7 answers
TaKari
Student
Saint Paul, Minnesota
1
Question
Updated
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How did you know that your career path was the right career for you?
Give me your best advice
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7 answers
Murph, Erlis
Academic Advisor
37
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Murph,’s Answer
I enjoyed doing what I was doing. I looked forward to going to work. If all things were equal and I was rich, I would do what I do for free.
Sean Taugher
Market Planning - Branch Site Selection
2
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Sean’s Answer
The good news is that your career path doesn't have to be something that is cut & dry / straight well-traveled. It doesn't even have to be established already. You are totally allow to create your own path so your career can go where you want it to go, and that path can be as twisty as you want/need it to be. After 15 years of exploration, I landed my "dream job" in my mid-30's. I didn't know this job even existed until after I finished college, and I had to cut a path that connected my college experience to where I am today.
How did I know I wanted to cut a path to get me here? It's pretty much what everyone already said - think about who you are and find a way to be "Your Authentic Self." What makes you unique? What subjects do you like to think about, and what kind of problems do you like to solve? What do you think is exciting? Maybe you like to think about social issues, or biology, or what makes weather dynamic. Maybe you like to solve problems that deliver new tools or technology to enhance the human experience, or solve problems that help animal food chains, or give clarity into what makes neighborhoods different. Maybe you think earthquakes, or chemistry, or mysteries from 1000 years ago, or old dusty books, or mathematical models, or culinary machines are exciting. If you work towards finding a job that highlights all your unique characteristics, then you'll know that the path you took to get there was the "right" career path.
How did I know I wanted to cut a path to get me here? It's pretty much what everyone already said - think about who you are and find a way to be "Your Authentic Self." What makes you unique? What subjects do you like to think about, and what kind of problems do you like to solve? What do you think is exciting? Maybe you like to think about social issues, or biology, or what makes weather dynamic. Maybe you like to solve problems that deliver new tools or technology to enhance the human experience, or solve problems that help animal food chains, or give clarity into what makes neighborhoods different. Maybe you think earthquakes, or chemistry, or mysteries from 1000 years ago, or old dusty books, or mathematical models, or culinary machines are exciting. If you work towards finding a job that highlights all your unique characteristics, then you'll know that the path you took to get there was the "right" career path.
Nancy Wall
Social Impact
5
Answers
Sunnyvale, California
Updated
Nancy’s Answer
At this point in your studies and career search, I would advise trying several different experiences such as volunteering where you think you are interested, offering to be an unpaid intern in some cases. In my case I searched for any opportunity where I could gain experience with the areas I was interested in until I found a good match where I wanted to purse my career. All jobs are learning opportunities, always take up the offer to expand learing through the actual employer and online courses to stay up to date in your field. Good Luck!
Valerie Tarwater
Quality Manager
3
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
Valerie’s Answer
I didn't know until I started. It's finding your niche.
Career paths are not set in stone. They change as you grow.
Enjoying one thing now may lead to something more interesting later.
Think about what you are interested in now, Whatever it is, may have many sub niches.
Look at those niches and you may what talks to you.
Always keep an open mind.
Career paths are not set in stone. They change as you grow.
Enjoying one thing now may lead to something more interesting later.
Think about what you are interested in now, Whatever it is, may have many sub niches.
Look at those niches and you may what talks to you.
Always keep an open mind.
Madisyn Dunlap
Forensic Consultant
193
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Madisyn’s Answer
Hi Takari,
I decided on my career path, Forensic Accounting, because I've been fascinated by investigations since I was young. During college, I pursued Accounting for my undergraduate degree and Forensic Accounting for my graduate studies. I found the courses in both programs to be engaging and enjoyable, which confirmed that I had made the right decision. Now, two years into my career, I continue to find fulfillment in my work.
I recommend identifying your interests and passions to help guide your career choice. Next, explore majors that align with those interests and give the classes a try. Remember, if you don't find them appealing, you can always explore other options.
Wishing you the best of luck!
I decided on my career path, Forensic Accounting, because I've been fascinated by investigations since I was young. During college, I pursued Accounting for my undergraduate degree and Forensic Accounting for my graduate studies. I found the courses in both programs to be engaging and enjoyable, which confirmed that I had made the right decision. Now, two years into my career, I continue to find fulfillment in my work.
I recommend identifying your interests and passions to help guide your career choice. Next, explore majors that align with those interests and give the classes a try. Remember, if you don't find them appealing, you can always explore other options.
Wishing you the best of luck!
Erin Guzman
Environment, Social and Governance work
3
Answers
Sunnyvale, California
Updated
Erin’s Answer
Hello,
It's truly uplifting to see Career Village providing guidance for students exploring their career options! I, too, was uncertain about my career path, but I had a passion for social justice, the positive impact of nonprofits, and criminal justice system reforms. After earning my degree in criminal justice, I gained valuable experience interning at various public institutions. Meanwhile, I worked part-time at a tech company to support my education costs. It was during my time in the private sector that I discovered an opportunity to work in corporate community relations. This role allowed me to combine my love for social sector work with practical business and program management skills.
My advice to you is to remain open-minded and adaptable to new opportunities. Pursue what brings you joy, while staying mindful of your personal needs and circumstances.
It's truly uplifting to see Career Village providing guidance for students exploring their career options! I, too, was uncertain about my career path, but I had a passion for social justice, the positive impact of nonprofits, and criminal justice system reforms. After earning my degree in criminal justice, I gained valuable experience interning at various public institutions. Meanwhile, I worked part-time at a tech company to support my education costs. It was during my time in the private sector that I discovered an opportunity to work in corporate community relations. This role allowed me to combine my love for social sector work with practical business and program management skills.
My advice to you is to remain open-minded and adaptable to new opportunities. Pursue what brings you joy, while staying mindful of your personal needs and circumstances.
Andrea Guidace
Learning & Development Program Manager
1
Answer
San Jose, California
Updated
Andrea’s Answer
In junior college, I actually found a part-time job in the student services/career services group and I took advantage of the free assessments and even purchased some on my own (Myers-Briggs & Strengths Finders). It helped me learn about my personality type and even recommended professions. It opened my eyes to jobs I didn't even know about. I also used job boards to see what types of positions were out there. Now it will be way easier for you to find a person in that role on LinkedIn and check out their degree, training experience, and past work experiences that led them there.
I loved event planning and I went to school to do events for professional sports teams, cities or organizations (B.S. Recreation Administration Systems Management). I had an internship in a convention planning company, went into recruiting and then landed in HR training and development where I manage global training operations and programs. All of which involve managing programs and people which I enjoy. I even was able to start my own wedding planning company while working in my career just as a side job.
Wishing you the best of luck and take advantage of building your network and being comfortable with switching gears. You are never stuck doing what you originally choose in your career.
I loved event planning and I went to school to do events for professional sports teams, cities or organizations (B.S. Recreation Administration Systems Management). I had an internship in a convention planning company, went into recruiting and then landed in HR training and development where I manage global training operations and programs. All of which involve managing programs and people which I enjoy. I even was able to start my own wedding planning company while working in my career just as a side job.
Wishing you the best of luck and take advantage of building your network and being comfortable with switching gears. You are never stuck doing what you originally choose in your career.