3 answers
Jocelyn
Student
East Helena, Montana
1
Question
Asked
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How can I begin thinking about my future career as a Freshman?
How can I begin thinking about my future career as a Freshman? I picked classes relating to my interest in Business, is this enough or should I do more?
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3 answers
Nathaniel Swan
chiropractor
33
Answers
Kirkland, Washington
Updated
Nathaniel’s Answer
It's not thinking about your future as much as it is about focusing on the present. What kind of human do you admire and wish to emulate? You really need to begin finding out what brings you joy. Doing some career shadowing would be great. You might "think" you need to further your education, however, some jobs don't require it and many retire with a wonderful retirement plan and have years to express themselves in other ways. I am a chiropractor, but along the way, I developed skills in art, gardening, cooking, photography, exercise, and teaching. All have made a more interesting character on top of being a doctor. You've Got this!!
Jody Muniz, P.E.
Project Manager / Forensic Engineer
21
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Jody’s Answer
Hi Jocelyn, I'm here to share some friendly advice at no cost. The initial two years of college are usually fundamental studies. Therefore, my suggestion is to take advantage of the foundational courses that are applicable to various degree programs. Given the skyrocketing expenses of education, it's not sensible for the average person to squander time on courses that don't contribute to their degree. Always strive for more, keep scaling the next mountain in your path, and never cease to grow and acquire new skills.
I advise you to seek internships for some practical experience before you graduate. This will also expose you to real business environments and problem-solving scenarios. I gained a wealth of knowledge just by attending staff meetings and listening to seasoned professionals discuss their challenges and share their problem-solving strategies.
Step out of your comfort zone and get involved in clubs where you can connect with people who share your interests and ambitions. Start building your network now and continue to expand it over time. I also encourage you to join the student International Toastmasters club and work on honing your communication and public speaking skills. I became a member of Toastmasters during my time at NASA, and it transformed my life for a mere $10 per month. Regardless of where your journey takes you, it's crucial to learn how to confidently communicate with professionals. This skill won't develop overnight and can't be purchased off the shelf, so it's best to start now and progress at your own pace.
Looking back, my college days were filled with joy. My setbacks were the result of my own poor planning, ineffective study habits, and mismanagement of time for self-improvement. I didn't invest in learning how to interview and present myself professionally. Years later, I landed a temporary contract job at NASA by simply knocking on their door, which eventually led to a permanent position for a decade. However, they eventually laid me off and revoked my security badge.
I then transitioned into self-employment as a "consultant", a role I still hold today. I've recently accepted a contract position that pays me an annual salary of $150K to assist with infrastructure projects. I'm excited to embark on this new adventure and earn a handsome income. Of course, there's always the chance I could fail and be let go - that's the nature of contract positions. But I'm determined to do everything within my power to succeed.
My past mistakes led me to NASA, and I learned a valuable lesson: learn from your own mistakes and those of others. Treat everyone with respect and maintain professionalism. Your success will be determined by the choices you make and the challenges you embrace. I'm cheering for you, Jocelyn! I have no doubt that you'll find success.
Make a list of Companies you think you want to work for
Research their websites for career positions that are listed their
Copy and paste the job descriptions of jobs that interest you. Make a list of the job requirements and job skills they are seeking
Make an outline of how you can grow and develop the marketable skills these companies are looking for.
And I recommend you learn how to grow and develop self confidence in your abilities to grow and become a valuable employee for any company
I advise you to seek internships for some practical experience before you graduate. This will also expose you to real business environments and problem-solving scenarios. I gained a wealth of knowledge just by attending staff meetings and listening to seasoned professionals discuss their challenges and share their problem-solving strategies.
Step out of your comfort zone and get involved in clubs where you can connect with people who share your interests and ambitions. Start building your network now and continue to expand it over time. I also encourage you to join the student International Toastmasters club and work on honing your communication and public speaking skills. I became a member of Toastmasters during my time at NASA, and it transformed my life for a mere $10 per month. Regardless of where your journey takes you, it's crucial to learn how to confidently communicate with professionals. This skill won't develop overnight and can't be purchased off the shelf, so it's best to start now and progress at your own pace.
Looking back, my college days were filled with joy. My setbacks were the result of my own poor planning, ineffective study habits, and mismanagement of time for self-improvement. I didn't invest in learning how to interview and present myself professionally. Years later, I landed a temporary contract job at NASA by simply knocking on their door, which eventually led to a permanent position for a decade. However, they eventually laid me off and revoked my security badge.
I then transitioned into self-employment as a "consultant", a role I still hold today. I've recently accepted a contract position that pays me an annual salary of $150K to assist with infrastructure projects. I'm excited to embark on this new adventure and earn a handsome income. Of course, there's always the chance I could fail and be let go - that's the nature of contract positions. But I'm determined to do everything within my power to succeed.
My past mistakes led me to NASA, and I learned a valuable lesson: learn from your own mistakes and those of others. Treat everyone with respect and maintain professionalism. Your success will be determined by the choices you make and the challenges you embrace. I'm cheering for you, Jocelyn! I have no doubt that you'll find success.
Jody recommends the following next steps:
Mustabsheera Vengus
GMBPsS 🎓 | Aspiring Psychologist | Behavior Therapist | Counselor | Mentor
38
Answers
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Updated
Mustabsheera’s Answer
As a freshman, it's never too early to start thinking about your future career. Here are some steps you can take to begin exploring and planning for your career:
Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your interests, values, skills, and strengths. Consider what subjects or activities excite you the most and what you are naturally good at. This self-awareness will help you align your career goals with your personal attributes and passions.
Research Potential Careers: Start researching different career paths and industries that align with your interests. Look into job descriptions, required skills and qualifications, salary ranges, and growth opportunities. Websites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professional association websites, and career exploration platforms can provide valuable information.
Utilize Career Services: Visit your college's career services center or department early on. They can provide guidance, resources, and workshops to help you explore career options, develop job-search strategies, and improve your resume and interviewing skills. Take advantage of career counseling sessions and career assessment tools they may offer.
Networking: Begin building your professional network by connecting with professors, career advisors, alumni, and professionals in fields of interest. Attend career fairs, industry events, and networking sessions to meet professionals and learn more about potential careers. Join relevant student organizations or clubs to meet peers with similar interests.
Seek Internship or Part-Time Opportunities: Look for internships, co-op programs, or part-time jobs in your field of interest. These experiences can provide valuable insights into your chosen industry, help you develop relevant skills, and build your resume. Even if you can't find a position directly related to your field, any work experience can provide transferable skills.
Informational Interviews and Shadowing: Reach out to professionals in your desired field and request informational interviews or job shadowing opportunities. These interactions can give you firsthand knowledge about the day-to-day tasks, challenges, and rewards of a particular career. Ask questions, observe their work environment, and make connections.
Take Relevant Courses and Explore Electives: As you plan your course schedule, include classes that are related to your potential career interests. This will help you gain a deeper understanding of those fields and build relevant skills. Don't be afraid to explore different disciplines to broaden your perspective and discover new interests.
Remember, career exploration is an ongoing process, and your goals may evolve as you gain more experiences and knowledge. Stay open-minded, seek guidance from mentors, and be proactive in seeking opportunities to learn and grow professionally.
Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your interests, values, skills, and strengths. Consider what subjects or activities excite you the most and what you are naturally good at. This self-awareness will help you align your career goals with your personal attributes and passions.
Research Potential Careers: Start researching different career paths and industries that align with your interests. Look into job descriptions, required skills and qualifications, salary ranges, and growth opportunities. Websites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professional association websites, and career exploration platforms can provide valuable information.
Utilize Career Services: Visit your college's career services center or department early on. They can provide guidance, resources, and workshops to help you explore career options, develop job-search strategies, and improve your resume and interviewing skills. Take advantage of career counseling sessions and career assessment tools they may offer.
Networking: Begin building your professional network by connecting with professors, career advisors, alumni, and professionals in fields of interest. Attend career fairs, industry events, and networking sessions to meet professionals and learn more about potential careers. Join relevant student organizations or clubs to meet peers with similar interests.
Seek Internship or Part-Time Opportunities: Look for internships, co-op programs, or part-time jobs in your field of interest. These experiences can provide valuable insights into your chosen industry, help you develop relevant skills, and build your resume. Even if you can't find a position directly related to your field, any work experience can provide transferable skills.
Informational Interviews and Shadowing: Reach out to professionals in your desired field and request informational interviews or job shadowing opportunities. These interactions can give you firsthand knowledge about the day-to-day tasks, challenges, and rewards of a particular career. Ask questions, observe their work environment, and make connections.
Take Relevant Courses and Explore Electives: As you plan your course schedule, include classes that are related to your potential career interests. This will help you gain a deeper understanding of those fields and build relevant skills. Don't be afraid to explore different disciplines to broaden your perspective and discover new interests.
Remember, career exploration is an ongoing process, and your goals may evolve as you gain more experiences and knowledge. Stay open-minded, seek guidance from mentors, and be proactive in seeking opportunities to learn and grow professionally.