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What was the turning point in your life that made you realize that this was the career you wanted to pursue?
Just a small reflection of your experience!
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45 answers
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Roger’s Answer
When I started college, I didn’t have everything figured out. I was taking general studies and experimenting with different subjects—computer-aided drafting, psychology, and electronics—just trying to see what clicked.
The turning point came in a pretty unexpected way. The computers in our lab would break fairly often, and no one really knew how to fix them. One day, I decided to take a shot at figuring it out myself. I was able to get them working again—and not only did that feel great, I realized I genuinely enjoyed the challenge. Before long, I became the “go-to” person in class whenever something wasn’t working.
That experience led me to an opportunity with a computer manufacturer. There, I started at the ground level, learning how to build computers from scratch. As I worked, I began to understand how each subsystem functioned and how everything connected. I loved it—and I worked hard at it—so I quickly moved into more advanced work, even down to repairing systems at the component level.
From there, my curiosity just kept growing. I started learning about operating systems, then networking, and eventually coding. What stood out to me was that each new area was just as fascinating as the last. I found myself wanting to learn more all the time, often going beyond what was required.
The biggest sign I was on the right path was that it never felt like work—it felt fun. I enjoyed digging into problems, learning how things worked, and talking about these topics in depth. Over time, I realized I was developing a level of understanding that set me apart, and I was consistently pushing myself to grow.
That’s when it clicked for me: this wasn’t just something I was good at—it was something I truly enjoyed and could see myself doing long-term. That’s when I knew technology was the right career for me.
The turning point came in a pretty unexpected way. The computers in our lab would break fairly often, and no one really knew how to fix them. One day, I decided to take a shot at figuring it out myself. I was able to get them working again—and not only did that feel great, I realized I genuinely enjoyed the challenge. Before long, I became the “go-to” person in class whenever something wasn’t working.
That experience led me to an opportunity with a computer manufacturer. There, I started at the ground level, learning how to build computers from scratch. As I worked, I began to understand how each subsystem functioned and how everything connected. I loved it—and I worked hard at it—so I quickly moved into more advanced work, even down to repairing systems at the component level.
From there, my curiosity just kept growing. I started learning about operating systems, then networking, and eventually coding. What stood out to me was that each new area was just as fascinating as the last. I found myself wanting to learn more all the time, often going beyond what was required.
The biggest sign I was on the right path was that it never felt like work—it felt fun. I enjoyed digging into problems, learning how things worked, and talking about these topics in depth. Over time, I realized I was developing a level of understanding that set me apart, and I was consistently pushing myself to grow.
That’s when it clicked for me: this wasn’t just something I was good at—it was something I truly enjoyed and could see myself doing long-term. That’s when I knew technology was the right career for me.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
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Paul’s Answer
Hi Charles:
I believe the turning point for me was when I witnessed the very first group of students, I had mentored, walk across the graduation stage to accept their diplomas
This was a life-altering realization, because several of those graduating individuals had previously been dismissed, by others, as having no academic skills or future.
Seeing them overcome those doubts, graduate, and transition into successful careers served as concrete proof of the power of patience, industriousness, and proactive support.
It was at that exact moment that I knew that I was in the right career field.
Following this realization, I developed a core philosophy, regarding professional fulfillment, that I frequently share on professional advice platforms and in the classroom. These include:
#1. The “No Pay" Rule: True career alignment means finding work that you love so much that you would do it even if you weren't paid.
#2. The Natural Drive: Being in the right career means you cannot wait to get into the office every morning and are naturally the last to leave.
#3. The Service Over Salary: Choosing a path should be dictated by a deep connection and passion for the subject matter rather than just a race for the highest salary.
I hope this has been helpful for you. Best of luck in achieving your future goals.
I believe the turning point for me was when I witnessed the very first group of students, I had mentored, walk across the graduation stage to accept their diplomas
This was a life-altering realization, because several of those graduating individuals had previously been dismissed, by others, as having no academic skills or future.
Seeing them overcome those doubts, graduate, and transition into successful careers served as concrete proof of the power of patience, industriousness, and proactive support.
It was at that exact moment that I knew that I was in the right career field.
Following this realization, I developed a core philosophy, regarding professional fulfillment, that I frequently share on professional advice platforms and in the classroom. These include:
#1. The “No Pay" Rule: True career alignment means finding work that you love so much that you would do it even if you weren't paid.
#2. The Natural Drive: Being in the right career means you cannot wait to get into the office every morning and are naturally the last to leave.
#3. The Service Over Salary: Choosing a path should be dictated by a deep connection and passion for the subject matter rather than just a race for the highest salary.
I hope this has been helpful for you. Best of luck in achieving your future goals.
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Vianne’s Answer
I work in social services. My turning point came when I saw how important it is for someone to feel truly heard and supported during tough times. I learned that compassion, patience, and simply being there can make a big difference, especially when someone feels alone or lost. This inspired me to work in a field where I could help others feel less isolated and make a positive impact on their healing journey.
I also realized that I deeply value empathy and connection. I've always wanted to understand people's experiences and help them feel accepted without judgment. This career appealed to me because it combines compassion with meaningful support, and each interaction can remind someone that they deserve care and understanding.
I also realized that I deeply value empathy and connection. I've always wanted to understand people's experiences and help them feel accepted without judgment. This career appealed to me because it combines compassion with meaningful support, and each interaction can remind someone that they deserve care and understanding.
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Tim’s Answer
Choosing a career is a big decision, and while I can't pinpoint one exact moment, several factors guided me. I graduated with a degree in Accounting and have been working in Audit at Deloitte since 2022.
Here are some reasons why I chose this path:
1) Accounting is stable even during tough economic times. If you're exploring career options, this is something important to keep in mind.
2) There's expected growth in Accounting jobs. It's good to consider where a career might lead, especially with the rise of AI in many fields today.
3) I found the coursework understandable and could easily apply what I learned in class to my homework and exams.
The third reason was probably the most significant for me. I was drawn to the business world, and it was a bonus that Accounting came naturally to me compared to other subjects. I hope this insight is helpful to you!
Here are some reasons why I chose this path:
1) Accounting is stable even during tough economic times. If you're exploring career options, this is something important to keep in mind.
2) There's expected growth in Accounting jobs. It's good to consider where a career might lead, especially with the rise of AI in many fields today.
3) I found the coursework understandable and could easily apply what I learned in class to my homework and exams.
The third reason was probably the most significant for me. I was drawn to the business world, and it was a bonus that Accounting came naturally to me compared to other subjects. I hope this insight is helpful to you!
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Niya’s Answer
That's a fantastic question! When I started college, I chose to major in accounting. I loved math and wanted to learn more about managing finances, especially since financial literacy wasn't common in my community. Plus, the idea of job security and a stable income was appealing.
Even though I enjoyed my classes, something felt missing. I wasn't sure if this was the right career for me. So, at the start of my sophomore year, I took a career class to explore my options and find a path that truly matched my interests and who I am.
In that class, I took various quizzes and tests to see which careers might suit me best. I discovered a strong connection with the tech field. That same year, I took my first computer science class and fell in love with coding. Now, I'm thrilled to work as an IT Analyst at Deloitte, my dream company!
Even though I enjoyed my classes, something felt missing. I wasn't sure if this was the right career for me. So, at the start of my sophomore year, I took a career class to explore my options and find a path that truly matched my interests and who I am.
In that class, I took various quizzes and tests to see which careers might suit me best. I discovered a strong connection with the tech field. That same year, I took my first computer science class and fell in love with coding. Now, I'm thrilled to work as an IT Analyst at Deloitte, my dream company!
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Dylan’s Answer
This might be a bit of a cliche, but my turning point came in the form of my brother.
He pursued Computer Science after leaving home and during his visits, he would show me all the interesting projects he'd work on.
I was always interesting in Technology, more hardware at the time, but seeing him create all these cool apps and explaining how it all worked and the challenges he faced when creating them really targeted the problem-solving part of my brain and I knew from then that I wanted a career in building software solutions.
However, it is safe to say that it is not everyone's cup of tea so before fully committing to it, I tinkered around developing projects of my own; I got a Raspberry Pi and did simple projects making a tiny lightbulb turn on when a button was pressed, created a Pacman clone from scratch, etc. I think going through the implementation of those small project really solidified the idea that this would be my career path.
Explore your passions. I cannot stress enough how much work does not feel like work when you're doing what you love.
He pursued Computer Science after leaving home and during his visits, he would show me all the interesting projects he'd work on.
I was always interesting in Technology, more hardware at the time, but seeing him create all these cool apps and explaining how it all worked and the challenges he faced when creating them really targeted the problem-solving part of my brain and I knew from then that I wanted a career in building software solutions.
However, it is safe to say that it is not everyone's cup of tea so before fully committing to it, I tinkered around developing projects of my own; I got a Raspberry Pi and did simple projects making a tiny lightbulb turn on when a button was pressed, created a Pacman clone from scratch, etc. I think going through the implementation of those small project really solidified the idea that this would be my career path.
Dylan recommends the following next steps:
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Citi’s Answer
- I got an opportunity to work on a collaboration hosting meetings with seniors where the big picture should be impact of what we do even if it’s small.
- Being at a job where I performed various roles by saying yes to all opportunities, I ended up being stuck with one of those that I didn’t enjoy. I developed that one skill that I enjoyed as much as I could and then got a full time role doing it
- I didn't have a single moment where I knew with certainty. It was more a series of experiences where I found myself genuinely enjoying financial analysis, solving complex problems, and learning about markets. Over time, I realized I was excited to come to work and keep developing those skills, which told me I had found a career that fit me
- Finding the common thread through all my jobs helped. Fail first to succeed farther!
- Being at a job where I performed various roles by saying yes to all opportunities, I ended up being stuck with one of those that I didn’t enjoy. I developed that one skill that I enjoyed as much as I could and then got a full time role doing it
- I didn't have a single moment where I knew with certainty. It was more a series of experiences where I found myself genuinely enjoying financial analysis, solving complex problems, and learning about markets. Over time, I realized I was excited to come to work and keep developing those skills, which told me I had found a career that fit me
- Finding the common thread through all my jobs helped. Fail first to succeed farther!
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Jason’s Answer
After trying a few different patches, I volunteered at ucla medical center, tried banking before going into Conuslting a the key is to try a few, you get different experiences.
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Preetham’s Answer
comes more from educational background that enables to satisfactorily do the job, plus the market trend at that point of time plus biggest of all is your dreams if you had any growing up...
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Citi’s Answer
I wasn’t 100% sure I would go into HR but I remember taking a class in college that gave me an overview of various careers with a Psychology degree and one jumped off the page explaining Organizational Pyschology which sounded very interesting. I decided to pursue it and went to graduate school. It wasn’t what I thought I’d be doing originally but sometimes you just don’t know what you don’t know and let things come to you.
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Viraj’s Answer
A major turning point for me came during and after graduation, when I was doing internships and going through interviews. As a candidate, I often felt curious and nervous about how decisions were made by employers. This curiosity led me to learn more about Human Resources and how companies assess and develop talent. Over time, I discovered a real passion for working with people, improving processes, and creating a positive experience for candidates. This interest grew into a desire to work in Human Resources, where I could help shape these experiences and guide others in their careers.
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Bereket (Bek)’s Answer
The turning point came when I was working in civil and environmental engineering, originally drawn by my love for physics and its prestige (in my home country). While in that field, I began writing programs to solve engineering problems, and that sparked a passion I hadn’t experienced before. When I lost my first (after moving to USA) engineering role, it gave me the freedom to pivot. I fully transitioned into software development, where I not only found my career passion, but also realized it gave me new tools to solve complex problems—including those I once saw in engineering. That’s when I knew software development was the career I was meant to pursue.
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Citi’s Answer
It was a slow journey for me rather than a single turning point. I originally wanted to be a doctor, but after taking a course in psychology i was more interested in that, and that turned into a graduate degree in industrial organizational psychology. That degree prepared me best for consulting or general HR work, but after failing to find a good role i ended up in Compensation thinking it would be a good foot in the door for a wider HR role. I ended up liking the compensation work much more than i thought and ive been working in that department ever since. Regardless of how long it takes, i would advise anyone to keep an open mind and pursue what interests you at any given time. Don't feel pigeonholed into any one thing, careers are about growth and change.
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Peter’s Answer
I've been fascinated with computers since I first saw them in school, so I always knew I wanted to do something with them since that time. My advice to you is to pursue and do what you love, and to explore to figure out what that is. Following your passion will take you to where you want to be, because you will be doing what you love.
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Nancy’s Answer
Hello,
I my case I volunteered and completed internships with several organizations I order to get experience. I made LinkefIn a daily part of my searches and set job alerts too!
Good luck!
I my case I volunteered and completed internships with several organizations I order to get experience. I made LinkefIn a daily part of my searches and set job alerts too!
Good luck!
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Tanisha’s Answer
My interest in healthcare IT began during an internship with the police department’s IT team, where I developed a passion for technology. Later, I heard from a professional in one of my classes involved in implementing an electronic health record system which inspired me to pursue a similar path in healthcare.
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Reed’s Answer
At 31, I will be going back to school this fall to make a career pivot. So I am still figuring out exactly what career I want to pursue. In high school and college, I pursued mathematics and economics. That led me into consulting which allowed me to build quantitative skills and problem solving skills. I am interested in using those same skills towards a career in management, marketing, or corporate strategy. But for me, there has never been a specific turning point. It is a consistent effort to align where you are and where you want to be, and a question I am still figuring out. To me, it is not something that you can solve overnight or figure out in a moment. Just stay the course and continue to be BETTY. Better Today Than Yesterday.
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Lake G.’s Answer
The turning point in my life happened when I was finishing high school. I was a science student and wanted to become a doctor. However, while choosing university courses, a talk with a childhood friend changed my path. He mentioned his older brother, an accountant, which piqued my interest in accounting. My friend suggested we explore social sciences like Accounting and Economics, as there were good opportunities in those fields. Inspired by his brother's career, we decided to switch. I chose Accounting, and my friend picked Economics. Today, he's a professor (PHD) in Australia, and I've completed my BA in Accounting, ACCA, MBA, and other certifications, including in AI. I joined Deloitte, a top firm, and now work as a consultant in the USA. Looking back, I'm happy with my choice. A simple chat with a friend shaped my future.
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Michelle’s Answer
I don't think there was ever a single turning point for me. Instead, there were several changes In direction that led me to my current career path.
When I started about in college, I wasn't sure what I wanted to pursue. Accounting was not my first major, but it did feel like the best fit when I landed there. The courses made sense and there were a lot of great opportunities available in the field . Once I started recruiting , I enjoyed the different types of career paths that were available to me and have continued to enjoy the career and opportunities that the decision has brought me.
Sometimes you have to try many areas to figure out where your strengths lie and what energizes you. Finding out what you don't like can be just as important as finding what you do like. This may change over your life / career so it's important to remember that you can always change course and realign.
When I started about in college, I wasn't sure what I wanted to pursue. Accounting was not my first major, but it did feel like the best fit when I landed there. The courses made sense and there were a lot of great opportunities available in the field . Once I started recruiting , I enjoyed the different types of career paths that were available to me and have continued to enjoy the career and opportunities that the decision has brought me.
Sometimes you have to try many areas to figure out where your strengths lie and what energizes you. Finding out what you don't like can be just as important as finding what you do like. This may change over your life / career so it's important to remember that you can always change course and realign.
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Shankar’s Answer
Early in my career, I took a job that seemed perfect on paper. It was with a good company, I had my CPA, and it seemed like a great fit. But after a few months, I realized something wasn't right. I wasn't bad at the job, but it just didn't feel like it was for me. I stayed longer than I should have because there's a lot of pressure to make things work, especially after earning your CPA. You feel like you owe it to yourself to keep going. But eventually, I had to admit that I was just going through the motions. Leaving felt like a failure at the time.
That's when everything changed. I stopped worrying about what a CPA should do and started focusing on what truly interested me. I thought about the problems I enjoyed solving and where I felt most like myself. This led me to Finance Transformation. It wasn't a grand plan, just a moment of clarity after feeling stuck.
So if you're unsure about your path, that's okay. Sometimes the wrong job teaches you more about yourself than the right one ever could.
That's when everything changed. I stopped worrying about what a CPA should do and started focusing on what truly interested me. I thought about the problems I enjoyed solving and where I felt most like myself. This led me to Finance Transformation. It wasn't a grand plan, just a moment of clarity after feeling stuck.
So if you're unsure about your path, that's okay. Sometimes the wrong job teaches you more about yourself than the right one ever could.
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Josh’s Answer
I've been working in communications for over a decade, specifically in working with companies to implement key changes in how their employees perform their jobs. This type of work can be uniquely challenging, in part because the concept of "communications" is so broad that some leaders feel they can communicate without any coaching, polish, etc. Just because the act of communicating seems easy doesn't make it so, a lesson I've learned (and seen demonstrated by others) time and time again.
When I first started in this specific subset of communications, I was essentially diving into the deep end of the pool. I worked for a major university that was updating its financial software and needed to tell its employees (staff members and faculty) how to navigate this new tool. While I worked for the division that was updating the software, the team of people who had to write every message and craft key trainings was a team of one: me. The moment when everything clicked for me and gave me a sense of the value of the work I was creating was relatively simple: I was talking to an employee who showed me a dog-eared and heavily used double-sided tri-fold brochure.
That brochure was designed to serve as a set of step-by-step instructions for a series of major tasks: how to submit expense reports, how to request travel, how to approve reports, etc. It was very text-heavy, and I imagine if I looked at it today, I'd want to overhaul it entirely. But in that moment, I flashed back to how much time I had spent on the tiniest details to ensure all of the key tasks could be captured in such a small space. I remember vividly two things: 1) in the process of building this brochure, all but driving myself crazy to get it *just right*, I thought, "Is anyone ever going to care about this once it's available?" 2) the sense of unexpected pride that people were leveraging this brochure months later.
That occurred a while ago, but it's moments like this that keep me going, and made me realize this work (while exhausting) can have an unspoken impact on so many people.
When I first started in this specific subset of communications, I was essentially diving into the deep end of the pool. I worked for a major university that was updating its financial software and needed to tell its employees (staff members and faculty) how to navigate this new tool. While I worked for the division that was updating the software, the team of people who had to write every message and craft key trainings was a team of one: me. The moment when everything clicked for me and gave me a sense of the value of the work I was creating was relatively simple: I was talking to an employee who showed me a dog-eared and heavily used double-sided tri-fold brochure.
That brochure was designed to serve as a set of step-by-step instructions for a series of major tasks: how to submit expense reports, how to request travel, how to approve reports, etc. It was very text-heavy, and I imagine if I looked at it today, I'd want to overhaul it entirely. But in that moment, I flashed back to how much time I had spent on the tiniest details to ensure all of the key tasks could be captured in such a small space. I remember vividly two things: 1) in the process of building this brochure, all but driving myself crazy to get it *just right*, I thought, "Is anyone ever going to care about this once it's available?" 2) the sense of unexpected pride that people were leveraging this brochure months later.
That occurred a while ago, but it's moments like this that keep me going, and made me realize this work (while exhausting) can have an unspoken impact on so many people.
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Citi’s Answer
- "For me, I pursue the career that I think I can apply my best hard and soft skills. So the turning point was probably during the internship I did after I graduated, and saw how I could continue learning new things and complete a project end to end by myself with the support from colleagues and my mentor. "
- "I honestly fell into my career after interning for two summers. I quickly realized that my internships were a reflection of what my future would look like and that was the realization I had. So I did what everyone would which was go network and find a career path where work life balance and the skills I’d learn would be of interest to me."
- "I honestly fell into my career after interning for two summers. I quickly realized that my internships were a reflection of what my future would look like and that was the realization I had. So I did what everyone would which was go network and find a career path where work life balance and the skills I’d learn would be of interest to me."
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Mahak’s Answer
I was pursing a totally opposite career and had the fortunate opportunity to gain some experience in that field. While working there I had started working on some issues the team had on their application. Turns out I enjoyed trouble shooting the application issues, rather then doing the work. It solidified for me to go into Application support.
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Citi’s Answer
Finance was always present in my life, either through media or being surrounded by finance professionals. Arguably, it’s also one of the most important aspects of our life. After all, how does one invest in emerging technologies or borrow funds to pay for a house? I think identifying how important this field was at a young age made me want to work in Finance, something I still find true today.
Being no vocational, I always pursue learning new things at every stage in my career
Being no vocational, I always pursue learning new things at every stage in my career
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Monica’s Answer
Every career has its ups and downs, with some days being better than others. But I discovered how much joy I found in making a positive impact on someone's life. It felt amazing to finish the day knowing I had helped brighten someone's day or offered advice that could change their life. As a campus recruiter, I help students find internships and job opportunities. Sometimes, I'm there for their very first job interview. Being part of such an important moment in someone's life is truly exciting and makes me look forward to work every day. Focus on the positive aspects of your job and always remember your purpose—every career has one!
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Alfred F.’s Answer
I took a job out of college just to have a job. I realized very quickly it wasn't what I wanted to do. So I looked into improving my education and skills, attained some professional certifications and experience, and began a journey which has lasted my entire career. So I would say never stop learning, never stop believing that you can find the thing that you truly love doing.
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Citi’s Answer
- During Covid, I started learning about investing and the financial markets. I realized that I love evaluating companies and learning about the economy overall so i decided to pursue a business degree; specifically finance .
- I found it exciting and space where I felt like was constantly evolving and I could continue to keep learning. I love working in marketing, it is a big field with a lot of opportunities, whether you like doing analysis of data or working on creatives. There is something within this field, I felt like there would be a lot of room for growth here. That is what I looked for.
- After a 3-year management training program at the Federal Reserve Bank of Nee York, I realized the area and industry I wanted to focus my career.
- I found it exciting and space where I felt like was constantly evolving and I could continue to keep learning. I love working in marketing, it is a big field with a lot of opportunities, whether you like doing analysis of data or working on creatives. There is something within this field, I felt like there would be a lot of room for growth here. That is what I looked for.
- After a 3-year management training program at the Federal Reserve Bank of Nee York, I realized the area and industry I wanted to focus my career.
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Citi’s Answer
I always enjoyed finance and accounting, heading into my first time job as apprentice in an accounting firm I got to work on personal and small businesses. Seeing the real world impact of handing accounting and taxes and making these hard tasks , especially taxes, simpler and easy for our clients, and seeing the true appreciation of the value I could bring , sealed the deal for me that this is the career for me. Of course I have continued to grow and evolve in the space finding my niche through the journey.
So to but it simple try and find something you enjoy and are able to bring value to and you will thrive.
So to but it simple try and find something you enjoy and are able to bring value to and you will thrive.
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Linda’s Answer
It might seem like everyone else has their goals figured out, but it's okay if you don't. I found my path by exploring different options. Trust your instincts and think about what kind of work gives you a sense of purpose and makes you proud. Even if you can't start with your dream job, begin somewhere. Use it as a chance to learn and grow, and you'll find your way from there.
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Raj’s Answer
I once read a piece of advice online that really influenced my career choice. It said, "If you're good at something, make it your job because you have an advantage over those still learning."
This idea is inspiring because many of us naturally lean towards certain skills due to our upbringing or early experiences. For someone starting from scratch, reaching the same level of skill takes a lot of time and effort. Many new graduates face this challenge.
Think about what you already know well. Try to find a way to earn money from it, improve it, or build a career in that area. You have a unique connection to it, which gives you a head start!
This idea is inspiring because many of us naturally lean towards certain skills due to our upbringing or early experiences. For someone starting from scratch, reaching the same level of skill takes a lot of time and effort. Many new graduates face this challenge.
Think about what you already know well. Try to find a way to earn money from it, improve it, or build a career in that area. You have a unique connection to it, which gives you a head start!
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Citi’s Answer
- The turning point for me was meeting my manager who became a close friend and mentor. He constantly encouraged me to take on new work to learn different aspects of the job. Had I not done that, I wouldn't have shadowed him in the role I have now which has made such a positive impact in my career.
- The firm I work for. The opportunities to learn and grow.
- The firm I work for. The opportunities to learn and grow.
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Citi’s Answer
- Careers are much more like lattices rather than ladders. Pursue interests that align with your skills and don’t get complicit in what you know - always be a student.
- When I decided to study abroad. It made me open eyes to broader world.
-When I felt comfortable with the work and the people I was working with and felt like I "fit" is when I realized it was the career for me.
- When I decided to study abroad. It made me open eyes to broader world.
-When I felt comfortable with the work and the people I was working with and felt like I "fit" is when I realized it was the career for me.
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Gregory’s Answer
It is truly hard to definitely decide what career path or occupation you may want to take. I chose a career in law enforcement, but that was not my first choice. It is important to expose your self to different courses and experience in college until you find the one you are passionate about. It is not uncommon to change your mind multiple times during the course of your undergraduate degree! The other point to consider for a career in law enforcement is that there is not one set major. You can be an English major, and accountant, or have a degree in Cyber and Technology. All options are skills that law enforcement agencies are looking for. Be open to change and learning different skills until you find the one that is best for you. Best of luck!
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Citi’s Answer
- I was motivated to chose a banking/business career after meeting a former classmate who was already in a bank. As a consumer banker he was creating new products, teaching out to newer market segments and traveling all over the country. Looking back I realize that sometimes inspiration comes from your peers and not just from senior role models.
- I ended up working in Treasury after working in a few different areas. I started off training to be an Accountant. Then I went into Banking doing different roles and learning about different products, financial reporting and supporting trading desks. I like working in Treasury because it brings together all my knowledge of the balance sheet, different products and how it all comes together. Also you look at a total firm view so you get a ‘big picture’ view of things which is rare in Finance.
- I ended up working in Treasury after working in a few different areas. I started off training to be an Accountant. Then I went into Banking doing different roles and learning about different products, financial reporting and supporting trading desks. I like working in Treasury because it brings together all my knowledge of the balance sheet, different products and how it all comes together. Also you look at a total firm view so you get a ‘big picture’ view of things which is rare in Finance.
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Citi’s Answer
I always had an interest in finance, but it was during college that I had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through real-world business projects. What surprised me most was how much I enjoyed solving problems and achieving the small wins that came with each task. Those experiences showed me that even the smallest successes can build into something much greater over time. I was also drawn to the challenges, knowing that overcoming them would be both rewarding and an opportunity for growth. That combination of problem-solving, continuous learning, and creating meaningful results solidified my decision to pursue a career in finance.
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Ashok’s Answer
I was really amazed by technology and how quickly computers were improving 30 years ago, much like the rapid progress we see with AI today.
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Citi’s Answer
I am on a career path for People Data. I think I came to the realization gradually. It was first working in the field as a junior analyst for many years, looking for advancement opportunities within my field and comparing my fields with other fields, and realizing that grass isn't necessarily greener elsewhere.
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Kimberly’s Answer
One of the biggest turning points in my life was realizing that I was most energized not by doing just one task, but by bringing different people, timelines, and moving parts together to make a goal happen. I started noticing that I naturally liked organizing plans, solving problems before they grew, and keeping everyone aligned when things became stressful or unclear. That experience showed me that project management was a career where I could use my strengths in communication, coordination, and leadership to help teams succeed. Instead of wanting to be the person focused on only one piece of the work, I wanted to be the person making sure the whole effort moved forward smoothly. That is what made me realize project management was the right path for me.
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Carly’s Answer
I love this question because it reminds me of my own college days. I was sure I wanted a career with horses and riding. I was on the equestrian team, got a business management degree focusing on entrepreneurship, and minored in advertising. After graduation, I followed this path, but my passion faded, and life felt like work.
I decided to explore new opportunities with an open mind. I started waiting tables, which helped me enjoy customer service and creating a fun atmosphere. Then, I became an office manager at a mental health practice, where I learned about time management, multitasking, and empathy.
With this open mindset, I found my dream job in Treasury. It was unexpected, and I knew nothing about it, but I decided to say yes to learning and growing. My passion for my career grew with support from my leaders and peers.
Being open to new opportunities, not just in work but in life, can lead you to a passion worth pursuing. The turning point for me was gaining confidence in my abilities, which led to promotions and salary increases. I'm still learning and growing, especially with new AI projects in Finance. Stay curious and keep saying yes, but also take care of yourself to avoid burnout!
I decided to explore new opportunities with an open mind. I started waiting tables, which helped me enjoy customer service and creating a fun atmosphere. Then, I became an office manager at a mental health practice, where I learned about time management, multitasking, and empathy.
With this open mindset, I found my dream job in Treasury. It was unexpected, and I knew nothing about it, but I decided to say yes to learning and growing. My passion for my career grew with support from my leaders and peers.
Being open to new opportunities, not just in work but in life, can lead you to a passion worth pursuing. The turning point for me was gaining confidence in my abilities, which led to promotions and salary increases. I'm still learning and growing, especially with new AI projects in Finance. Stay curious and keep saying yes, but also take care of yourself to avoid burnout!
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Navneet’s Answer
Short answer: The turning point came when I realized I enjoyed diagnosing the systemic, root cause of a problem far more than just executing the daily task in front of me. Shifting from doing the work to designing the workflow changed everything.
For a long time, I was simply following the educational and career track I had chosen early on, assuming that specialized skills automatically equaled job satisfaction. The real turning point arrived a few years into my career during a major system breakdown. While everyone else was stressed about the immediate failure, I found myself completely energized by the challenge of looking under the hood, isolating the variables, and building a more efficient framework to prevent it from ever happening again.
That shift in mindset—realizing I loved solving complex puzzles and building systems more than just maintaining the status quo—made me pivot my career direction. I learned that your initial degree or job title doesn't define your ceiling; your natural problem-solving style does. Once I aligned my daily work with that core strength, moving into leadership and advanced technical roles became a natural progression rather than an uphill battle.
For a long time, I was simply following the educational and career track I had chosen early on, assuming that specialized skills automatically equaled job satisfaction. The real turning point arrived a few years into my career during a major system breakdown. While everyone else was stressed about the immediate failure, I found myself completely energized by the challenge of looking under the hood, isolating the variables, and building a more efficient framework to prevent it from ever happening again.
That shift in mindset—realizing I loved solving complex puzzles and building systems more than just maintaining the status quo—made me pivot my career direction. I learned that your initial degree or job title doesn't define your ceiling; your natural problem-solving style does. Once I aligned my daily work with that core strength, moving into leadership and advanced technical roles became a natural progression rather than an uphill battle.
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Citi’s Answer
- The turning point when I started engaging with clients and building platform and documentation for various projects. This is when I realized that my career choice is Project Management and Client Management. This path helped me to grow in my career and achieve my goals.
- It was in college after my sophomore year after taking all the general business courses where I really enjoyed Marketing. The content was interesting to me and I wanted to work in this field.
- I always enjoyed working with numbers when I was younger. In high school I enjoyed the challenge of solving various mathematical equations. I began to pursue a career in finance during college and kept learning post college in becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst.
- It was in college after my sophomore year after taking all the general business courses where I really enjoyed Marketing. The content was interesting to me and I wanted to work in this field.
- I always enjoyed working with numbers when I was younger. In high school I enjoyed the challenge of solving various mathematical equations. I began to pursue a career in finance during college and kept learning post college in becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst.
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Citi’s Answer
- There was not a specific turning point for me but rather a journey with many twists and turns along the way. For me, it was important to keep an open mind, lean in to new opportunities and challenges, build a broad network and see where the journey would take me.
- I tried a few different career paths in my twenties before deciding what to pursue. I wasn’t sure coming out of college on what I wanted to do. This gave me the opportunity to do a variety of tasks and roles so that I could figure out where I could excel in the future.
- As I have navigated my career, the turning point for me was really when I felt like I knew I could make a positive impact at my job, but ALSO felt like I belonged and felt good about the work I am doing. Those two things together were very important to me, and when they began to click I knew I was on the right path.
- I tried a few different career paths in my twenties before deciding what to pursue. I wasn’t sure coming out of college on what I wanted to do. This gave me the opportunity to do a variety of tasks and roles so that I could figure out where I could excel in the future.
- As I have navigated my career, the turning point for me was really when I felt like I knew I could make a positive impact at my job, but ALSO felt like I belonged and felt good about the work I am doing. Those two things together were very important to me, and when they began to click I knew I was on the right path.
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Citi’s Answer
- "What career do you want” can be such a daunting question - I found that when starting my career, I just focus on the here and now. What do I like doing today and what gets me excited to go into the office? Once you have that pep in your step, career decision insights follow.
- It was a more gradual process — I took note of what I did/didn’t like in school, and thought about what I truly was interested outside of school. I started talking to as many people as possible in as many fields as possible, and just naturally gravitated towards this career over time. If you follow your interested and talk to as many people as possible, you’ll set yourself up on the right path for you!
- It was a more gradual process — I took note of what I did/didn’t like in school, and thought about what I truly was interested outside of school. I started talking to as many people as possible in as many fields as possible, and just naturally gravitated towards this career over time. If you follow your interested and talk to as many people as possible, you’ll set yourself up on the right path for you!
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Cathy’s Answer
Hi Charles - I knew I wanted to go into consulting because I enjoy working with people and solving problems. Consulting gives you the opportunity to try new things while also drawing on your past experience to support clients in meaningful ways. It is a field where you are constantly learning, adapting, and building skills that can be applied across different industries and challenges. For me, that combination of variety, collaboration, and problem-solving is what makes consulting so appealing
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Wong’s Answer
For me, the turning point was realizing that enjoying a subject is different from enjoying the work itself. I learned that a career is not just about what you like to study, but also about the type of problems you enjoy solving and the work you are happy to do every day.
One thing that helped me was talking to professionals and learning about their daily responsibilities. Hearing their experiences gave me a much clearer picture of different careers than reading job descriptions alone.
I also realized that trying new experiences was important. Volunteering and personal projects taught me much more about my interests than simply thinking about them.
One thing that helped me was talking to professionals and learning about their daily responsibilities. Hearing their experiences gave me a much clearer picture of different careers than reading job descriptions alone.
I also realized that trying new experiences was important. Volunteering and personal projects taught me much more about my interests than simply thinking about them.