6 answers
Lillian
Student
Bentonville, Arkansas
5
Questions
Updated
843 views
What career fields or opportunities would you recommend for someone who enjoys leadership (I am involved in NJHS and student council), music (choir), sport (volleyball), literature, and service, and who wants to use their talents to positively influence others while staying grounded in strong values and faith?
I’m a driven and creative 8th grader at Founders Classical Academy of Rogers who loves leadership, music, sports, and faith. I serve as Secretary of NJHS, participate in student council and choir, and play volleyball. I aspire to become valedictorian, attend a top university, and build a future where I can lead, inspire others, and honor Jesus through my talents and achievements. In the future, I hope to study Biomedical Engineering, pediatric nursing, pediatric psychology, or marketing. I also enjoy singing, songwriting, and reading.
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6 answers
Steve Sterner
IT Management
60
Answers
Easton, Pennsylvania
Updated
Steve’s Answer
It sounds like you already have an idea what you are interested so I am going to give you my perspective. If you have something you are passionate about use that to guide your studies, and career path. I would not so much focus on specific jobs a much as areas, the world as we know it is ever changing as are you so making very specific plans well into the future (if you are in 8th grade, do not skip years and even only get a Bachelors that is more than 8 years from now) flexibility is important no matter what area you end up in as it helps you survive as you evolve. One of the biggest issues I see some people make is they have a very specific idea of what they want to do and focus so much of their efforts that they identify themselves with their job instead of what value they bring. Always bring value, grow and learn and you would be surprised what opportunities may open up.
Finally it sounds like you have a lot going for you and are involved in a lot of things so I am sure you realize this but just in case, never confuse leadership with a position. I know many leaders that do not have direct reports or a fancy title and I know many people with fancy titles and a ton of reports but are not leaders. Manager have people follow or do things because they have to Leaders get better people to follow them and do things because they want to. I think the biggest leadership lesson I have learned and quality you can have is legitimately care about other people, their growth, their well-being, etc. When people know you are really interested in their growth and well-being you would be surprised how quickly they see you, what you bring to the table and will naturally follow you.
God Bless and follow your heart, you will do great things!!!
Finally it sounds like you have a lot going for you and are involved in a lot of things so I am sure you realize this but just in case, never confuse leadership with a position. I know many leaders that do not have direct reports or a fancy title and I know many people with fancy titles and a ton of reports but are not leaders. Manager have people follow or do things because they have to Leaders get better people to follow them and do things because they want to. I think the biggest leadership lesson I have learned and quality you can have is legitimately care about other people, their growth, their well-being, etc. When people know you are really interested in their growth and well-being you would be surprised how quickly they see you, what you bring to the table and will naturally follow you.
God Bless and follow your heart, you will do great things!!!
I appreciate your support, Steve
Lillian
Mandi Abercrombie
Solutions Partner Liaison
2
Answers
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Updated
Mandi’s Answer
It’s awesome to see how motivated and involved you already are—leadership, sports, music, and faith is a great combination. You’re definitely on a strong path.
One thing I’d really encourage is getting involved in community service. Volunteering is a great way to put your faith into action and make a real impact. You could help with nonprofits, visit residents in nursing homes or hospitals, volunteer at libraries, or mentor younger students. It’s not only meaningful, but it also gives you great life experience and looks really strong on college applications and resumes.
Keep exploring your interests, challenging yourself, and staying grounded in your values. You’re off to a great start—just keep going and enjoy the journey.
One thing I’d really encourage is getting involved in community service. Volunteering is a great way to put your faith into action and make a real impact. You could help with nonprofits, visit residents in nursing homes or hospitals, volunteer at libraries, or mentor younger students. It’s not only meaningful, but it also gives you great life experience and looks really strong on college applications and resumes.
Keep exploring your interests, challenging yourself, and staying grounded in your values. You’re off to a great start—just keep going and enjoy the journey.
Thank you, Mandi for the advice.
Lillian
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
Federal Contract Admin
289
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
There is no shortage of opportunities for leaders. In many cases that is what is required to become an entrepreneur. It is an attribute sorely needed in many areas of society. I suggest you never stop learning, find mentors who you can learn from and model those leadership skills. Learn as much as you can about current and historical leaders that you admire or want to learn more about. Remember selflessness and mindfulness are critical skills to learn. Some rely on stoic philosophy to ground decision making and other rely on other sources of knowledge. Good luck, you will do well.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Lillian
Jonathan Panczak
Digital Identity Services
2
Answers
Cheektowaga, NY
Updated
Jonathan’s Answer
As Steve Sterner pointed out, leadership isn't about having a specific job or title. You can lead from anywhere.
Leadership, like faith, is something you carry with you no matter where you are or what you're doing.
In terms of your career, the world is full of possibilities! You have so many exciting choices ahead of you. Think about what interests you. For example, whether or not you're a fan, Taylor Swift inspires many through her music and business skills. Or consider how a good book can bring you joy—an author made that happen.
I suggest staying open to opportunities and trying new things. Take on challenges, even if they seem daunting. Don't fear failure; it's a chance to learn and lead by example. Always be ready to learn and adapt. Whether you're in 8th grade or well into your career, keep looking for ways to grow. The world is always changing, and those who adapt are often the ones who succeed.
Best wishes on your journey ahead!
Leadership, like faith, is something you carry with you no matter where you are or what you're doing.
In terms of your career, the world is full of possibilities! You have so many exciting choices ahead of you. Think about what interests you. For example, whether or not you're a fan, Taylor Swift inspires many through her music and business skills. Or consider how a good book can bring you joy—an author made that happen.
I suggest staying open to opportunities and trying new things. Take on challenges, even if they seem daunting. Don't fear failure; it's a chance to learn and lead by example. Always be ready to learn and adapt. Whether you're in 8th grade or well into your career, keep looking for ways to grow. The world is always changing, and those who adapt are often the ones who succeed.
Best wishes on your journey ahead!
Thanks for the help.
Lillian
John Graham
Music Producer
90
Answers
Bremerton, Washington
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Lillian!
It sounds like you already have a very full life, and lots of activities going on. I agree with Steve that at this stage and for the next several years it's important to try lots of things and not limit yourself. Keep your options open and life will narrow things down for you as you go. It's perfectly OK to have lots of areas of interest at this point and to learn all you can.
As an illustration, when I was in 8th, I was in Orchestra, using my piano, organ, guitar, drums, and music theory training that started when I was 5yo. By 10th grade, I was in Concert Choir and Madrigals, learning how to improve my voice. In 11th grade I started playing in bands in town and working as a restaurant musician and church organist. I was really focused on a career as a musician because it gives me such joy. I went to college and got an Arts degree, but then I was drafted into the military, got married and had a family, and wound up staying in the Navy for 30 years, during which time I got an MS in Business Management, but always keeping music going as a sideline. When I got out of the Service, I was finally able to do music full time and support myself from my military retirement - and I'm the happiest I've ever been.
My point is regardless of what areas interest you today and the goals you set, you may be drawn in different directions by the circumstances of your life. I'm so glad you mentioned that you're grounded in your faith and strong values. In my case, that was key to finding the right life partner and staying centered and open to God's will in our lives. No matter what field you choose, there will always be leadership and service opportunities. And you can do sports as long as you're physically able and make the time.
Best wishes on your journey - you're going to do great!
P.S. One more life story: Last fall there were two major earthquakes (7.4 / 6.8) back to back in the Philippines followed by two Category 5 Super Typhoons with 180 mph winds that devastated whole regions, especially the eastern island of Samar which is the first to get clobbered by major storms there. Over 15 million people needed humanitarian assistance. My wife & I have been helping a group ministry there in Calbayog City who have been providing relief supplies, clothing, and food to those who were badly hit and are still recovering from major wind and flood damage, especially those in isolated villages in the mountains. One of the leaders heard that I was a producer and referred two young students from their church to me as possible vocalists. After hearing their voices I've been working two songs for them - Always On Time (which was just released on all the streaming services with Aimee Rain Montes), and Worthy - which are their favorites. So you never know when your knowledge or talents may be called into use - and it's good to be open to receiving and responding to those opportunities.
It sounds like you already have a very full life, and lots of activities going on. I agree with Steve that at this stage and for the next several years it's important to try lots of things and not limit yourself. Keep your options open and life will narrow things down for you as you go. It's perfectly OK to have lots of areas of interest at this point and to learn all you can.
As an illustration, when I was in 8th, I was in Orchestra, using my piano, organ, guitar, drums, and music theory training that started when I was 5yo. By 10th grade, I was in Concert Choir and Madrigals, learning how to improve my voice. In 11th grade I started playing in bands in town and working as a restaurant musician and church organist. I was really focused on a career as a musician because it gives me such joy. I went to college and got an Arts degree, but then I was drafted into the military, got married and had a family, and wound up staying in the Navy for 30 years, during which time I got an MS in Business Management, but always keeping music going as a sideline. When I got out of the Service, I was finally able to do music full time and support myself from my military retirement - and I'm the happiest I've ever been.
My point is regardless of what areas interest you today and the goals you set, you may be drawn in different directions by the circumstances of your life. I'm so glad you mentioned that you're grounded in your faith and strong values. In my case, that was key to finding the right life partner and staying centered and open to God's will in our lives. No matter what field you choose, there will always be leadership and service opportunities. And you can do sports as long as you're physically able and make the time.
Best wishes on your journey - you're going to do great!
P.S. One more life story: Last fall there were two major earthquakes (7.4 / 6.8) back to back in the Philippines followed by two Category 5 Super Typhoons with 180 mph winds that devastated whole regions, especially the eastern island of Samar which is the first to get clobbered by major storms there. Over 15 million people needed humanitarian assistance. My wife & I have been helping a group ministry there in Calbayog City who have been providing relief supplies, clothing, and food to those who were badly hit and are still recovering from major wind and flood damage, especially those in isolated villages in the mountains. One of the leaders heard that I was a producer and referred two young students from their church to me as possible vocalists. After hearing their voices I've been working two songs for them - Always On Time (which was just released on all the streaming services with Aimee Rain Montes), and Worthy - which are their favorites. So you never know when your knowledge or talents may be called into use - and it's good to be open to receiving and responding to those opportunities.
Thanks for the help.
Lillian
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1376
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Lillian,
You have a really strong mix of interests because they all point toward something bigger: you enjoy leading, connecting with people, creating, and helping others grow. At your age, you do not need to narrow yourself down too quickly. The goal right now is to notice the kinds of work that keep showing up across your interests.
Based on what you shared, careers connected to leadership and service could fit you very well. Pediatric psychology or pediatric nursing would allow you to support children directly while combining compassion, communication, and science. Biomedical engineering could fit if you enjoy problem-solving and want to improve healthcare in a more technical way. Marketing and communications could also work well because leadership, creativity, storytelling, and understanding people are all important there.
Your involvement in choir, songwriting, and literature also tells me you likely enjoy expression and encouraging others emotionally. That could connect well to counseling, teaching, public speaking, nonprofit leadership, ministry, or advocacy work in the future.
One thing I would encourage you to do is keep exploring instead of feeling pressure to “pick the perfect career” right now. Continue taking challenging classes, staying involved in activities you genuinely enjoy, and trying new experiences. The students who grow into strong leaders are usually the ones who stay curious and consistent over time.
Your faith can also remain part of your future no matter which career path you choose. You do not have to work in ministry to positively influence people. Kindness, integrity, discipline, leadership, and the way you treat others can have a huge impact in any field. You already sound thoughtful, motivated, and grounded. Keep developing your skills, protecting your values, and giving yourself room to grow. You have time to discover which path fits you best.
Best wishes!
You have a really strong mix of interests because they all point toward something bigger: you enjoy leading, connecting with people, creating, and helping others grow. At your age, you do not need to narrow yourself down too quickly. The goal right now is to notice the kinds of work that keep showing up across your interests.
Based on what you shared, careers connected to leadership and service could fit you very well. Pediatric psychology or pediatric nursing would allow you to support children directly while combining compassion, communication, and science. Biomedical engineering could fit if you enjoy problem-solving and want to improve healthcare in a more technical way. Marketing and communications could also work well because leadership, creativity, storytelling, and understanding people are all important there.
Your involvement in choir, songwriting, and literature also tells me you likely enjoy expression and encouraging others emotionally. That could connect well to counseling, teaching, public speaking, nonprofit leadership, ministry, or advocacy work in the future.
One thing I would encourage you to do is keep exploring instead of feeling pressure to “pick the perfect career” right now. Continue taking challenging classes, staying involved in activities you genuinely enjoy, and trying new experiences. The students who grow into strong leaders are usually the ones who stay curious and consistent over time.
Your faith can also remain part of your future no matter which career path you choose. You do not have to work in ministry to positively influence people. Kindness, integrity, discipline, leadership, and the way you treat others can have a huge impact in any field. You already sound thoughtful, motivated, and grounded. Keep developing your skills, protecting your values, and giving yourself room to grow. You have time to discover which path fits you best.
Best wishes!