7 answers
Dua
Student
Waldorf, Maryland
1
Question
Asked
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What do I really want to do?
I am an intern at North Point High School, for Cisco Networking Academy. I am finding a remote job that pays well for a student, while I get the learning I need.
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7 answers
Gabriel Hennsssey
Financial Aid Administrator
71
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Gabriel’s Answer
OOF!....Hello!
Please apologize to your parents, up front...if I say something bad.
I work in financial aid at a not-for-profit university. I have two Masters Degrees and have managed to earn my keep for the last 20 years.
As I tell almost everyone here, please take this with a grain of salt, But it's based on my own experience.
Your subject line was "what do I really want to do?" I went to University as a double-major, triple minor because they let me (Thank you, ACT score) It wasn’t until after I left college that someone from advising gave me advice I will never forget…
(Please keep in mind…the rules change if you work in a specific trade…medical, etc.)
The advice I got was, “You don’t go to college to learn a specific “job”…you go there to learn how to learn.”
You are not pre-destined to work in a specific industry. I speak from experience.
Just please….for your own self-interest…if you start college…finish…unless something really odd happens. It’s about growth, change, Kum-Ba-Yah. My greatest regret was taking a semester off that lasted nine years.
Please apologize to your parents, up front...if I say something bad.
I work in financial aid at a not-for-profit university. I have two Masters Degrees and have managed to earn my keep for the last 20 years.
As I tell almost everyone here, please take this with a grain of salt, But it's based on my own experience.
Your subject line was "what do I really want to do?" I went to University as a double-major, triple minor because they let me (Thank you, ACT score) It wasn’t until after I left college that someone from advising gave me advice I will never forget…
(Please keep in mind…the rules change if you work in a specific trade…medical, etc.)
The advice I got was, “You don’t go to college to learn a specific “job”…you go there to learn how to learn.”
You are not pre-destined to work in a specific industry. I speak from experience.
Just please….for your own self-interest…if you start college…finish…unless something really odd happens. It’s about growth, change, Kum-Ba-Yah. My greatest regret was taking a semester off that lasted nine years.
Doug Johnson
Project Manager
16
Answers
Orland Park, Illinois
Updated
Doug’s Answer
As an intern for Cisco Networking Academy, I’m assuming you enjoy or are at least interested in technology. Most colleges have an Information Technology/Computer Science degree program. If you get into this program at a college, the program will require or offer a variety of courses in technology from programming to networks to GUI design to project management. You’ll get a taste of the various facets of information technology and learn what area is most interesting to you.
As recommended in the other responses, take a variety of courses outside of technology. These other courses will help you learn how to think and help you discover what most interests you – and it may not be Information Technology.
I want to make a pitch for learning communication skills – especially writing. Having spent my career in Information Technology, I can tell you that the discipline is in desperate need of people who have good communication skills. Having communication education and skills noted on your resume may not be the most influential factor in getting a job, but I can assure you that good communication skills will make you more successful in any position.
As recommended in the other responses, take a variety of courses outside of technology. These other courses will help you learn how to think and help you discover what most interests you – and it may not be Information Technology.
I want to make a pitch for learning communication skills – especially writing. Having spent my career in Information Technology, I can tell you that the discipline is in desperate need of people who have good communication skills. Having communication education and skills noted on your resume may not be the most influential factor in getting a job, but I can assure you that good communication skills will make you more successful in any position.
Tammy Laframboise
Present pension and financial planning information to members of a pension
41
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Tammy’s Answer
I suspect that this question will reappear throughout your life. It has for me. I started as an accountant then morphed into working as the financial advisor for a charity, then a financial advisor for individuals and groups, then finally as a "client relations and education specialist" speaking on pensions and financial planning. I only found my dream job for the last 5 years of my career. I just loved speaking to groups and helping them to become comfortable and confident about their financial lives. Now I am retired and am pursuing what I always thought I couldn't and that is art. I was timid during my career about changing jobs because of the financial imperative. I was in jobs that paid well so i was easier not to question my satisfaction.
My advice to you is to be open to opportunities and interests. I agree with Gabriel about getting your education under your belt. That will give you a good basis for your future. It will also help you to meet people and gain a work ethic and hopefully, give you critical thinking skills. Personally, as a petite blonde woman my Bachelor of Commerce and CA (Canadian Chartered Accountant designation) gave me the credibility I needed to do my jobs.
I wish that I had looked at other opportunites. What other jobs were out there? What cool things were other people doing? Personally, I always loved travel so maybe I could have searched for jobs that would have allowed me to travel. Think about what you enjoy doing and see if there is a fit in terms of jobs.
Good luck in your exciting quest.
My advice to you is to be open to opportunities and interests. I agree with Gabriel about getting your education under your belt. That will give you a good basis for your future. It will also help you to meet people and gain a work ethic and hopefully, give you critical thinking skills. Personally, as a petite blonde woman my Bachelor of Commerce and CA (Canadian Chartered Accountant designation) gave me the credibility I needed to do my jobs.
I wish that I had looked at other opportunites. What other jobs were out there? What cool things were other people doing? Personally, I always loved travel so maybe I could have searched for jobs that would have allowed me to travel. Think about what you enjoy doing and see if there is a fit in terms of jobs.
Good luck in your exciting quest.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
It's great that you're taking steps to explore your career options and find a remote job that aligns with your interests and goals. Here are some steps to help you determine what you really want to do:
1. **Self-Reflection:** Take some time for introspection. Consider your passions, skills, and long-term goals. What subjects or tasks do you enjoy the most? What kind of work energizes you?
2. **Explore Interests:** Since you're interning in Cisco Networking Academy, explore if networking and IT related fields resonate with you. Do you find the work engaging and enjoyable?
3. **Talk to Mentors:** Connect with your internship mentors or teachers for guidance. They can offer insights into potential career paths and provide valuable advice.
4. **Research Career Options:** Research various career options, especially those related to your academic pursuits. Look into roles, industries, and companies that interest you.
5. **Skill Development:** Identify the skills you want to develop further. This can help you narrow down job opportunities that align with your learning goals.
6. **Internship Evaluation:** Reflect on your current internship. What aspects of it do you find most appealing? Could you see yourself pursuing a career in this field?
7. **Job Market Research:** Investigate the job market for remote opportunities in your chosen field. Understand the demand for specific skills and certifications.
8. **Set Clear Goals:** Define your short-term and long-term career goals. Knowing where you want to be in the future can guide your job search.
9. **Networking:** Connect with professionals in your chosen field through LinkedIn, industry-specific forums, and virtual networking events. They may offer insights and job leads.
10. **Resume and Cover Letter:** Tailor your resume and cover letter to the positions you're interested in. Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and coursework.
11. **Apply Widely:** Apply to a variety of remote job openings that align with your interests and skill set. Don't limit yourself to a single opportunity.
12. **Interview Preparation:** Practice your interview skills. Be ready to discuss your qualifications, experiences, and your passion for the field.
13. **Evaluate Offers:** If you receive job offers, evaluate them carefully. Consider factors like compensation, job responsibilities, opportunities for growth, and company culture.
14. **Seek Advice:** Consult with career counselors or advisors at your school for guidance on job searching and career planning.
Finding the right career path can be a journey of self-discovery and exploration. Keep an open mind, stay adaptable, and be willing to learn and grow along the way. Remember that it's okay to explore different opportunities to figure out what truly resonates with you. Your internship at Cisco Networking Academy is a valuable experience that can help you in your quest to find a fulfilling and well-paying remote job.
1. **Self-Reflection:** Take some time for introspection. Consider your passions, skills, and long-term goals. What subjects or tasks do you enjoy the most? What kind of work energizes you?
2. **Explore Interests:** Since you're interning in Cisco Networking Academy, explore if networking and IT related fields resonate with you. Do you find the work engaging and enjoyable?
3. **Talk to Mentors:** Connect with your internship mentors or teachers for guidance. They can offer insights into potential career paths and provide valuable advice.
4. **Research Career Options:** Research various career options, especially those related to your academic pursuits. Look into roles, industries, and companies that interest you.
5. **Skill Development:** Identify the skills you want to develop further. This can help you narrow down job opportunities that align with your learning goals.
6. **Internship Evaluation:** Reflect on your current internship. What aspects of it do you find most appealing? Could you see yourself pursuing a career in this field?
7. **Job Market Research:** Investigate the job market for remote opportunities in your chosen field. Understand the demand for specific skills and certifications.
8. **Set Clear Goals:** Define your short-term and long-term career goals. Knowing where you want to be in the future can guide your job search.
9. **Networking:** Connect with professionals in your chosen field through LinkedIn, industry-specific forums, and virtual networking events. They may offer insights and job leads.
10. **Resume and Cover Letter:** Tailor your resume and cover letter to the positions you're interested in. Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and coursework.
11. **Apply Widely:** Apply to a variety of remote job openings that align with your interests and skill set. Don't limit yourself to a single opportunity.
12. **Interview Preparation:** Practice your interview skills. Be ready to discuss your qualifications, experiences, and your passion for the field.
13. **Evaluate Offers:** If you receive job offers, evaluate them carefully. Consider factors like compensation, job responsibilities, opportunities for growth, and company culture.
14. **Seek Advice:** Consult with career counselors or advisors at your school for guidance on job searching and career planning.
Finding the right career path can be a journey of self-discovery and exploration. Keep an open mind, stay adaptable, and be willing to learn and grow along the way. Remember that it's okay to explore different opportunities to figure out what truly resonates with you. Your internship at Cisco Networking Academy is a valuable experience that can help you in your quest to find a fulfilling and well-paying remote job.
Dulitha Ranatunga
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Updated
Dulitha’s Answer
Answering "what do I really want to do?" is a question that most people struggle with throughout their lives. There is never a one size fits all solution for each person. It's a great question to ask when you are young though and one that not everyone always stops to do. When I was younger I picked what was easy and what I was good at, but I didn't pause to figure out what it was that I actually wanted.
My advice depends on how much time and opportunity you have. If you have a lot of time, spend it talking to as many different people that you can. If you think you have a set of professions in mind, try and talk to people doing those jobs and find out what their day to day is. If that seems like something you'd like to do, then talking to them can help give more specific advice on how to get there.
If you don't have a clue on where to start, then look around you and think about what makes you proud and think about what it is that made you feel that way. I find it makes a huge difference in my personal self-worth, confidence and happiness when I can talk to other people about my work and talk about it with pride.
If you like doing lots of different things and want exposure to a lot of different industries, you can find a job that lets you move around. For me, I chose computer science because as a software engineer I've been able to change many times in my career; from research, to healthcare, to search and now design and education.
If money is difficult, then a remote job to support your learning is a great idea. Money does open up a lot of opportunities to find what you want later in life, but I wouldn't recommend seeking money for moneys sake, just because you'll eventually find your work unfulfilling and need to start this journey again finding yourself.
My advice depends on how much time and opportunity you have. If you have a lot of time, spend it talking to as many different people that you can. If you think you have a set of professions in mind, try and talk to people doing those jobs and find out what their day to day is. If that seems like something you'd like to do, then talking to them can help give more specific advice on how to get there.
If you don't have a clue on where to start, then look around you and think about what makes you proud and think about what it is that made you feel that way. I find it makes a huge difference in my personal self-worth, confidence and happiness when I can talk to other people about my work and talk about it with pride.
If you like doing lots of different things and want exposure to a lot of different industries, you can find a job that lets you move around. For me, I chose computer science because as a software engineer I've been able to change many times in my career; from research, to healthcare, to search and now design and education.
If money is difficult, then a remote job to support your learning is a great idea. Money does open up a lot of opportunities to find what you want later in life, but I wouldn't recommend seeking money for moneys sake, just because you'll eventually find your work unfulfilling and need to start this journey again finding yourself.
Hermione Carsten
Program Manager
9
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Hermione’s Answer
"What do I really want to do" is a hard question to find the answer for yourself. I'm over 40, I've done many different jobs and types of work. There's something fun about almost all of them, and lots that's not for each. I like the work I'm doing now, but I'm still thinking about what might be even better - have more of the things that motivate me. Some people have a strong draw to a single thing and it works for them for a long time -possibly the rest of their lives. My Dad got into a field he was interested in, and discovered an aptitude for a particular piece of the field he enjoyed that most people in his field hated. He's been steadily advancing the state of the art in that space ever since. I'm more than a little jealous.
I have an advantage that a lot of the things I love doing (problem solving, process thinking, helping the people I work with learn and grow) can be found in many different jobs, I've been very flexible and satisfied for a while doing many different things. At the same time, I don't find my work quite as rewarding as my dad finds his. I've decided it's OK to take a "continuous improvement" approach to the work I do. As I learn more about what I love and what's important to me, I look for roles that will give me more of that, or work to change my existing job to do more of the things I love. Also, what matters to me has changed over time, and so has my level of passion for different things. I periodically go through exercises to decide what I love now, and what I'd like to try next.
This manga was the most helpful to give me the outline of finding work I love: http://www.johnnybunko.com/. The big pieces for me were recognizing the things I enjoy doing, working out what my strengths are, and finding the intersection between those two things and what's valuable to others. Each of those steps can be a lot of work. The book doesn't give instructions on how, but it does help clarify how these things fit together.
There's a lot of books, training and coaching on finding your strengths - https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/home.aspx, https://www.myersbriggs.org/, https://www.insights.com/us/products/insights-discovery/ for example. Your school may have other options, or discounts for standard tests. For finding out what you love, you can look online for things like "Exercises to find what I love to do". My best exercise was to try things and pay attention to even the smallest moment when I felt great about it, found myself "sucked in" to part of the work, or thought "that was fun!". Then ask myself what exactly about the thing made me feel good.
Spend time on things that look fun or interesting that don't cost much. There can be aspects of hobbies that can come up in other jobs in ways that aren't obvious at first. I loved acting and got a theater degree. I use the skills I learned to understand other people every day in the IT program management work I do now. One of the most rewarding and valuable parts of my job is helping people understand each other to move the business to a common goal.
See what your school offers for tests or programs to help identify your strengths and interests.
Spend time trying things that look fun or rewarding.
Pay attention to the things you do now that makes you happy or proud. Think about why.
I have an advantage that a lot of the things I love doing (problem solving, process thinking, helping the people I work with learn and grow) can be found in many different jobs, I've been very flexible and satisfied for a while doing many different things. At the same time, I don't find my work quite as rewarding as my dad finds his. I've decided it's OK to take a "continuous improvement" approach to the work I do. As I learn more about what I love and what's important to me, I look for roles that will give me more of that, or work to change my existing job to do more of the things I love. Also, what matters to me has changed over time, and so has my level of passion for different things. I periodically go through exercises to decide what I love now, and what I'd like to try next.
This manga was the most helpful to give me the outline of finding work I love: http://www.johnnybunko.com/. The big pieces for me were recognizing the things I enjoy doing, working out what my strengths are, and finding the intersection between those two things and what's valuable to others. Each of those steps can be a lot of work. The book doesn't give instructions on how, but it does help clarify how these things fit together.
There's a lot of books, training and coaching on finding your strengths - https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/home.aspx, https://www.myersbriggs.org/, https://www.insights.com/us/products/insights-discovery/ for example. Your school may have other options, or discounts for standard tests. For finding out what you love, you can look online for things like "Exercises to find what I love to do". My best exercise was to try things and pay attention to even the smallest moment when I felt great about it, found myself "sucked in" to part of the work, or thought "that was fun!". Then ask myself what exactly about the thing made me feel good.
Spend time on things that look fun or interesting that don't cost much. There can be aspects of hobbies that can come up in other jobs in ways that aren't obvious at first. I loved acting and got a theater degree. I use the skills I learned to understand other people every day in the IT program management work I do now. One of the most rewarding and valuable parts of my job is helping people understand each other to move the business to a common goal.
Hermione recommends the following next steps:
Kate Spalla
Technical Product Manager
8
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kate’s Answer
Many jobs in the digital accessibility industry are remote, because they are supportive of people with disabilities who may prefer to work from home. You don't need to have a disability, all perspectives are welcoming. It's a great industry to work in with great missions.