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How do I know what pathway is right for me?

I am interested in architecture, yet I have no experience in it. I don't really want to do accounting, but a family friend has already promised me a job out of college as an accountant. Should I do what I'm interested in, or go with the guaranteed job security?

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Wong’s Answer

Hi Jeremy. You need to think about why architecture interests you. Even if you have no experience, being drawn to a field matters. Most students start college without knowing much about their major, so you're not behind. What you can do now is explore it a little: watch videos about what architects do, try a short beginner course, or learn about the different types of architecture jobs. This will help you figure out if your curiosity is strong enough to turn into a career.

Now, you can consider the accounting option. Having a guaranteed job after college is a big advantage, and it can feel comforting to know you'd have financial security. But if you already know you don't enjoy accounting, that's important to pay attention to. A stable job won't feel as good if you dislike the work you're doing every day.

A useful way to think about this is to imagine which choice you're more likely to regret later. If you choose accounting, will you always wonder what your life might have been like if you'd tried architecture? Or if you choose architecture, would you regret not taking the "safe" path?

The best pathway is the one that feels meaningful and makes you excited to learn and grow. Wishing you all the best.
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Bruce’s Answer

Jeremy, while guaranteed and safe options might seem appealing now, remember that with four years of education ahead, things can change a lot. Every job has its ups and downs, but loving what you do helps you get through tough times. My advice is to follow what interests you. I chose accounting because it offered many job opportunities and felt like a safe choice. It led me to other fields like IT consulting and sales, and my accounting background has been very helpful. Starting in accounting can prepare you for various careers, but if your passion is architecture, that requires a different path. Consider your options, but I suggest leaning towards what truly excites you, which seems to be architecture.
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Caitlin’s Answer

Hi Jeremy,

This is the age old question! It's often been said, "do what you love and you'll never work a day in your life". I don't know that I really agree with that statement, because work is work and there will always be aspects of it that are frustrating, tedious, and not exactly what you love doing. But, you do spend so much time in your life working.

I agree with some of the other answers, encouraging you to reflect on what you love about architecture. Are they things that could translate into accounting? What don't you love about accounting? Do you have a way to find someone in either field (not part of the family business, but someone who is more objective) who can give you better insight into each profession? Maybe some of the things you love about architecture, or dislike about accounting, are misconceptions.

If architecture requires additional education or certification, are there internships to help you get experience? Or could working in the family friend's business help give you other skills that would translate well (communication, problem solving, critical thinking, time management) into architecture or other fields?

Follow your gut! You can change career paths, or you may find another area that interests you even more!
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Aric’s Answer

Hi Jeremy, it's fantastic that you're thinking about what works best for you. While a guaranteed job after education sounds appealing, it's important to choose a career that truly excites you. Consider why you're drawn to architecture. Is it about being creative and designing spaces for people? While accounting allows for creativity with numbers, it differs from architecture. You're still early in your career journey, and your interests might change in college. It's a good idea to find a university that offers architecture and other fields you might like. Don't feel rushed to decide right now; keep your options open. Try reaching out to a local architecture firm to shadow someone for a day or week, and do the same with accounting if you can. There are so many career paths to explore, so stay open-minded. Good luck with whatever you choose!
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