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How do I know which of the two jobs I am considering is the best for me and my preferences?
I am going into 9th grade next year and I am stuck between being and FBI Special Agent because I love problem solving and physical activity or being a marine mammal field veterinarian because I love dolphins, otters, pinnipeds, and all other marine animals. I don't know how to determine which one I would have more satisfaction in.
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4 answers
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Darlene’s Answer
Hello dear. I am amazed at the fact that you already have a vision for your future even if its not fully clear. May I suggest giving yourself grace. You are going into your High School years. Go in with intentionality and make sure that your voice is heard. Let it be known to your counselors and career advisors about your vision. I would also suggest that you keep your options open. Who knows, you may find that another great opportunity for learning awaiting you. 😉 Lastly, start researching (if you haven't already) colleges and career paths for those interest areas. Remember, your passion will yield the change you want to see but make sure it can sustain you. I hope this helps. Keep thriving my love. I believe in you. You got this.
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cassandra’s Answer
It sounds like you have two really exciting paths, and both match different parts of what you love! To figure out which might give you more satisfaction, here are some steps to consider:
Make a “priority list.”
Write down what matters most to you in a job—things like working with animals, solving mysteries, being physically active, having variety, helping people, or traveling. Then see which job matches your top priorities better.
Research each job.
Look into what a typical day looks like for an FBI Special Agent versus a marine mammal field veterinarian. Think about tasks, work environment, hours, and lifestyle. Sometimes the reality is different from what we imagine.
Consider long-term goals and training. Becoming an FBI agent or a marine mammal veterinarian requires different education and skills. Consider what kind of school, training, or lifestyle you’d enjoy for the next few years.
Try related experiences. If you can, do internships, volunteer, or shadow someone in each field. Even a day in the field or a summer camp related to marine animals can help you see what feels exciting or tiring.
Reflect on what energizes you. Ask yourself: After doing each type of work, would I feel fulfilled and excited, or drained? Which kind of challenges do I love tackling more?
Talk to people in the field. Reach out to FBI agents, marine biologists, or field veterinarians online or through programs. Firsthand stories often reveal things you can’t find online.
Extra tip: You don’t have to make the “perfect” choice right now. Many people explore a few paths before settling. What matters is finding something you’ll enjoy learning about and working toward.
Make a “priority list.”
Write down what matters most to you in a job—things like working with animals, solving mysteries, being physically active, having variety, helping people, or traveling. Then see which job matches your top priorities better.
Research each job.
Look into what a typical day looks like for an FBI Special Agent versus a marine mammal field veterinarian. Think about tasks, work environment, hours, and lifestyle. Sometimes the reality is different from what we imagine.
cassandra recommends the following next steps:
Updated
di’s Answer
Both careers have aspects you enjoy, but it seems you don’t yet have a full picture of what each job is really like. My advice would be to try both and let real experiences guide your decision. No matter what others say, if you haven’t experienced each one yourself, choosing either could leave you wondering what you missed with the other.
Updated
david’s Answer
First, I admire your enthusiasm and that you are wanting to make this decision now. Being aware of your future is a mature sign, and I encourage you to continue looking for opportunities and experiences. For now, I suggest you keep your options open. You are roughly seven or more years off when you need to make a decision, and even then no decision will be mandatory. When possible, seek opportunities in courses, activities, or clubs that expose you to new experiences. In the experiences, you will be discovering what you enjoy, such as having personal responsibility for achieving an objective, or working with others to achieve objectives. Should you go to college, go for the college experience: a time when you make the decisions what to do, whether course work or social activities. You will grow immeasurably in that experience. I wish you well.