11 answers
Bryleigh
Student
Cabot, Arkansas
11
Questions
Asked
3033 views
To all the professionals that struggled deciding between multiple careers: How did you decide and what did you choose??
I want to be an FBI Special Agent, but I also want to be a veterinary physical therapist
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11 answers
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2397
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question.
Below are my suggestions;
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions;
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Rebecca, thank you!
Bryleigh
LaDarian Ramirez Pascual
Store Manager
1
Answer
Memphis, Tennessee
Updated
LaDarian’s Answer
Bryleigh, Great Question! Thank you for seeking advice on Career Village!
Your Question: To All the Professionals who struggled with choosing between multiple careers, how did you decide and what did you choose?
Nice to meet you, my name is LaDarian. I noticed you are from Cabot, Arkansas. I am from Memphis, Tennessee. It’s exciting because we are neighboring States.
To answer your question, I decided through interest, accomplishments, and growing skillset. My first 3 jobs were good - the one that stood out the most was my 2nd job as a Bank Teller. The training timeline was a little over 1 month. I worked for Regions Bank.
I trained for over 1 month and it took me a while to realized what my responsibilities and expectations were, it’s actually funny. I was in the mindset that I was there to “get a paycheck, be relatively nice to people, and daydream about the future I hoped for.” If I’d stuck with that mindset, I’d still be in that spot and maybe worse off.
However, as I became acclimated with my daily responsibilities and my co-workers, I began to realize that this job and any job is a service to the customers and clients. Yes, you are there to get paid in exchange for your work. Yes, you are there to be kind and courteous to those you work with and your customers. And yes, you are there to ultimately daydream or “manifest” your future life. Above all, you are there to Serve.
I believe that when you realize that you are a Servant at work, then you will be able to tap-in to the area you’d like to serve. Continuing, during my 4th job, I got hired as a Member Service Representative at Planet Fitness. This opportunity changed the game for me. Planet Fitness’s structure opened up a world of opportunity and success. As a Member Service Representative, I was a Sales Representative, Customer Service Representative, Marketing Specialist, and Communication Specialist (all in one). And that is practically how I decided what I was called to do! I choose the Field of Business, Sales, and Communication because it all flows together.
I love Business Operations, I love to help people, and I love to communicate as long as I know what I am communicating about. Let’s face it, it’s no point in talking if you’re not saying anything that makes sense. It’s kind of like mom’s saying: “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” LOL.
I encourage you to look at your two options FBI Special Agent & Veterinarian Physical Therapist. Determine what you’re truly interested in and what skillset that you’re already good at that is a Top Skillset for that job. Do you like studying the Justice System and Crime or would you rather help and rehabilitate animals who have been hurt or seriously injured? Also, consider the time that it takes to complete school too! Are you focused enough for all those years of college to be an Animal Therapist or are you ready to get your foot in the workforce right after high school? If I’m not mistaken, you maybe be able to get into the field of FBI Special Agent right after high school.
No worries if you feel confident to work right after high school and start school a little later because many people become successful without college or university experience. And if you decide to take the University or College route for an Animal Therapist- pace yourself and figure out if you’ll be willing to make it to the finish line.
You can do this! You’re already asking the right questions.
1. Watch a YouTube Video About Becoming a FBI Special Agent
2. Watch a YouTube Video About Becoming a Veterinarian Physical Therapist
3. Compare the 2 careers
4. Take Note of what High School Courses You are Excelling at Now
5. Use those Courses You are Excelling at to compare them to potential careers
Your Question: To All the Professionals who struggled with choosing between multiple careers, how did you decide and what did you choose?
Nice to meet you, my name is LaDarian. I noticed you are from Cabot, Arkansas. I am from Memphis, Tennessee. It’s exciting because we are neighboring States.
To answer your question, I decided through interest, accomplishments, and growing skillset. My first 3 jobs were good - the one that stood out the most was my 2nd job as a Bank Teller. The training timeline was a little over 1 month. I worked for Regions Bank.
I trained for over 1 month and it took me a while to realized what my responsibilities and expectations were, it’s actually funny. I was in the mindset that I was there to “get a paycheck, be relatively nice to people, and daydream about the future I hoped for.” If I’d stuck with that mindset, I’d still be in that spot and maybe worse off.
However, as I became acclimated with my daily responsibilities and my co-workers, I began to realize that this job and any job is a service to the customers and clients. Yes, you are there to get paid in exchange for your work. Yes, you are there to be kind and courteous to those you work with and your customers. And yes, you are there to ultimately daydream or “manifest” your future life. Above all, you are there to Serve.
I believe that when you realize that you are a Servant at work, then you will be able to tap-in to the area you’d like to serve. Continuing, during my 4th job, I got hired as a Member Service Representative at Planet Fitness. This opportunity changed the game for me. Planet Fitness’s structure opened up a world of opportunity and success. As a Member Service Representative, I was a Sales Representative, Customer Service Representative, Marketing Specialist, and Communication Specialist (all in one). And that is practically how I decided what I was called to do! I choose the Field of Business, Sales, and Communication because it all flows together.
I love Business Operations, I love to help people, and I love to communicate as long as I know what I am communicating about. Let’s face it, it’s no point in talking if you’re not saying anything that makes sense. It’s kind of like mom’s saying: “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” LOL.
I encourage you to look at your two options FBI Special Agent & Veterinarian Physical Therapist. Determine what you’re truly interested in and what skillset that you’re already good at that is a Top Skillset for that job. Do you like studying the Justice System and Crime or would you rather help and rehabilitate animals who have been hurt or seriously injured? Also, consider the time that it takes to complete school too! Are you focused enough for all those years of college to be an Animal Therapist or are you ready to get your foot in the workforce right after high school? If I’m not mistaken, you maybe be able to get into the field of FBI Special Agent right after high school.
No worries if you feel confident to work right after high school and start school a little later because many people become successful without college or university experience. And if you decide to take the University or College route for an Animal Therapist- pace yourself and figure out if you’ll be willing to make it to the finish line.
You can do this! You’re already asking the right questions.
LaDarian recommends the following next steps:
Yashasvi Raikwar
Marketing Coordinator
9
Answers
Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
Updated
Yashasvi’s Answer
Hi Bryleigh, I went through something very similar so you’re definitely not alone. What helped me was writing down all my interests, learning about different careers connected to them, and slowly narrowing the list to what genuinely excited me. Once I started getting real, hands on experience instead of just reading about things, it became much clearer what felt right and what didn’t. Just sharing my story in case it brings you a little clarity too 💛
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
Federal Contract Admin
219
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
Consider these things. Is there anything that would disqualify you from either opportunity? Are you able to relocate as needed for either position? What is the job market (projected number of vacancies for either role) or which one would meet your compensation expectations? Research is important. Do you know anyone who is currently in these types of positions? Talk to them. They would likely be very helpful. Good luck, you will do well.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1185
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Bryleigh,
This is a really honest question, and it's more common than people realize, particularly if you're drawn to professions that are extremely different yet just as meaningful. A lot of professionals who battled between several career options did not "suddenly know." Instead of waiting for clarity, they decided by lowering uncertainty. Moving from imagining the jobs to actually experiencing them in small, low-risk ways—shadowing, volunteering, informative interviews, internships, or coursework that showed the day-to-day reality rather than the title—helped.
Realizing that fit is just as important as passion is a major turning point for many people. This involves asking challenging but useful questions, such as, "What kind of lifestyle can I maintain over the long term?" How can I deal with stress, uncertainty, and emotional burdens? Which settings make me feel energized or exhausted? The job of an FBI Special Agent is demanding, organized, often erratic, and heavily focused on service and mission. The demands of a veterinary physical therapist job are similar, but they are more relational and clinical and involve long-term caregiving. Although they both assist others, their daily routines, levels of autonomy, and pressures differ greatly.
In the end, a lot of professionals don't pick the career path that seems most interesting or impressive on paper but rather the one that best fits their underlying values and willingness to make sacrifices. Additionally, some people allow themselves to change careers rather than viewing it as a permanent choice. Pursuing one career today while retaining the other as a long-term specialization or pivot is acceptable. Choosing one does not mean betraying the other because careers are no longer linear.
Professionals who gathered real-world data, honestly considered their skills and limitations, and made a decision based on who they are today rather than who they believe they should be are the ones who are most satisfied with their choice. You only need enough information to make a confident decision; complete certainty is not necessary. Choosing the option that best suits you at this point in your life is more important than closing doors.
Best wishes!
This is a really honest question, and it's more common than people realize, particularly if you're drawn to professions that are extremely different yet just as meaningful. A lot of professionals who battled between several career options did not "suddenly know." Instead of waiting for clarity, they decided by lowering uncertainty. Moving from imagining the jobs to actually experiencing them in small, low-risk ways—shadowing, volunteering, informative interviews, internships, or coursework that showed the day-to-day reality rather than the title—helped.
Realizing that fit is just as important as passion is a major turning point for many people. This involves asking challenging but useful questions, such as, "What kind of lifestyle can I maintain over the long term?" How can I deal with stress, uncertainty, and emotional burdens? Which settings make me feel energized or exhausted? The job of an FBI Special Agent is demanding, organized, often erratic, and heavily focused on service and mission. The demands of a veterinary physical therapist job are similar, but they are more relational and clinical and involve long-term caregiving. Although they both assist others, their daily routines, levels of autonomy, and pressures differ greatly.
In the end, a lot of professionals don't pick the career path that seems most interesting or impressive on paper but rather the one that best fits their underlying values and willingness to make sacrifices. Additionally, some people allow themselves to change careers rather than viewing it as a permanent choice. Pursuing one career today while retaining the other as a long-term specialization or pivot is acceptable. Choosing one does not mean betraying the other because careers are no longer linear.
Professionals who gathered real-world data, honestly considered their skills and limitations, and made a decision based on who they are today rather than who they believe they should be are the ones who are most satisfied with their choice. You only need enough information to make a confident decision; complete certainty is not necessary. Choosing the option that best suits you at this point in your life is more important than closing doors.
Best wishes!
Siva Kann
VP of Products & Technology
31
Answers
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Siva’s Answer
Hello Bryleigh,
One thing I’d like to reframe first is how we use the word career.
- A job is something you do at a point in time.
- A career is something you build over many years, shaped by the experiences, skills, and decisions you accumulate along the way.
Most people don’t choose a career upfront. They take a next step, learn from it, and adjust.
I’m a good example of this. I never set out to build a tech startup. I spent decades in a corporate career, making choices that aligned with my interests in technology, design, and building teams. Looking back, the path makes sense — but it wasn’t obvious at the beginning.
Also, There’s a well-known example of a former Cinnabon president who started her working life as a Hooters server. That wasn’t the plan — it was just the next reasonable step at that time. Her career emerged over time, not from a single early decision.
The more practical question isn’t “Which career should I pick?”
It’s “What is the best next thing for me to do right now?”
When you are deciding that next step, I’ve found three filters to be incredibly helpful:
- Does this align with my values?
- Does it play to my strengths?
- Am I genuinely interested enough to stay engaged and grow?
If the answer is mostly yes, it’s usually a good move even if it doesn’t look like a perfect long-term plan yet.
Your two interests — FBI Special Agent and veterinary physical therapist may look very different on paper, but that doesn’t mean you need to resolve everything today. You can pursue education, experiences, or roles that keep your options open while you learn more about yourself and what energizes you.
The key is to keep enhancing yourself:
* Build skills
* Gain real-world experience
* Pay attention to how you feel doing the work
As you grow, you’ll either grow deeper in a direction or pivot — and both are normal. Careers evolve because people evolve.
You don’t need to have the entire path figured out. You just need to choose a next step that aligns with who you are right now and stay honest with yourself as you move forward.
Wish you the best!
- Siva
One thing I’d like to reframe first is how we use the word career.
- A job is something you do at a point in time.
- A career is something you build over many years, shaped by the experiences, skills, and decisions you accumulate along the way.
Most people don’t choose a career upfront. They take a next step, learn from it, and adjust.
I’m a good example of this. I never set out to build a tech startup. I spent decades in a corporate career, making choices that aligned with my interests in technology, design, and building teams. Looking back, the path makes sense — but it wasn’t obvious at the beginning.
Also, There’s a well-known example of a former Cinnabon president who started her working life as a Hooters server. That wasn’t the plan — it was just the next reasonable step at that time. Her career emerged over time, not from a single early decision.
The more practical question isn’t “Which career should I pick?”
It’s “What is the best next thing for me to do right now?”
When you are deciding that next step, I’ve found three filters to be incredibly helpful:
- Does this align with my values?
- Does it play to my strengths?
- Am I genuinely interested enough to stay engaged and grow?
If the answer is mostly yes, it’s usually a good move even if it doesn’t look like a perfect long-term plan yet.
Your two interests — FBI Special Agent and veterinary physical therapist may look very different on paper, but that doesn’t mean you need to resolve everything today. You can pursue education, experiences, or roles that keep your options open while you learn more about yourself and what energizes you.
The key is to keep enhancing yourself:
* Build skills
* Gain real-world experience
* Pay attention to how you feel doing the work
As you grow, you’ll either grow deeper in a direction or pivot — and both are normal. Careers evolve because people evolve.
You don’t need to have the entire path figured out. You just need to choose a next step that aligns with who you are right now and stay honest with yourself as you move forward.
Wish you the best!
- Siva
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1085
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Bryleigh,
You have picked two interesting careers there - and both are not necessarily quick and easy or straightforward to get into.
The requirements for FBI Special Agents include having at least a bachelors degree and two years of job experience or an advanced degree and at least one year of job experience. So, you need a job/career before you can even apply to be hired as a special agent. Special agents come from a variety of backgrounds including criminal justice, criminology, forensics, cybersecurity, accounting, law or psychology. The selection process is very competitive. If you get hired, you'll receive 850 hours of special agent training at the FBI. There are career options for STEM majors as well, but they would likely be more lab-based.
Veterinary physical therapists are licensed physical therapists (PT) or occupational therapists (OT) for humans, or veterinarians (DMV) who underwent postgraduate training in veterinary physical therapy. Training is typically specialized on a particular species, e.g. canine or equine. To become a PT, OT or DMV, a bachelors degree and a doctorate in the discipline is required. Getting into these doctorate programs is also very competitive.
The two careers are not really compatible, but if you want to keep your options open for a while, you could get a bachelors degree in a science before deciding if you want to apply for a STEM career in the FBI or veterinary/OT/PT school.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://research.com/careers/how-to-become-an-fbi-agent#3
https://fbijobs.gov/stem/science-medicine
https://fbijobs.gov/STEM
https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/washingtondc/recruitment
https://www.caninerehabinstitute.com/certifications/certified-canine-rehabilitation-therapist-ccrt-certification
You have picked two interesting careers there - and both are not necessarily quick and easy or straightforward to get into.
The requirements for FBI Special Agents include having at least a bachelors degree and two years of job experience or an advanced degree and at least one year of job experience. So, you need a job/career before you can even apply to be hired as a special agent. Special agents come from a variety of backgrounds including criminal justice, criminology, forensics, cybersecurity, accounting, law or psychology. The selection process is very competitive. If you get hired, you'll receive 850 hours of special agent training at the FBI. There are career options for STEM majors as well, but they would likely be more lab-based.
Veterinary physical therapists are licensed physical therapists (PT) or occupational therapists (OT) for humans, or veterinarians (DMV) who underwent postgraduate training in veterinary physical therapy. Training is typically specialized on a particular species, e.g. canine or equine. To become a PT, OT or DMV, a bachelors degree and a doctorate in the discipline is required. Getting into these doctorate programs is also very competitive.
The two careers are not really compatible, but if you want to keep your options open for a while, you could get a bachelors degree in a science before deciding if you want to apply for a STEM career in the FBI or veterinary/OT/PT school.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Curtis Wilson
Director for Student Success
6
Answers
Concord, North Carolina
Updated
Curtis’s Answer
I would make a decision based on a few factors: passions, possible salary, education needed, and academic skills. Which of the careers do you feel more passionately about? Which career pays more (if this matters to you)? How much education do you need for each field? Will the amount of education be worth the salary you may one day have? Lastly, which area do you possess more academic skills? If you are academically stronger in one of those careers, maybe that's the best bet.
You may also want to spend time conducting informational interviews with folks in your desired career paths. They can answer any questions you have and inform you of any major pros and cons of the field before you begin your academic journey.
At the end of the day, you are the only one who knows what's ultimately best for you.
You may also want to spend time conducting informational interviews with folks in your desired career paths. They can answer any questions you have and inform you of any major pros and cons of the field before you begin your academic journey.
At the end of the day, you are the only one who knows what's ultimately best for you.
Thank you for the advice, Curtis.
Bryleigh
Naveen B. Miller, CPCU
Human Resources Consultant
18
Answers
Bloomington, Illinois
Updated
Naveen B.’s Answer
Hi Bryleigh—Great question and one that many people struggle with—what direction should one go with multiple interests. It appears that you are a student, so I’m making an assumption that you’re asking early on in your life. The good news is that any decision you make isn’t necessarily your final. In other words, you may have multiple careers throughout your life. In this environment, that is not uncommon at all. However for purposes of selecting a field of study, I’d recommend you go with what kind of interests might be stronger, and follow that up with the types of education you’d need for each of those. For example, a physical therapist would require specific education—and you’d need to be prepared to pursue that. I would recommend a mentor who could help you talk through ideas.
The optional steps listed below should help you get started.
On a personal level—I had two areas of interest —Hotel Administration and/or HR management. I picked HR management because I took several related courses in college and loved it!!
You are already ahead by asking this question! All the best to you!
Make a list of pro’s and con’s of each area of interest
Under each area of interest, list the education level needed, and the types of courses you’d need to take. You will quickly find out which ones you prefer.
Talk to people you know who like what they do—that helps!! Ask them what they like and don’t like!
The optional steps listed below should help you get started.
On a personal level—I had two areas of interest —Hotel Administration and/or HR management. I picked HR management because I took several related courses in college and loved it!!
You are already ahead by asking this question! All the best to you!
Naveen B. recommends the following next steps:
Emma Anderson
Human Resources
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Wanting a career and being good at it are different, and that's okay. It's important to know this. Instead of just following your passion, see if the job is a good match for you. Talk to people who work in the field, learn about their daily routines, and think about what makes you feel tired or excited. The best career choice is often the one that feels natural and doesn't require constant effort to maintain your interest.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
818
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Deciding what you are going to be is a big decision. I always recommend to those I Coach that they should try to talk with people in those professions. Treat it like an interview and ask them what they like and don’t like. Might be challenging with FBI agents however.
I think many of us in our careers could name a few things that we wish we had known before we decided to do this with our life.
I think many of us in our careers could name a few things that we wish we had known before we decided to do this with our life.