17 answers
Bryleigh
Student
Cabot, Arkansas
11
Questions
Asked
2531 views
I'm really struggling with deciding what I want to do with my life and what to study in high school and college, so please give me advice!
I'm getting to the point of I want to pull my hair out because I have to choose a track to go down to graduate high school and I want to be an FBI Agent, but nothing else interests me!
17 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1060
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
You might start out by exploring your personal interests and strengths through activities like taking career assessments, at a local job or employment center. This will help you determine where your greatest strengths are, whether it be in things like Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Math, Computer Science, Sports Careers and other career concentrations.
Next, research different potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with people like college professors and people at the career center, and investigating national and regional job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to be undecided and be willing to change things around as you get more experience and learn more about yourself and different fields. As we grow older we should definitely be willing to seek more education and engage in activities that will enable us to progress in life.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a college major or even 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.
Next, research different potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with people like college professors and people at the career center, and investigating national and regional job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to be undecided and be willing to change things around as you get more experience and learn more about yourself and different fields. As we grow older we should definitely be willing to seek more education and engage in activities that will enable us to progress in life.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a college major or even 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.
Atul Bhankharia
Sales
499
Answers
Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Updated
Atul’s Answer
You're in high school, so there's plenty of time to explore different career paths. Start by challenging yourself with tough courses like Math, Advanced English, Calculus, Chemistry, and Physics. These classes will help you see what you're good at. Every school has a guidance counselor who can give you advice, but the final choice is yours. If you're still unsure after 11th grade, think about which subjects you enjoy the most. That's the first step in figuring out your career path.
Sagarika Priyadarshini
Senior Advisor, Product Management - IT
18
Answers
Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
Updated
Sagarika’s Answer
Hello Bryleigh ,
You don’t need to have your whole life figured out right now, and you’re definitely not behind. High school is a time to explore different interests, not to lock yourself into one path forever.
Wanting to be an FBI agent already gives you a solid starting point — many students have no idea what they want, so having a direction you are excited about is a real strength. The FBI hires people from all kinds of backgrounds, so there’s no single “perfect” track you have to follow. Choose the path that feels manageable and helps you build useful skills like communication, problem‑solving, and discipline — those matter far more than any specific subject. And remember, your high‑school choice isn’t permanent; people change majors and careers all the time. You are not stuck, you are not failing — you are simply taking the next step, and that’s enough.
Wish you all the best !
You don’t need to have your whole life figured out right now, and you’re definitely not behind. High school is a time to explore different interests, not to lock yourself into one path forever.
Wanting to be an FBI agent already gives you a solid starting point — many students have no idea what they want, so having a direction you are excited about is a real strength. The FBI hires people from all kinds of backgrounds, so there’s no single “perfect” track you have to follow. Choose the path that feels manageable and helps you build useful skills like communication, problem‑solving, and discipline — those matter far more than any specific subject. And remember, your high‑school choice isn’t permanent; people change majors and careers all the time. You are not stuck, you are not failing — you are simply taking the next step, and that’s enough.
Wish you all the best !
Lynda Benko
Senior Director - Administrative Support
2
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Lynda’s Answer
Hi Bryleigh! It's great that you're asking this question, and it's totally normal to feel unsure about your future. I felt the same way in high school! You've already received some great advice, and here's what I suggest:
1) Be kind to yourself and try not to stress too much. It's okay to think you want one thing and then change your mind later on.
2) Since you're interested in becoming an FBI agent, do some research on what qualifications are needed. Consider if you're excited about working toward those goals.
3) Keep your options open. While you need to choose a path for school, also take some classes that simply interest you, even if they're not related to being an FBI agent. If you enjoy being creative, try an art or music class. If you love reading, explore literature courses.
Whatever you decide, trust yourself. Remember, this community is here to support you!
1) Be kind to yourself and try not to stress too much. It's okay to think you want one thing and then change your mind later on.
2) Since you're interested in becoming an FBI agent, do some research on what qualifications are needed. Consider if you're excited about working toward those goals.
3) Keep your options open. While you need to choose a path for school, also take some classes that simply interest you, even if they're not related to being an FBI agent. If you enjoy being creative, try an art or music class. If you love reading, explore literature courses.
Whatever you decide, trust yourself. Remember, this community is here to support you!
Sue West
Retired military
20
Answers
Updated
Sue’s Answer
Check out this website: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-degree-does-fbi-agent-need for information on what degrees you need to become an FBI agent. It explains the degree requirements and how they help in your FBI career. You need a 4-year degree to start, and a master's degree might be needed for higher positions. Good undergraduate degrees include Criminal Justice, Criminology, Public Safety Administration, Finance, Forensic Accounting, Forensic Science, Languages, Sociology, Psychology, Law, Social Studies, Computer Science, and Computer Security. To find the right high school courses for these degrees, search online for "What high school courses should I take to prepare for a degree in [your chosen field]." Also, consider joining extracurricular and community activities in high school to improve your chances of getting into your desired degree program. Good luck!
Ashley Holum
student
5
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Hi Bryleigh,
this is a tough subject! I wasn't sure if I really wanted to go to college either. I kind of just went with the flow and decided to get a bachelor's degree. I asked myself, "what interests me?"
I really enjoy psychology, exercise, and helping people. And I majored in clinical physiology and minored in psychology. It wasn't until my junior year (year 3) of college that I thought of physical therapy. I injured my knee and being a patient and experiencing physical therapy myself really made me enjoy it. The therapist has a HUGE influence of your view on PT. I knew I wanted to be there for people.
Remember, we're ALWAYS learning. And if you don't know, that's okay. Take a step back, focus on what you are interested in. If you want to be an FBI agent, shadow someone nearby or watch videos of what the day in the life looks like. Search up what degree you'd have to get and what classes/ training you'd have to take to be an FBI agent.
I promise it'll be okay! Reach out if you have more questions.
this is a tough subject! I wasn't sure if I really wanted to go to college either. I kind of just went with the flow and decided to get a bachelor's degree. I asked myself, "what interests me?"
I really enjoy psychology, exercise, and helping people. And I majored in clinical physiology and minored in psychology. It wasn't until my junior year (year 3) of college that I thought of physical therapy. I injured my knee and being a patient and experiencing physical therapy myself really made me enjoy it. The therapist has a HUGE influence of your view on PT. I knew I wanted to be there for people.
Remember, we're ALWAYS learning. And if you don't know, that's okay. Take a step back, focus on what you are interested in. If you want to be an FBI agent, shadow someone nearby or watch videos of what the day in the life looks like. Search up what degree you'd have to get and what classes/ training you'd have to take to be an FBI agent.
I promise it'll be okay! Reach out if you have more questions.
Heather Pausche (US)
HR
8
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Heather’s Answer
The FBI doesn’t require a specific major, and they actively recruit people from many backgrounds. What they care about is maturity, discipline, leadership, clean records, physical fitness, and real‑world experience—not that you picked the “perfect” pathway at 16 or 17.
That’s where the military becomes an incredibly strong option, especially if nothing else is pulling you in.
The FBI openly encourages veterans to apply and gives Veterans’ Preference during hiring. Many FBI agents come from the military because the skills translate directly: discipline, teamwork, leadership under pressure, integrity, and the ability to handle stress and responsibility. Military service is not required to join the FBI—but it is absolutely valued and often gives applicants an edge.
Another big advantage is that the military gives you time and clarity. You don’t have to know your entire life plan at 18. You can serve, gain experience, get paid, stay physically fit, and mature—while the FBI minimum age to be hired as a Special Agent is 23 anyway. Many successful agents apply in their late 20s or early 30s after building experience, and the military fits perfectly into that timeline.
If you choose the military, you also don’t have to lock yourself into a narrow role. The FBI recruits veterans from all kinds of specialties—intelligence, cyber, engineering, logistics, accounting, languages, security, and more. You can pick a job that builds skills and keeps your options open, rather than forcing yourself into a college major you don’t care about just to “check a box”.
For high school, this means something important: your “track” does not need to be perfect. Focus on graduating, staying out of trouble, building fitness, and choosing classes that keep doors open (math, writing, critical thinking). You don’t need criminal justice. You don’t need pre‑law. You need options.
If the FBI is the only thing that excites you right now, that’s okay. You’re not failing because nothing else interests you—you’re actually being honest with yourself. The military is one of the few paths that lets you serve, grow, get experience, and keep the FBI goal fully alive, without forcing you to decide everything right now.
That’s where the military becomes an incredibly strong option, especially if nothing else is pulling you in.
The FBI openly encourages veterans to apply and gives Veterans’ Preference during hiring. Many FBI agents come from the military because the skills translate directly: discipline, teamwork, leadership under pressure, integrity, and the ability to handle stress and responsibility. Military service is not required to join the FBI—but it is absolutely valued and often gives applicants an edge.
Another big advantage is that the military gives you time and clarity. You don’t have to know your entire life plan at 18. You can serve, gain experience, get paid, stay physically fit, and mature—while the FBI minimum age to be hired as a Special Agent is 23 anyway. Many successful agents apply in their late 20s or early 30s after building experience, and the military fits perfectly into that timeline.
If you choose the military, you also don’t have to lock yourself into a narrow role. The FBI recruits veterans from all kinds of specialties—intelligence, cyber, engineering, logistics, accounting, languages, security, and more. You can pick a job that builds skills and keeps your options open, rather than forcing yourself into a college major you don’t care about just to “check a box”.
For high school, this means something important: your “track” does not need to be perfect. Focus on graduating, staying out of trouble, building fitness, and choosing classes that keep doors open (math, writing, critical thinking). You don’t need criminal justice. You don’t need pre‑law. You need options.
If the FBI is the only thing that excites you right now, that’s okay. You’re not failing because nothing else interests you—you’re actually being honest with yourself. The military is one of the few paths that lets you serve, grow, get experience, and keep the FBI goal fully alive, without forcing you to decide everything right now.
Roel Ramon
Product Management and Development
91
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Roel’s Answer
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about big decisions for the future. Many people experience this, especially when it seems like you have to choose just one direction. Here are some encouraging tips to help you through this exciting time:
1. Build Transferable Skills
You don't need everything figured out right now. Focus on classes and activities that develop skills useful in many careers, including the FBI:
- Critical thinking and problem-solving (math, science, debate, philosophy)
- Communication (English, writing, speech, foreign languages)
- Teamwork and leadership (sports, clubs, student government)
2. Explore Related Subjects
Even without a specific "FBI Agent" class, you can study subjects that relate to law enforcement or criminal justice:
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Forensics
- Computer Science/Cybersecurity
These can be valuable for college and future applications to agencies like the FBI.
3. Keep Your Options Open
It's perfectly fine not to be 100% sure. Many people change their majors or career interests in college. Choose courses that keep your options open, like general education requirements and introductory classes in different areas.
4. Get Involved Outside the Classroom
Join clubs or organizations that match your interests and help you develop leadership, discipline, and teamwork. Consider:
- Debate club
- Student council
- Scouting
- Volunteer work (especially in public safety, community service, or local law enforcement)
5. Learn About the FBI’s Requirements
The FBI hires people from diverse backgrounds. Some agents studied law, languages, accounting, IT, or science. Visit the official FBI careers page to see what degrees and experiences they value.
6. Talk to Professionals
Reach out to people in the field through informational interviews or career fairs. Ask about their career paths and what they wish they’d known in high school or college.
7. Take Care of Yourself
Stress is common, but don't let it overwhelm you. Talk to family, teachers, or counselors—they can help you understand your feelings and options. Remember, everyone's journey is unique, and it's okay not to have every detail planned out yet.
1. Build Transferable Skills
You don't need everything figured out right now. Focus on classes and activities that develop skills useful in many careers, including the FBI:
- Critical thinking and problem-solving (math, science, debate, philosophy)
- Communication (English, writing, speech, foreign languages)
- Teamwork and leadership (sports, clubs, student government)
2. Explore Related Subjects
Even without a specific "FBI Agent" class, you can study subjects that relate to law enforcement or criminal justice:
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Forensics
- Computer Science/Cybersecurity
These can be valuable for college and future applications to agencies like the FBI.
3. Keep Your Options Open
It's perfectly fine not to be 100% sure. Many people change their majors or career interests in college. Choose courses that keep your options open, like general education requirements and introductory classes in different areas.
4. Get Involved Outside the Classroom
Join clubs or organizations that match your interests and help you develop leadership, discipline, and teamwork. Consider:
- Debate club
- Student council
- Scouting
- Volunteer work (especially in public safety, community service, or local law enforcement)
5. Learn About the FBI’s Requirements
The FBI hires people from diverse backgrounds. Some agents studied law, languages, accounting, IT, or science. Visit the official FBI careers page to see what degrees and experiences they value.
6. Talk to Professionals
Reach out to people in the field through informational interviews or career fairs. Ask about their career paths and what they wish they’d known in high school or college.
7. Take Care of Yourself
Stress is common, but don't let it overwhelm you. Talk to family, teachers, or counselors—they can help you understand your feelings and options. Remember, everyone's journey is unique, and it's okay not to have every detail planned out yet.
Emily Anne
Manager, Technical Support
25
Answers
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hiyee! It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed when making big decisions about your future, especially during high school. Here are some pieces of advice that may help:
1. Explore Broad Options: In high school, it’s okay to keep your options open. Even if you’re set on becoming an FBI agent, choosing classes that develop a range of skills like critical thinking, communication, research & technology.
2. Consider Related Fields: Becoming an FBI agent usually requires a bachelor’s degree & agents come from many educational backgrounds. Fields like criminal justice, psychology, computer science, foreign languages & law are all valuable. Explore these areas to see what might interest you outside of your main goal.
3. Get Involved Outside the Classroom: Join clubs or activities like debate, student government, law enforcement explorer programs, or even sports. Such experiences help you learn leadership, teamwork & discipline, all of which are valuable in law enforcement careers.
4. Do Research: Look up the FBI’s hiring requirements & recommendations. The FBI Careers website has information on what backgrounds are common, so you can see there’s flexibility & guidance. Talk to school counselors or even local law enforcement officers about your interests.
5. Give Yourself Grace: It’s perfectly fine not to have everything figured out now. :) Many people change their minds several times throughout their careers. I have switched 4x! Focus on building a strong academic foundation, developing good habits & exploring your interests.
6. Seek Support: Talk to family, teachers, or a guidance counselor about your interests & worries. They can provide perspective & guidance based on your strengths.
Remember, you don’t need to have your entire life planned by the end of high school. Focus on learning and growing, and your path will become clearer as you gain more experiences. Good luck in your chosen path!
1. Explore Broad Options: In high school, it’s okay to keep your options open. Even if you’re set on becoming an FBI agent, choosing classes that develop a range of skills like critical thinking, communication, research & technology.
2. Consider Related Fields: Becoming an FBI agent usually requires a bachelor’s degree & agents come from many educational backgrounds. Fields like criminal justice, psychology, computer science, foreign languages & law are all valuable. Explore these areas to see what might interest you outside of your main goal.
3. Get Involved Outside the Classroom: Join clubs or activities like debate, student government, law enforcement explorer programs, or even sports. Such experiences help you learn leadership, teamwork & discipline, all of which are valuable in law enforcement careers.
4. Do Research: Look up the FBI’s hiring requirements & recommendations. The FBI Careers website has information on what backgrounds are common, so you can see there’s flexibility & guidance. Talk to school counselors or even local law enforcement officers about your interests.
5. Give Yourself Grace: It’s perfectly fine not to have everything figured out now. :) Many people change their minds several times throughout their careers. I have switched 4x! Focus on building a strong academic foundation, developing good habits & exploring your interests.
6. Seek Support: Talk to family, teachers, or a guidance counselor about your interests & worries. They can provide perspective & guidance based on your strengths.
Remember, you don’t need to have your entire life planned by the end of high school. Focus on learning and growing, and your path will become clearer as you gain more experiences. Good luck in your chosen path!
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
505
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hey Bryleigh!
Feeling like everything depends on one choice is normal, and lots of people feel just like you. Let me give you some advice to help ease the stress.
About Choosing "The Right Path"
You don't have to figure it all out now. Most successful people didn't have it all planned:
People often change their minds, and that's perfectly okay
Your high school path doesn't decide your future forever
College is where many people discover their true interests
Even FBI agents took different paths to get there
Thinking About Becoming an FBI Agent
This is actually great because it gives you options:
FBI agents come from many backgrounds like accounting, IT, linguistics, psychology, and law
Your high school choices matter less than your curiosity and hard work
You have time to see what type of FBI work you like
Questions to Consider:
What excites you about being an FBI agent? (Is it investigation, security, problem-solving, or helping people?)
Once you know, you can look into subjects that match your interests
What You Can Do Now
Choose a broad track to keep your options open if you're unsure
Talk to your school counselor—they can show you how different paths lead to different opportunities
Check out the FBI website to learn about different roles and what they need
Don't stress too much—you can change your mind later, and many people do
The pressure you feel is because you're seeing this as a permanent choice. It's not. This is just one step, not your whole future. You have options, time, and the chance to explore.
You're going to be okay. Take a deep breath. 😊
Feeling like everything depends on one choice is normal, and lots of people feel just like you. Let me give you some advice to help ease the stress.
About Choosing "The Right Path"
You don't have to figure it all out now. Most successful people didn't have it all planned:
People often change their minds, and that's perfectly okay
Your high school path doesn't decide your future forever
College is where many people discover their true interests
Even FBI agents took different paths to get there
Thinking About Becoming an FBI Agent
This is actually great because it gives you options:
FBI agents come from many backgrounds like accounting, IT, linguistics, psychology, and law
Your high school choices matter less than your curiosity and hard work
You have time to see what type of FBI work you like
Questions to Consider:
What excites you about being an FBI agent? (Is it investigation, security, problem-solving, or helping people?)
Once you know, you can look into subjects that match your interests
What You Can Do Now
Choose a broad track to keep your options open if you're unsure
Talk to your school counselor—they can show you how different paths lead to different opportunities
Check out the FBI website to learn about different roles and what they need
Don't stress too much—you can change your mind later, and many people do
The pressure you feel is because you're seeing this as a permanent choice. It's not. This is just one step, not your whole future. You have options, time, and the chance to explore.
You're going to be okay. Take a deep breath. 😊
I love what you said about "what excites you." I think that's a great way to start off finding a career field you're interested in rather than a specific role itself. This way, you have a larger idea of where to start. After you find what field you're interested in you can start narrowing your options down. Again, great advice!
Isaiah
Gloria Rondon
Administration
1
Answer
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Gloria’s Answer
Hello.
First, it is completely normal to feel this way and you certainly are not alone. Even if you did know what you want to study that may change after taking a course or two.
The first question to ask yourself is what part of being an FBI agent excites you? There are many skills that relate to FBI work
Computer Science & Cybersecurity: One of the highest-demand areas due to the rise in cyber warfare and digital crime.
Accounting or Finance: Essential for investigating white-collar crime, money laundering, and terrorist financing. The FBI often looks for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs).
Foreign Languages: Proficiency in critical languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Russian, or Spanish is highly valued for counterintelligence and international investigations.
Law: A Juris Doctor (JD) degree is a traditional path, useful for understanding complex federal regulations and legal frameworks.
STEM Fields: Degrees in engineering, biology, or chemistry are sought after for forensic laboratory work and technical investigative services.
Criminal Justice or Criminology: While common, the FBI notes that these degrees alone may not meet their complex hiring needs unless paired with specialized skills or significant work experience.
I would also suggest trying to get hands-on experience through volunteering with local police departments (patrol or administrative), correctional facilities as mentors or assistants, victim advocate programs, and legal aid organizations.
Breathe and know you are not in this alone!!
First, it is completely normal to feel this way and you certainly are not alone. Even if you did know what you want to study that may change after taking a course or two.
The first question to ask yourself is what part of being an FBI agent excites you? There are many skills that relate to FBI work
Computer Science & Cybersecurity: One of the highest-demand areas due to the rise in cyber warfare and digital crime.
Accounting or Finance: Essential for investigating white-collar crime, money laundering, and terrorist financing. The FBI often looks for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs).
Foreign Languages: Proficiency in critical languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Russian, or Spanish is highly valued for counterintelligence and international investigations.
Law: A Juris Doctor (JD) degree is a traditional path, useful for understanding complex federal regulations and legal frameworks.
STEM Fields: Degrees in engineering, biology, or chemistry are sought after for forensic laboratory work and technical investigative services.
Criminal Justice or Criminology: While common, the FBI notes that these degrees alone may not meet their complex hiring needs unless paired with specialized skills or significant work experience.
I would also suggest trying to get hands-on experience through volunteering with local police departments (patrol or administrative), correctional facilities as mentors or assistants, victim advocate programs, and legal aid organizations.
Breathe and know you are not in this alone!!
Tara Wilkerson
6
Answers
Updated
Tara’s Answer
Hi Bryleigh, I think it is pretty common to not know exactly what you want to do with your life in high school. Many of us have changes in career paths throughout our lives. I think focusing on areas that interest you and that you're passionate about may help you figure it out. For example, I selected Psychology as my major in college and thought I was going to become a therapist, but realized early on in my coursework that I didn't like that career path. After speaking with some of my professors, it was recommended that I may enjoy pursuing Human Resources and I added that on as a minor. If you're interested in being an FBI agent, it may help to take some criminal justice courses. You may discover on your journey that there is a sub-area that interests you that you weren't aware of at the outset. The important thing is to take the next step and if it doesn't work out, pivoting in a different direction is always an option. Best of luck!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2430
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question.
Below are my suggestions :
1. You can start to think about what you have interest first, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. 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 engineer, accountant, financial analyst, banker, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these career 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. You can start to think about what you have interest first, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. 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 engineer, accountant, financial analyst, banker, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these career 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!
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
833
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I swear to you that you have plenty of time to figure out what you’re going to do. I know it feels like there’s a lot of pressure to have the answers now, but the truth is most people into their late 20s still have no clue.
Instead of looking at college and thinking you need to have decisions made, consider that college can be used to explore different things. You can use your first two years to take electives and get your general ED done. At that time, you can still declare a major and then focus on what your career can be.
Take a little of the pressure off yourself and know that you still have time to make decisions about the rest of your life.
Instead of looking at college and thinking you need to have decisions made, consider that college can be used to explore different things. You can use your first two years to take electives and get your general ED done. At that time, you can still declare a major and then focus on what your career can be.
Take a little of the pressure off yourself and know that you still have time to make decisions about the rest of your life.
Marisa Cinelli
HR Manager
12
Answers
Oldsmar, Florida
Updated
Marisa’s Answer
Choosing the right major and career is an exciting journey of discovery. Start by thinking about what you love to do and where your talents shine. Consider taking career or personality tests to see what fields might suit you. Get a taste of different majors by sitting in on classes, chatting with professors, and meeting students in those areas. Try internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering to see what different careers are like. Look into careers related to your interests, checking out job prospects and the skills needed. Talk to career counselors, mentors, and professionals to get their insights. Remember, picking a major or career isn't set in stone; many people change and grow over time. Stay curious, explore your options, and focus on what feels right for you.
Lauren Rossi
Lead Culture and Experience for PwC offices
3
Answers
Lake Orion, Michigan
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
You’re taking the first step of talking about it with others! Kiddos to you!
Sometimes you find your passion where you least expect it and learn about jobs when talking with others. The job I’m in today isn’t the job I started out of college but I chose a company that allowed me to have a few different “jobs” when within that company. I would take some quizzes online on through your career center at school and then look into companies that have a variety of different roles within one place that way you grow with a company even if it’s not staying in your exact job you started. Know not everyday is a perfect one with any job so when you start have that in mind knowing that you will have good days and not good days. Treat your decisions on a quarterly basis vs a weekly one for total happiness! :) seek mentors for gudiance and know anyone is happy to help you!
Sometimes you find your passion where you least expect it and learn about jobs when talking with others. The job I’m in today isn’t the job I started out of college but I chose a company that allowed me to have a few different “jobs” when within that company. I would take some quizzes online on through your career center at school and then look into companies that have a variety of different roles within one place that way you grow with a company even if it’s not staying in your exact job you started. Know not everyday is a perfect one with any job so when you start have that in mind knowing that you will have good days and not good days. Treat your decisions on a quarterly basis vs a weekly one for total happiness! :) seek mentors for gudiance and know anyone is happy to help you!
Sneha Roy
Legal Operations
1
Answer
Thane, Maharashtra, India
Updated
Sneha’s Answer
Hey, first, take a deep breath.
What you are feeling is very normal. You are not late, broken, or confused in a bad way. You are just young and trying to make a big life decision with very little real-world experience. That is hard for anyone.
But the best part is you do not need to decide your whole life right now. You only need to choose a path that keeps your FBI dream possible. And the good news is that the FBI does not require one special degree. They hire people from many fields. What they want is smart, skilled, disciplined people.
So your goal in high school and college should be to build strong skills, not just chase one job.
Let me help you with a proper strategy for now:
1. Pick subjects in High-school that keep all doors open, like
a. Math
b. Science
c. English
d. Computer or Technology
e. Social Studies / Government
Avoid very narrow tracks that limit college options.
2. Once High-school is done, think about degrees that are highly valued by the FBI and also give you great backup careers options like:
a. Computer Science / Cybersecurity
b. Criminal Justice
c. Psychology
d. Accounting
e. Engineering
f. Law
g. Foreign Languages
3. Choose your degree based on what you’re good at:
a. Like computers → Tech
b. Like people → Psychology
c. Like numbers → Accounting
d. Like systems → Engineering
4. Finally, keep in mind that to qualify for FBI, the below things matter the most:
a. Graduate from college
b. Stay out of trouble
c. Stay physically fit
d. Build real skills (writing, tech, analysis, communication)
You are not behind. You already have a clear goal.
Now just choose a smart academic path that keeps that goal alive. Good Luck!
What you are feeling is very normal. You are not late, broken, or confused in a bad way. You are just young and trying to make a big life decision with very little real-world experience. That is hard for anyone.
But the best part is you do not need to decide your whole life right now. You only need to choose a path that keeps your FBI dream possible. And the good news is that the FBI does not require one special degree. They hire people from many fields. What they want is smart, skilled, disciplined people.
So your goal in high school and college should be to build strong skills, not just chase one job.
Let me help you with a proper strategy for now:
1. Pick subjects in High-school that keep all doors open, like
a. Math
b. Science
c. English
d. Computer or Technology
e. Social Studies / Government
Avoid very narrow tracks that limit college options.
2. Once High-school is done, think about degrees that are highly valued by the FBI and also give you great backup careers options like:
a. Computer Science / Cybersecurity
b. Criminal Justice
c. Psychology
d. Accounting
e. Engineering
f. Law
g. Foreign Languages
3. Choose your degree based on what you’re good at:
a. Like computers → Tech
b. Like people → Psychology
c. Like numbers → Accounting
d. Like systems → Engineering
4. Finally, keep in mind that to qualify for FBI, the below things matter the most:
a. Graduate from college
b. Stay out of trouble
c. Stay physically fit
d. Build real skills (writing, tech, analysis, communication)
You are not behind. You already have a clear goal.
Now just choose a smart academic path that keeps that goal alive. Good Luck!
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