6 answers
kay
Student
Stafford, Virginia
1
Question
Asked
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What should I do if I don't have a clear career mindset?
I've got a question, I want to be in the business industry and I've been taking course classes for them but at the same time I want to the a doctor. I feel like i'm stuck.
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6 answers
Justin Mayle
Sales Leader
5
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Justin’s Answer
Hi Kay, I agree with Emily. And additionally, for what it's worth, I've talked and mentored many young professionals - and when I talk with them and look back on my own journey, none of us 'nailed it' because of the major we chose in undergrad. Do the things Emily mentioned to help you decide, then as you continue, college + work in your 20's, try things you're interested in, and slowly you'll ~Develop~ your passion(s) (not find it magically). Developing your life is like a pendulum swinging slower and slower, as you tinker and try things that interest you, you'll get closer and closer to a path you really enjoy. (it does take some years, though :) ...)
Emily Marjama
Pharmacy technician
6
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hi Kay!
It sounds like you're stuck in an incredibly difficult place when you've yet to start your career. Don't worry, most of us have been there. I'm not entirely sure what your drive is for wanting to pursue a medical degree or a business degree, maybe, if you haven't yet had the chance to dive into that, take a moment and consider if you are pursuing these things because you are passionate, or because there's pressure from outside sources telling you to be in these careers.
If you're not sure, that's okay. Try taking a few different courses in school that you wouldn't normally take. Challenge yourself. It may help you find something you're passionate about. Talk to your teachers or professors about why they chose to teach their subject. Sometimes hearing people talk about their passions brings out your own, sometimes it helps highlight your desire to learn something new.
When I was a freshman in college and I had applied as a pre-med with an anthropology major, my advisor told me to switch to Biology. I took one freshman class and I was hooked. In high school I hated science, but my professor at university was so beautifully passionate about the subject I couldn't let it go. It's okay to not know what you want, university is a time to explore and learn about yourself. Use those general education requirements to your advantage.
And don't panic, it's okay, you have time. You don't need to be settled into a career before you're 25. Explore yourself and try to enjoy what you're learning, everything will fall into place with time!
It sounds like you're stuck in an incredibly difficult place when you've yet to start your career. Don't worry, most of us have been there. I'm not entirely sure what your drive is for wanting to pursue a medical degree or a business degree, maybe, if you haven't yet had the chance to dive into that, take a moment and consider if you are pursuing these things because you are passionate, or because there's pressure from outside sources telling you to be in these careers.
If you're not sure, that's okay. Try taking a few different courses in school that you wouldn't normally take. Challenge yourself. It may help you find something you're passionate about. Talk to your teachers or professors about why they chose to teach their subject. Sometimes hearing people talk about their passions brings out your own, sometimes it helps highlight your desire to learn something new.
When I was a freshman in college and I had applied as a pre-med with an anthropology major, my advisor told me to switch to Biology. I took one freshman class and I was hooked. In high school I hated science, but my professor at university was so beautifully passionate about the subject I couldn't let it go. It's okay to not know what you want, university is a time to explore and learn about yourself. Use those general education requirements to your advantage.
And don't panic, it's okay, you have time. You don't need to be settled into a career before you're 25. Explore yourself and try to enjoy what you're learning, everything will fall into place with time!
Emily Marjama
Pharmacy technician
6
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hi Kay!
It sounds like you're stuck in an incredibly difficult place when you've yet to start your career. Don't worry, most of us have been there. I'm not entirely sure what your drive is for wanting to pursue a medical degree or a business degree, maybe, if you haven't yet has the chance to dive into that, take a moment and consider if you are pursuing these things because you are passionate, or because there's pressure being put on you to aim for these things.
If you're not sure, that's okay. Try taking a few different courses in school that you wouldn't normally take. Challenge yourself. It may help you find something you're passionate about. Talk to your teachers or professors about why they chose to teach their subject. Sometimes hearing people talk about their passions brings out your own, sometimes it helps highlight your desire to learn something new.
When I was a freshman in college and I had applied as a pre-med anthropology major, my advisor told me to switch to Biology. I took one freshman class and I was hooked. In high school I hated science, but my professor at university was so beautifully passionate about the subject I couldn't let it go. It's okay to not know what you want, university is a time to explore and learn about yourself. Use those general education requirements to your advantage.
And don't panic, it's okay, you have time. You don't need to be settled in a career before you're 25. Explore yourself and try to enjoy what you're learning, you'll be just fine!
It sounds like you're stuck in an incredibly difficult place when you've yet to start your career. Don't worry, most of us have been there. I'm not entirely sure what your drive is for wanting to pursue a medical degree or a business degree, maybe, if you haven't yet has the chance to dive into that, take a moment and consider if you are pursuing these things because you are passionate, or because there's pressure being put on you to aim for these things.
If you're not sure, that's okay. Try taking a few different courses in school that you wouldn't normally take. Challenge yourself. It may help you find something you're passionate about. Talk to your teachers or professors about why they chose to teach their subject. Sometimes hearing people talk about their passions brings out your own, sometimes it helps highlight your desire to learn something new.
When I was a freshman in college and I had applied as a pre-med anthropology major, my advisor told me to switch to Biology. I took one freshman class and I was hooked. In high school I hated science, but my professor at university was so beautifully passionate about the subject I couldn't let it go. It's okay to not know what you want, university is a time to explore and learn about yourself. Use those general education requirements to your advantage.
And don't panic, it's okay, you have time. You don't need to be settled in a career before you're 25. Explore yourself and try to enjoy what you're learning, you'll be just fine!
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Safa
Molly Hollingsworth
HR Clerk
80
Answers
Coppell, Texas
Updated
Molly’s Answer
Hello Kay!
This is a great question! Simply answered, I would recommend to step your foot into multiple areas. If you find that what you are currently in or studying does not satisfy and appeal to what you want to do in the future, then you can easily shift away from that one area and focus in another. In college, I knew that I wanted to focus my studies in general business. However, that is all I knew. After focusing my studies in multiple areas of business, I found my way into Human Resources where I currently am working in today. I received my MBA focusing specifically in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources, and currently have a position as an Human Resources Administrator for a Sam's Club distribution and fulfillment center. You will never know what you like until you dip your foot in the water and tread through several areas!
Dimply put, you do not have to settle on the first major that you decide. You never know what you'll find until you step your foot out there and test the waters!
I hope this helped, and good luck in your endeavors!
Thank You
Molly H.
This is a great question! Simply answered, I would recommend to step your foot into multiple areas. If you find that what you are currently in or studying does not satisfy and appeal to what you want to do in the future, then you can easily shift away from that one area and focus in another. In college, I knew that I wanted to focus my studies in general business. However, that is all I knew. After focusing my studies in multiple areas of business, I found my way into Human Resources where I currently am working in today. I received my MBA focusing specifically in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources, and currently have a position as an Human Resources Administrator for a Sam's Club distribution and fulfillment center. You will never know what you like until you dip your foot in the water and tread through several areas!
Dimply put, you do not have to settle on the first major that you decide. You never know what you'll find until you step your foot out there and test the waters!
I hope this helped, and good luck in your endeavors!
Thank You
Molly H.
Aasimah Hossain
Sustainable Impact
3
Answers
Brampton, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Aasimah’s Answer
Hello Kay,
Your question is indeed an excellent one! I, too, grappled with the challenge of steering my career in the right direction. One strategy I found immensely beneficial was gaining hands-on exposure in various fields that piqued my interest. This can be achieved through volunteering or participating in extra-curricular activities. Such experiences will provide you with a clearer perspective on what suits you best.
Additionally, a valuable method to gain insights into different careers is by engaging in conversations with professionals already working in the fields you're considering. Ask them about their daily routines, what aspects of their job they enjoy, and what parts they find challenging.
I genuinely hope you find this advice useful. Best of luck on your journey towards a fulfilling career!
Warm Regards,
Aasimah
Your question is indeed an excellent one! I, too, grappled with the challenge of steering my career in the right direction. One strategy I found immensely beneficial was gaining hands-on exposure in various fields that piqued my interest. This can be achieved through volunteering or participating in extra-curricular activities. Such experiences will provide you with a clearer perspective on what suits you best.
Additionally, a valuable method to gain insights into different careers is by engaging in conversations with professionals already working in the fields you're considering. Ask them about their daily routines, what aspects of their job they enjoy, and what parts they find challenging.
I genuinely hope you find this advice useful. Best of luck on your journey towards a fulfilling career!
Warm Regards,
Aasimah
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Feeling torn between two different career paths, like business and medicine, is a common challenge, and it's important to address it thoughtfully. Here are steps to help you navigate this situation:
**1. Self-Reflection:**
- Take some time for self-reflection. Consider what truly motivates you and where your passions lie. Think about your strengths, interests, and long-term goals.
**2. Research Both Fields:**
- Gain a deep understanding of both the business and medical professions. Research the educational requirements, work environments, and potential career paths within each field.
**3. Talk to Professionals:**
- Reach out to professionals in both industries. Seek informational interviews or shadowing opportunities to get a firsthand look at the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of each career.
**4. Consider Your Values:**
- Think about your values and what matters most to you in a career. For example, if you value helping others and making a direct impact on people's lives, medicine may align more with your values.
**5. Seek Guidance:**
- Talk to career counselors, mentors, or teachers who can provide guidance and insights based on your interests and strengths.
**6. Explore Hybrid Fields:**
- Explore career paths that combine aspects of both business and medicine. For example, healthcare administration, healthcare consulting, or medical entrepreneurship may allow you to leverage your interests in both areas.
**7. Assess Education Commitment:**
- Consider the educational commitment required for each field. Becoming a doctor involves many years of rigorous training, while business-related roles may have shorter educational paths. Assess your willingness and readiness for the educational journey.
**8. Take Your Time:**
- Don't rush your decision. It's okay to take your time exploring both interests before committing to one. You can always pivot or change directions later in your career if you discover new passions.
**9. Set Short-Term Goals:**
- Set short-term goals that allow you to explore both interests further. For example, you could continue taking business courses while also gaining healthcare experience through volunteering or internships.
**10. Weigh Pros and Cons:**
- Make a list of the pros and cons of each career path. Consider factors like job satisfaction, work-life balance, financial considerations, and the potential impact on your personal life.
**11. Trust Your Instincts:**
- Ultimately, trust your instincts and make a decision that aligns with your values, passions, and long-term goals. Remember that it's okay to change your mind as you gain more clarity.
**12. Stay Flexible:**
- Keep in mind that career paths are not always linear. Many professionals make transitions or combine their skills from multiple areas throughout their careers. Stay open to adapting and evolving as your interests evolve.
Remember that it's normal to feel uncertain about your career path, especially when you have diverse interests. Take one step at a time, gather experiences, and remain open to new opportunities. The key is to make informed decisions that align with your passions and values while also considering the practical aspects of each career path.
**1. Self-Reflection:**
- Take some time for self-reflection. Consider what truly motivates you and where your passions lie. Think about your strengths, interests, and long-term goals.
**2. Research Both Fields:**
- Gain a deep understanding of both the business and medical professions. Research the educational requirements, work environments, and potential career paths within each field.
**3. Talk to Professionals:**
- Reach out to professionals in both industries. Seek informational interviews or shadowing opportunities to get a firsthand look at the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of each career.
**4. Consider Your Values:**
- Think about your values and what matters most to you in a career. For example, if you value helping others and making a direct impact on people's lives, medicine may align more with your values.
**5. Seek Guidance:**
- Talk to career counselors, mentors, or teachers who can provide guidance and insights based on your interests and strengths.
**6. Explore Hybrid Fields:**
- Explore career paths that combine aspects of both business and medicine. For example, healthcare administration, healthcare consulting, or medical entrepreneurship may allow you to leverage your interests in both areas.
**7. Assess Education Commitment:**
- Consider the educational commitment required for each field. Becoming a doctor involves many years of rigorous training, while business-related roles may have shorter educational paths. Assess your willingness and readiness for the educational journey.
**8. Take Your Time:**
- Don't rush your decision. It's okay to take your time exploring both interests before committing to one. You can always pivot or change directions later in your career if you discover new passions.
**9. Set Short-Term Goals:**
- Set short-term goals that allow you to explore both interests further. For example, you could continue taking business courses while also gaining healthcare experience through volunteering or internships.
**10. Weigh Pros and Cons:**
- Make a list of the pros and cons of each career path. Consider factors like job satisfaction, work-life balance, financial considerations, and the potential impact on your personal life.
**11. Trust Your Instincts:**
- Ultimately, trust your instincts and make a decision that aligns with your values, passions, and long-term goals. Remember that it's okay to change your mind as you gain more clarity.
**12. Stay Flexible:**
- Keep in mind that career paths are not always linear. Many professionals make transitions or combine their skills from multiple areas throughout their careers. Stay open to adapting and evolving as your interests evolve.
Remember that it's normal to feel uncertain about your career path, especially when you have diverse interests. Take one step at a time, gather experiences, and remain open to new opportunities. The key is to make informed decisions that align with your passions and values while also considering the practical aspects of each career path.