed careers from the military to firefighting at 26 years old and it was not a big deal. I now train new firefighters, and many of the new firefighters I train are also making career changes - and some are much older than me. It's never too late to change.
2) I'm going to give some contradictory advice here - many people tell you take consider your hobbies or things you love to do and make a career of that. Yes, that can have many positives. I, for example, love firefighting. However, do know that no job is perfect and doing something full-time does tend to suck the fun out of it. You may love painting in your spare time, but as soon as you have a boss and a deadline and bills that depend on you finishing X paintings or selling them at Y price etc. etc. it can take the joy out of it. It's okay to have hobbies, and despite what hustle culture tells us, you don't have to monetize your every hobby.
3) A quick plug for the military since I see it's one option your considering. I started in the military, and while I decided it wasn't the career I wanted, I do still recommend it to others. Even if you only do it for four years, the benefits like the GI Bill and VA benefits will open many doors for you - everything from a free college education to help buying your first house. Not to mention the networking, world travel, job skills, leadership training, and so on. I know in high school a 4-year contract might seem daunting, but take it from an old veteran in his mid-30's - it'll go by in a flash.
Good luck to you. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Kamiyah. You should make a list of all the jobs or fields that interest you. After that, look for simple ways to explore each one, such as joining summer programs, doing internships, or volunteering. Many schools, companies, and community groups offer short programs for high school students. Even spending a week or two learning about a job can help you see what it's really like. Job shadowing is another great idea, that is, spending a day with a professional lets you observe their work and ask questions.
You can also try learning more through classes. Take different electives in high school or consider introductory college courses in subjects that interest you. Online courses and workshops can also give you a taste of a field without a big commitment. After each experience, take some time to reflect. Ask yourself what you liked, what felt difficult, and whether you could see yourself doing this career long-term.
In fact, many people change jobs or careers several times in life. Right now, your goal is to explore, learn, and figure out what fits your interests and strengths. All the best.
You can also try learning more through classes. Take different electives in high school or consider introductory college courses in subjects that interest you. Online courses and workshops can also give you a taste of a field without a big commitment. After each experience, take some time to reflect. Ask yourself what you liked, what felt difficult, and whether you could see yourself doing this career long-term.
In fact, many people change jobs or careers several times in life. Right now, your goal is to explore, learn, and figure out what fits your interests and strengths. All the best.
Kimberly Krebs
Corporate Security Manager
89
Answers
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Many students are unsure about their future plans after graduation, and that's completely normal. Here's another option to consider: joining the military. This path helped me figure out my career direction. While it might not be for everyone, it does offer several benefits. The military can strengthen your resume, even if your role isn't directly related to your future job. Many companies prefer to hire veterans, giving them a hiring advantage. The military also teaches valuable skills that employers seek. Additionally, it provides financial support for college and other benefits after service. You'll earn a paycheck while gaining life experience, which can help you decide what you want to do when you get out.
Holly Boudreau
Sales
37
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Holly’s Answer
It's great that you're already considering this! I suggest talking to your family to see if they know someone who would let you shadow them at work in your field of interest. This way, you can experience a typical day on the job and later add it to your resume!