Janica
How do I pick a major + minor when every option seems like it won’t be sustainable financially, nor for who I am as a person?
I’m a 17 year old junior, and I’m strugglng to make a decision.
I’d love a career that allows me to continue engaging with my interests (art, history, fashion, biology), that allows me to play a primarily supportive role in the execution of a project I care about, and allows me to help people, in some way. Though I’d probably be able to find some enjoyment in any job, I think these aspects are what would bring me the most personal fufillment.
This has led me down the road of the GLAM sector, and so far, I love the idea of it. Aiding in the presevation and accessibility of knowledge? Cataloging, organizing, and managing records, items, and complicated but pretty structured systems? Researching for and designing exhibitions? What a dream it would be!
Unfortunately, like a lot of fields meant to be in service of the people, it just doesn’t make good money. Despite knowing I’d love the job and the work I would do, I’m just not sure if I want to make myself go through that, especially with the current state of the world. It feels kinda selfish that I don’t want to waste my life away in a job I can’t stand, but I also don’t want to live paycheck to paycheck for the rest of my life.
My family is very much comfortable in my home country—I’ve truly never worried about finances here—but I am very sure that I’ll be studying abroad, and I am accutely aware that I won’t have economic support to the level that I’m used to. On top of the money troubles, I know the field is highly competitive and high-pressure, that it’s incredibly difficult to get into without connections, and that I’ll almost definitely go into debt to get the education most positions need.
I would pivot, but I feel as if I’m too far in. My subjects, extracurriculars, and life has been built around this one thread, how am I meant to cut it and start anew? All other roads lead to careers that I feel so unsure about, or require skills I feel I’m too late to pick up. While I can learn to navigate and use a database, I’m still not very good with computers, or people, or chemistry. I don’t have any spark of entrepreneurship. I have a tiny interest in medicine, but I don’t think I could handle the responsibilty; someone losing their life because I made a mistake terrifies me.
Sorry for the rant! D: But that leads me back to my original question, how do I pick a path when everything feels like a dead end? Every compromise makes me feel insane, because it just feels like I’m walking in circles and running into the same problems. It never feels like I’m actually reaching a middle ground, where I won’t be constantly worried about bills AND still actually like my job.
Maybe this is just some character flaw I need to work through? Maybe I just need to be more adaptable, more willing to take risks and slum it. Maybe I just need to expand my horizons and look for more options? But I don’t know anymore. Should I just look for a major that gets me a corporate job and have the personally fufilling things as a minor and side job? What jobs does “corporate” even include? Do I look for an integrated degree? Should I just go into like archiving or digital cataloging?
Again, I’m SO sorry for this behemoth of a question! I’m just genuinely at my wit’s end. If anyone could provide any words of wisdom, it would be greatly appreciated! :D
3 answers
Martha D. Kramer
Martha D.’s Answer
Second, depending upon how strictly you define GLAM, you may not have to pivot at all. Yes, museum jobs can be difficult to get and often don't pay great. But as the baby boomers continue to retire, they will need new workers. Also, at least in the US, there are arts commissions at the city, state, and federal levels that pay better. Many colleges and universities have art and/or science museums that need curators. If not, they may need archivists for library collections which may include gorgeous old books. If you are interested, there are jobs in policy organizations that promote the arts, like The National Trust for Historic Preservation in the US. I know all this because of my child's professional journey.
I hope this helps and wish you good luck!
It’s easy to catastrophize and forget that, in the grand scheme of things, I’m really not very old at all. Thank you for the reminder haha! I hope that later in life, I’ll be able to pivot when necessary too. :D
I’ve not really considered college/university museums or libraries before! It really should have occurred to me earlier. And I plan to study in the US, so I’ll look into the organisation you mentioned. The job listings seem to have a lot of variety and do look really interesting!
Still, I cannot shake the knowledge of how challenging a career in this field will be. Perhaps I’ll look into courses that prioritise skills that are helpful for GLAM, but are also easily transferable?
Thank you so much again! This has been really helpful advice and of much reassurance! :D
Janica
So glad you are re-assured; that is my intent. All the best to you!
Martha D. Kramer
James White
James’s Answer
As someone who regularly works with teenagers on their career plans, I want to assure you that your inquiry is not a character flaw. Your question reflects insight and awareness that I actually attempt to spark in the vast majority of students with whom I work.
In looking forward, a healthy dose of fear and confusion can help lead you to develop the resilience and flexibility required in the current global economy.
BE PREPARED, NOT SCARED!
Don't succumb to a soul-sucking series of jobs. Build a career that balances your interest and aptitudes with a sustainable lifestyle. I make less money than I did 20 years ago but I am much more fulfilled now.
If you know that your desired career doesn't pay much, don't build up debt for your degree. Build up your portfolio and network with actual experience and relationships. People like helping people who are actively and humbly seeking help and experience. Don't buy into the need to buy credentials and connections by going to a more expensive school for their reputation. Build value for your life and career and for the mentors and employers in which you invest.
I felt kinda silly asking this question, so I’m glad to hear that’s not quite the case haha! From what I understand, I should focus more on the little, easier-to-actually-do-something-about things? Focus less on the degree (especially since I know the debt will outweigh the pay) and career salary, and more on what I can learn and do to help building my portfolio, skills, and relationships. That last part sounds like what actually matters when getting a job that isn’t mind-numbing, while still being sustainable haha! I’ll be keeping “be prepared, not scared” in mind for the future. Thank you so much for this response! I think the path I want to take is a little clearer because of it! :D
Janica
Hearing that "Be prepared, not scared!" helps you brings a smile to my face and joy to my heart.
I try to get my students to understand what they truly value and why BEFORE they make the commitments.
Given the many variables that you will face on your life journey, before making any commitment, ask yourself whether future you will be appreciative or regretful of the decisions and commitments that current you is making. Opportunity COSTS! Consider the tradeoffs that each decision WILL (not may) have. If you don't know how much you value someone/something, imagine trading something else you want for it. Be truthful with yourself!!!!
Be prepared, not scared!
JW
James White
Trevon Henry
Trevon’s Answer
You might feel stuck choosing between a creative job and a stable one, but there's a big middle ground. Your love for cataloging and managing systems is valuable in fields like Information Science or Digital Asset Management. Many companies and organizations need these skills to manage their archives and data, offering both stability and fulfillment.
Consider studying Information Science or Public Administration with a minor in Art History or Biology. This combination can open doors to various sectors while letting you pursue your interests. For example, someone with this background could work in medical archiving or research coordination, blending practicality with passion.
If you're worried about moving abroad and losing financial security, remember that corporate roles can be diverse. Positions like Project Coordinator or Registrar focus on organization and support, not high-pressure competition. These roles exist in museums and international organizations, offering stability and good benefits.
Wanting a meaningful and stable life shows maturity. You don't have to be an entrepreneur or a tech expert to succeed. These skills will develop over time. Instead of starting over, think about how you can weave your interests into a fulfilling career. You have time to build a life that reflects who you are and what you love. Take a deep breath and know you can create a sustainable, true-to-you path.