6 answers
Yariel
Student
4
Questions
Asked
323 views
When is the best time to start looking into a career??
There's so many choices for me to pick from and I don't know when I should try to lock in on one.
Login to comment
6 answers
Melissa Urbin
Executive Resolution Advocate
15
Answers
Saint Clair Shores, Michigan
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
In my experience, it is never too early to begin actively exploring what career may be best for you, but you don't need to feel pressured to make a final decision right away. If you’re still in high school, you can take steps to explore future careers and figure out what interests you and what may be a good fit. You can complete a summer internship in a field that interests you, take career interest tests to discover potential career paths that you may have never considered in the past, research the academic and professional requirements related to your current dream job(s), or get a part-time job to begin to develop your professional and/or people skills. If you are choosing to attend college and haven't decided on a career path when you start, that's okay! It is normal to start college by studying a variety of subjects before you decide firmly on a major or path to a certain field.
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Yariel
Gregory Harris
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
The good news is what you want to study/work can change throughout your life so no worries if you don't fall in love with the first thing you start working on.
In terms of choosing a career, I personally would push you to find out the set of things you are interested in, so you know how competitive you need to be for your college application. If you are trying to be a lawyer, doctor, or investment banker it is helpful to know what schools those companies tend to target. I would also do a lot of research online about the professions to learn more about it. One thing that I am sure you can find is a "Day in the life" video on youtube. Those can give you some insights into the hours and day to day. If you are curious about the salary then I would also look that up online to get an idea.
In terms of choosing a career, I personally would push you to find out the set of things you are interested in, so you know how competitive you need to be for your college application. If you are trying to be a lawyer, doctor, or investment banker it is helpful to know what schools those companies tend to target. I would also do a lot of research online about the professions to learn more about it. One thing that I am sure you can find is a "Day in the life" video on youtube. Those can give you some insights into the hours and day to day. If you are curious about the salary then I would also look that up online to get an idea.
Willette Wiley
Occupational therapy assistant
11
Answers
Augusta, Georgia
Updated
Willette’s Answer
Hi Yariel
Your parents or guardians should actually be guiding you in the direction they see you have special gifts and talents at an early age. If you don't have that then you should start immediately thinking about what you are good at like Math, Science writing, animals, computers, Technology etc. Then look into the Occupational outlook hand book and see what careers are going to grow in the areas you are interested in the next five to ten years. This will give you a good direction and a guide to help making the right career choice.
I hope this helps.
Your parents or guardians should actually be guiding you in the direction they see you have special gifts and talents at an early age. If you don't have that then you should start immediately thinking about what you are good at like Math, Science writing, animals, computers, Technology etc. Then look into the Occupational outlook hand book and see what careers are going to grow in the areas you are interested in the next five to ten years. This will give you a good direction and a guide to help making the right career choice.
I hope this helps.
Robert Kurisko
Coach
1
Answer
West Windsor Township, New Jersey
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hi Yariel,
This is such a good question, thank you for asking it. Like others have suggested check with your parents, friends, and teachers to find out what they observe are your strengths. But also consider what would spark joy for you. What are things that you enjoy doing? If unknown you can also search what career areas will be in high demand and see if any of those spark something. One thing you'll also want to consider is not getting locked in on only having just one career as chances are you will have multiple careers in your lifetime whereby you will be doing different things. My advice is to be open to possibilities.
I wish you all the best and hope this helps.
This is such a good question, thank you for asking it. Like others have suggested check with your parents, friends, and teachers to find out what they observe are your strengths. But also consider what would spark joy for you. What are things that you enjoy doing? If unknown you can also search what career areas will be in high demand and see if any of those spark something. One thing you'll also want to consider is not getting locked in on only having just one career as chances are you will have multiple careers in your lifetime whereby you will be doing different things. My advice is to be open to possibilities.
I wish you all the best and hope this helps.
Ivana Doubek
Consultant
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Ivana’s Answer
Hi Yariel,
I agree with everyone else's advice here! I would also add that college is a GREAT time to explore. You should consider seeking internships during the summers, as these are great opportunities to learn without being fully committed to one path.
When you're in college, an intern, or starting at a new job it is the perfect opportunity to ask a lot of questions to the people who are already in the work force. In my experience, people love talking about their personal journeys, and when you're just starting your own career journey, they will be excited to offer their insight!
Make sure you ask questions that can give you insight into what makes a role or industry interesting, exciting, challenging, and then ask yourself whether you can imagine yourself doing that job!
I agree with everyone else's advice here! I would also add that college is a GREAT time to explore. You should consider seeking internships during the summers, as these are great opportunities to learn without being fully committed to one path.
When you're in college, an intern, or starting at a new job it is the perfect opportunity to ask a lot of questions to the people who are already in the work force. In my experience, people love talking about their personal journeys, and when you're just starting your own career journey, they will be excited to offer their insight!
Make sure you ask questions that can give you insight into what makes a role or industry interesting, exciting, challenging, and then ask yourself whether you can imagine yourself doing that job!
Priscilla Cardoso
Product Manager
37
Answers
Cooper City, Florida
Updated
Priscilla’s Answer
Hello Yariel,
I've been in multiple roles in my life (I'm in by 40s now). I started in IT, then HR, and now I work as Product Manager in a Financial institution (I graduated from Business Administrator, which is an amazing way to keep your options open - HR, Marketing, Finance, etc).
People change as they progress in life. Something that motivates and interest you may not be the same 20 years from now. So I would say keep your mind and your eyes open. Don't get too worried about having to choose one career and thinking that you need to stick with that. As long as you're growing (more senior positions, compensation, or personal achievement), you're good.
I've been in multiple roles in my life (I'm in by 40s now). I started in IT, then HR, and now I work as Product Manager in a Financial institution (I graduated from Business Administrator, which is an amazing way to keep your options open - HR, Marketing, Finance, etc).
People change as they progress in life. Something that motivates and interest you may not be the same 20 years from now. So I would say keep your mind and your eyes open. Don't get too worried about having to choose one career and thinking that you need to stick with that. As long as you're growing (more senior positions, compensation, or personal achievement), you're good.