9 answers
Aiden
Student
Newton Falls, Ohio
3
Questions
Asked
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How do I think about what I want to do after I graduate?
I'm 16 in high school and I am having trouble deciding what I want to major in. I was thinking something to do with Music, but I'm not even sure if that's the direction I'm headed in.
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9 answers
Simona Gadow
Account Executive (IT Sales)
11
Answers
Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Updated
Simona’s Answer
Hi Aiden,
Okay, I disagree with most of what people have told you here, and I've got a very different perspective.
Here are starting points that I'd recommend you.
1) Controversially, anything you do for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, you will end up disliking at certain points in your career to say the least; you might lose your love for it altogether over time; you might keep it, but the risk is real. And when that happens, it's important that you have a hobby you're passionate about to fall back on, to balance you, and to alleviate stress. I'm a big big fan of NOT making your hobby your profession, because in the long run, it will rob you of something you love. Turning a hobby into a career is where you see the gruelling sides of the hobby. For example, I'd be a darn good chef. But do I want the early mornings and late nights in a soul-crushing high-pressure environment, on my feet all day, the shouting, the grease, the endless market runs and bizarre customer requests? Noooo.
2) What lifestyle do you want to live? That's not only monetary questions (although you should keep it in mind) but it's stuff like - do you want a family life? If yes, by what age? Before that age, are you willing to grind long hours? Do you want to travel internationally? Are you okay to miss birthdays and family holidays for the job? Or do you just want an easy life with a job that pays the bills? Look at jobs from the angle of - what is my dream lifestyle by age 40, and will that profession as a whole get me there, or be in the way?
3) Consider the long-term aspects of the job. Is this something you can do until you're 70? How high is your risk of a minor injury affecting your earning potential? For example, as a musician there are many injuries and disabilities that will greatly impact your ability to perform, even if it's just a slight tremor in your hands by age 45; same if you're, say, a surgeon. The risk is greatly reduced in other lines of work, such as the business world.
4) This is the most important one: instead of looking what you like, start from what people criticise you for. Example: I've had several people tell me "Man, you're pushy" - and I turned it into a sales career in tech. Your perceived flaws and weaknesses are powerful pointers as to what you can harness and turn into your superpower.
More examples:
"Man, you always have to have the last word, don't you?" - excellent! A law career it is!
"Man, you really like to hear yourself talk" - media and entertainment (and for the love of god, please don't make it a podcast)!
What are your morbid fascinations? What can you tolerate well that others struggle with? It can be something as simple as: "I'm not scared of heights at all" - well there are very lucrative careers for electricians who fix power grids high above the ground. "I love these North Sea TikTok videos" - freight logistics, oil rig work... I'd look at stuff that isn't for the average joe, but that feeds into what you can tolerate well.
You see where I'm going with this?
5) Saying this as softly as I can, but what applies to love also applies to picking a profession in the arts - if it's not a "hell yes!" then it's a no. The creative industries are highly competitive, and you'll be up against people who have been playing the piano AND the guitar AND the saxophone since they were like what, 3 months old - not really, but you get my point. If a creative profession is calling you, oftentimes, that is abundantly clear since the younger years. I don't know you, so only you can judge that for yourself.
6) Don't put pressure on yourself. Picking a profession for a lifetime at age 17-19 is madness, and it can't be reasonably expected of you. So a good option is to learn or study something that keeps your options broad and open. An economics degree opens you up for pretty much any job, really; or a media and entertainment business degree. Or you try an apprenticeship at something music-related that sparks your interest to see if it's something you'd enjoy. A lot of the times, the lucrative jobs are not in the spotlight but in the operations around the music aspect. The production, the equipment, the technical aspects of it. Maybe check that out too.
7) If you do want to go down the music route, and if it's something you're passionate about - find a mentor! And that can be as simple as a music teacher you trust. Or someone you know that might be in the field. Get intel, get information, let them give you a first-hand account of what it's like, and ask for tips. Ask: "If you could go back and start all over, what tips would you give yourself? What would you do differently?"
Try to get a warm referral into the industry. Someone to tell you what good starting points are, and what to avoid.
I hope that helps! Best of luck!
If anything is unclear or if you have additional questions about any of this, do reach out :)
Okay, I disagree with most of what people have told you here, and I've got a very different perspective.
Here are starting points that I'd recommend you.
1) Controversially, anything you do for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, you will end up disliking at certain points in your career to say the least; you might lose your love for it altogether over time; you might keep it, but the risk is real. And when that happens, it's important that you have a hobby you're passionate about to fall back on, to balance you, and to alleviate stress. I'm a big big fan of NOT making your hobby your profession, because in the long run, it will rob you of something you love. Turning a hobby into a career is where you see the gruelling sides of the hobby. For example, I'd be a darn good chef. But do I want the early mornings and late nights in a soul-crushing high-pressure environment, on my feet all day, the shouting, the grease, the endless market runs and bizarre customer requests? Noooo.
2) What lifestyle do you want to live? That's not only monetary questions (although you should keep it in mind) but it's stuff like - do you want a family life? If yes, by what age? Before that age, are you willing to grind long hours? Do you want to travel internationally? Are you okay to miss birthdays and family holidays for the job? Or do you just want an easy life with a job that pays the bills? Look at jobs from the angle of - what is my dream lifestyle by age 40, and will that profession as a whole get me there, or be in the way?
3) Consider the long-term aspects of the job. Is this something you can do until you're 70? How high is your risk of a minor injury affecting your earning potential? For example, as a musician there are many injuries and disabilities that will greatly impact your ability to perform, even if it's just a slight tremor in your hands by age 45; same if you're, say, a surgeon. The risk is greatly reduced in other lines of work, such as the business world.
4) This is the most important one: instead of looking what you like, start from what people criticise you for. Example: I've had several people tell me "Man, you're pushy" - and I turned it into a sales career in tech. Your perceived flaws and weaknesses are powerful pointers as to what you can harness and turn into your superpower.
More examples:
"Man, you always have to have the last word, don't you?" - excellent! A law career it is!
"Man, you really like to hear yourself talk" - media and entertainment (and for the love of god, please don't make it a podcast)!
What are your morbid fascinations? What can you tolerate well that others struggle with? It can be something as simple as: "I'm not scared of heights at all" - well there are very lucrative careers for electricians who fix power grids high above the ground. "I love these North Sea TikTok videos" - freight logistics, oil rig work... I'd look at stuff that isn't for the average joe, but that feeds into what you can tolerate well.
You see where I'm going with this?
5) Saying this as softly as I can, but what applies to love also applies to picking a profession in the arts - if it's not a "hell yes!" then it's a no. The creative industries are highly competitive, and you'll be up against people who have been playing the piano AND the guitar AND the saxophone since they were like what, 3 months old - not really, but you get my point. If a creative profession is calling you, oftentimes, that is abundantly clear since the younger years. I don't know you, so only you can judge that for yourself.
6) Don't put pressure on yourself. Picking a profession for a lifetime at age 17-19 is madness, and it can't be reasonably expected of you. So a good option is to learn or study something that keeps your options broad and open. An economics degree opens you up for pretty much any job, really; or a media and entertainment business degree. Or you try an apprenticeship at something music-related that sparks your interest to see if it's something you'd enjoy. A lot of the times, the lucrative jobs are not in the spotlight but in the operations around the music aspect. The production, the equipment, the technical aspects of it. Maybe check that out too.
7) If you do want to go down the music route, and if it's something you're passionate about - find a mentor! And that can be as simple as a music teacher you trust. Or someone you know that might be in the field. Get intel, get information, let them give you a first-hand account of what it's like, and ask for tips. Ask: "If you could go back and start all over, what tips would you give yourself? What would you do differently?"
Try to get a warm referral into the industry. Someone to tell you what good starting points are, and what to avoid.
I hope that helps! Best of luck!
If anything is unclear or if you have additional questions about any of this, do reach out :)
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2749
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. The most important is to find out what careers you have interest first.
Below are my suggestions :
1. If you lije music, would you like to ve a singer, musician, musical artist, music producer, music composer, etc. Alternatively, think about your other hobbies favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school carer counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers yiu would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria if relevant subjects in colleges
Hope thys helos! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. If you lije music, would you like to ve a singer, musician, musical artist, music producer, music composer, etc. Alternatively, think about your other hobbies favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school carer counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers yiu would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria if relevant subjects in colleges
Hope thys helos! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Joe Veverka
Program Manager
1
Answer
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Joe’s Answer
You should start by understanding what gives you energy, and what does not. Spend time thinking about things that you enjoy doing and what previous jobs or experience have provided you those experiences that give you clarity. Talk to people who know you best to find your superpowers specifically ones that might be hidden to you. What you're trying to do is hard, but the thinking is the most important part. Talk with folks, try little project here and there that can help guide your decision making. Take baby steps to your goal. It's OK to try things with the result that you don't like that direction and then you change, that's information that can eventually get you on the right path. Also, do expect what you decided today to be forever, your preferences will change, it will be an ongoing process for your entire life, so int's important to build the decision-making criteria that will help you explore.
steve wright
Drummer
8
Answers
Tijeras, New Mexico
Updated
steve’s Answer
Hello Aiden,
At the age of 16 not too many really know what their passion truly is. So, I'll start with two questions. Are you currently playing a musical instrument and do you spend a lot of time practicing? When you listen to your favorite (or not so favorite) music, do you really listen to all the instruments individually or just sing along with the song? The honest answer to yourself should tell you if music is really your passion.
I say this because in the real world of music production, live performances, sound engineering, mixing, and so on, having a good ear is imperative. Having working knowledge of any instrument also gains knowledge in how making music works. Playing with other musicians will also expand your knowledge if you listen to those with the most experience.
As was stated before, it would be wise to have a solid conversation with your high school guidance counselor about career choices in the music industry. Conversing with your school's music instructor could also prove beneficial. Which begs one last question. Are you performing with a band or orchestra in your school?
I wish you the best, Aiden, and hope you find your way.
At the age of 16 not too many really know what their passion truly is. So, I'll start with two questions. Are you currently playing a musical instrument and do you spend a lot of time practicing? When you listen to your favorite (or not so favorite) music, do you really listen to all the instruments individually or just sing along with the song? The honest answer to yourself should tell you if music is really your passion.
I say this because in the real world of music production, live performances, sound engineering, mixing, and so on, having a good ear is imperative. Having working knowledge of any instrument also gains knowledge in how making music works. Playing with other musicians will also expand your knowledge if you listen to those with the most experience.
As was stated before, it would be wise to have a solid conversation with your high school guidance counselor about career choices in the music industry. Conversing with your school's music instructor could also prove beneficial. Which begs one last question. Are you performing with a band or orchestra in your school?
I wish you the best, Aiden, and hope you find your way.
Gemechis Tolessa
Business & Technology Integration
3
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Gemechis’s Answer
Hi Aiden, if you have an interest in music then try looking for apprenticeship opportunities, they are a great way to get exposure into a career and see if that is something for you. One thing to think about to help you narrow down your choice is do you want to work in a studio crafting the music or do you want to work at a label whether a small or big growing, managing, and helping artists succeed. Good luck on your journey it sounds exciting!
Doran Heck
Music Production
25
Answers
Asheville, North Carolina
Updated
Doran’s Answer
Aiden,
I was a music education major in the 90's. If you decide to study music that is a good way to go. If you decide otherwise there are many facets of music careers out there. Music performance, music composition, sound engineer, music therapy, private lessons teacher, or working at a music store or place that sells music. Good luck with your decision.
Sincerely,
Doran
I was a music education major in the 90's. If you decide to study music that is a good way to go. If you decide otherwise there are many facets of music careers out there. Music performance, music composition, sound engineer, music therapy, private lessons teacher, or working at a music store or place that sells music. Good luck with your decision.
Sincerely,
Doran
Cesar Alonso
Head of Strategic Impact
16
Answers
Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain
Updated
Cesar’s Answer
Hi Aiden, it's perfectly okay to feel unsure about what to do next at your age. Be curious and chat with people you trust to discover what suits you and what you love. Don't worry too much about the future. Instead, follow your passions and believe in yourself. That's all you need.
I wish you the best. I know you'll do great!
I wish you the best. I know you'll do great!
Joy Ferguson
Author
41
Answers
Huntsville, Alabama
Updated
Joy’s Answer
Talk to your school advisor and list things that interest you. Your passion will be what your purpose is and you will know what it is because you are good at it and you do it all the time and your friends can help because they spend time with you.
Harry Clapeck
Manufacturing
61
Answers
Scottsdale, Arizona
Updated
Harry’s Answer
Hi Aiden, a great question.
My answer is simple.
Pick three things that are at the top of what you like to do. Start your education in those directions. As you progress, you will find that one stands out as more exciting or rewarding. Follow that path.
Now that you have set a course, let me throw a bump in the road. As you progress through life, you will be surprised by the number of "forks in the road" that open up for you, and I will almost guarantee that you will be changing careers a few times.
Go where your desires are. It is a very valuable and rewarding life that will take you to many places.
Harry
My answer is simple.
Pick three things that are at the top of what you like to do. Start your education in those directions. As you progress, you will find that one stands out as more exciting or rewarding. Follow that path.
Now that you have set a course, let me throw a bump in the road. As you progress through life, you will be surprised by the number of "forks in the road" that open up for you, and I will almost guarantee that you will be changing careers a few times.
Go where your desires are. It is a very valuable and rewarding life that will take you to many places.
Harry