9 answers
Bryleigh
Student
Cabot, Arkansas
11
Questions
Asked
1305 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!
9 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
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.
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
494
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
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.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
818
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.
Atul Bhankharia
Sales
498
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.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2397
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!
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!
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!
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