5 answers
Corina
Student
Hamilton Township, New Jersey
1
Question
Asked
349 views
How do I know which career I want?
I think I want architecture but I'm not sure,
5 answers
Alan Weber
writer and retired teacher, teacher educator and academic advisor
207
Answers
Woodstock, New York
Updated
Alan’s Answer
You shouldn't expect to be sure, not at this early stage and, frankly, maybe not until you're actually in the field. You have to go with what seems right based on your interests, skills, ambitions and knowledge of the field. You don't have to commit to a major immediately. But you don't want to go too long before doing so, as you may have amassed classes that won't count toward the degree in the major you do decide on. You can meet with counselors, at your school and, when you're getting closer, at the colleges you might choose. You can look on the internet at the kinds of jobs that the field offers and what people say about them. You can take surveys, like the ones on MyPlan.com, that might help you gauge your interest in this field perhaps as opposed to other possible choices. When you're applying to colleges, there will be open houses, where you can meet with advisors and instructors in the curriculum to get some clarity about what you'd be taking and where it could lead you. Take things one step at a time. It's great that you already do have a reasonable idea of what you see yourself doing.
Praveen Prabhakar
Program Manager
48
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Praveen’s Answer
Choosing a career can be a complex and sometimes challenging process. Here are some steps to help you determine which career might be the best fit for you:
Self-Assessment:
Take the time to reflect on your interests, strengths, values, and passions. What activities do you enjoy? What are you naturally good at? What matters most to you in a job? This self-awareness can provide valuable insights into the types of careers that align with who you are.
Skills and Talents:
Identify your skills and talents. What are you skilled at doing? Consider both hard skills (specific technical skills) and soft skills (communication, problem-solving, teamwork, etc.). These skills can guide you toward careers where you can leverage your strengths.
Research and Exploration:
Explore various careers that match your interests and skills. Research different industries, job roles, and companies. Attend career fairs, workshops, and networking events to learn more about different career options.
Education and Training:
Consider whether your desired career requires a specific level of education or training. Some careers might require a formal degree, while others might prioritize certifications, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.
Talk to Professionals:
Reach out to people who are already working in the fields you're interested in. Conduct informational interviews to gain firsthand insights into what those careers entail and whether they align with your expectations.
Internships and Volunteering:
Participate in internships or volunteer opportunities related to the careers you're considering. These experiences can give you a taste of what it's like to work in a particular field and help you decide if it's the right fit.
Consider Work Environment:
Think about the type of work environment that suits you best. Do you prefer a structured office setting, remote work, a creative studio, or something else? Your comfort in a work environment can greatly impact your job satisfaction.
Long-Term Growth and Stability:
Assess the long-term prospects of the careers you're considering. Are there opportunities for growth and advancement? Is the field stable, or is it subject to rapid changes?
Financial Considerations:
While pursuing your passions is important, also consider the financial aspects. Will the career you're interested in provide the income you need to support your lifestyle and future goals?
Trial and Error:
Sometimes, you won't know if a career is truly right for you until you try it. If feasible, consider taking on part-time work, freelance projects, or side gigs related to your interests to test the waters before committing fully.
Seek Guidance:
Don't hesitate to seek advice from career counselors, mentors, teachers, family, and friends. They can offer different perspectives and insights that might help you make a more informed decision.
Remember that career decisions can evolve over time. It's okay to start in one field and transition to another as you learn more about yourself and your preferences. Be patient with yourself, and embrace the journey of self-discovery as you work toward finding a career that aligns with your passions and goals.
Self-Assessment:
Take the time to reflect on your interests, strengths, values, and passions. What activities do you enjoy? What are you naturally good at? What matters most to you in a job? This self-awareness can provide valuable insights into the types of careers that align with who you are.
Skills and Talents:
Identify your skills and talents. What are you skilled at doing? Consider both hard skills (specific technical skills) and soft skills (communication, problem-solving, teamwork, etc.). These skills can guide you toward careers where you can leverage your strengths.
Research and Exploration:
Explore various careers that match your interests and skills. Research different industries, job roles, and companies. Attend career fairs, workshops, and networking events to learn more about different career options.
Education and Training:
Consider whether your desired career requires a specific level of education or training. Some careers might require a formal degree, while others might prioritize certifications, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.
Talk to Professionals:
Reach out to people who are already working in the fields you're interested in. Conduct informational interviews to gain firsthand insights into what those careers entail and whether they align with your expectations.
Internships and Volunteering:
Participate in internships or volunteer opportunities related to the careers you're considering. These experiences can give you a taste of what it's like to work in a particular field and help you decide if it's the right fit.
Consider Work Environment:
Think about the type of work environment that suits you best. Do you prefer a structured office setting, remote work, a creative studio, or something else? Your comfort in a work environment can greatly impact your job satisfaction.
Long-Term Growth and Stability:
Assess the long-term prospects of the careers you're considering. Are there opportunities for growth and advancement? Is the field stable, or is it subject to rapid changes?
Financial Considerations:
While pursuing your passions is important, also consider the financial aspects. Will the career you're interested in provide the income you need to support your lifestyle and future goals?
Trial and Error:
Sometimes, you won't know if a career is truly right for you until you try it. If feasible, consider taking on part-time work, freelance projects, or side gigs related to your interests to test the waters before committing fully.
Seek Guidance:
Don't hesitate to seek advice from career counselors, mentors, teachers, family, and friends. They can offer different perspectives and insights that might help you make a more informed decision.
Remember that career decisions can evolve over time. It's okay to start in one field and transition to another as you learn more about yourself and your preferences. Be patient with yourself, and embrace the journey of self-discovery as you work toward finding a career that aligns with your passions and goals.
Jessica Gegner
Change Partner Senior
75
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Well, maybe you should consider why architecture sparks your interest in the first place. People are drawn to careers for countless reasons. Perhaps you're looking to transform a hobby or passion into a profitable venture. Maybe your goal is to contribute to society and make a positive impact. Or, you might be driven by the desire to achieve wealth and fame. Everyone has unique life and career objectives, so it's vital to identify yours.
I had the opportunity to work in an architecture firm (not as an architect, but in close collaboration with them). The profession of architecture demands artistic flair, design prowess with an emphasis on the principle of form following function, proficiency in AutoCAD (which can be learned in college), and a strong grasp of advanced mathematics, particularly geometry and trigonometry. Successful architects often receive impressive salaries and have the chance to establish a reputation by designing structures around the world. The architecture firm I was part of specialized in crafting designs for the entertainment and hospitality sectors, creating hotel resorts in various countries and the Hakkasan Night Club in Las Vegas (which held the record for being the world's largest nightclub at the time of its construction, standing at five stories high). If such endeavors excite you, architecture could be the perfect career path for you!
I had the opportunity to work in an architecture firm (not as an architect, but in close collaboration with them). The profession of architecture demands artistic flair, design prowess with an emphasis on the principle of form following function, proficiency in AutoCAD (which can be learned in college), and a strong grasp of advanced mathematics, particularly geometry and trigonometry. Successful architects often receive impressive salaries and have the chance to establish a reputation by designing structures around the world. The architecture firm I was part of specialized in crafting designs for the entertainment and hospitality sectors, creating hotel resorts in various countries and the Hakkasan Night Club in Las Vegas (which held the record for being the world's largest nightclub at the time of its construction, standing at five stories high). If such endeavors excite you, architecture could be the perfect career path for you!
Keyston Rice
Supervisor
180
Answers
Lawrence, IN
Updated
Keyston’s Answer
It's great that you're considering architecture! Take some time to explore it – maybe do some research or even find opportunities to shadow an architect. I didn't go to college, but I found my passion through hands-on experience. Trust your instincts, and remember, sometimes the best path is the one you carve yourself.
Lana Lekarinou
Filmmaker
4
Answers
Clearwater, Florida
Updated
Lana’s Answer
I started out studying Architecture but later switched to interior design. I value my artistic abilities and how they were enhanced during my studies. In my short film "The Sparkle" I featured a woman who only wished to keep her sketchbooks when everyone thought she had jewels in her bag.
I treasure my sketchbooks and found architecture was and is a part of me I take everywhere I go and it makes it all so much better when I can do a quick sketch of a structure, there is such pleasure in it.
I never did like working at an office however but love helping friends and family remodel their homes.
Later when I transitions to filmmaking and made my own short film, I won many artistic awards and my style and camera frames were noted. When asked about this I realized it was my training in architecture that allowed me to develop such a keen eye.
So what I'm saying is you can never go wrong studying something you like, something that inspires you, because eventually you will make use of it, perhaps even in ways you never anticipated, and it will always be rewarding.
I treasure my sketchbooks and found architecture was and is a part of me I take everywhere I go and it makes it all so much better when I can do a quick sketch of a structure, there is such pleasure in it.
I never did like working at an office however but love helping friends and family remodel their homes.
Later when I transitions to filmmaking and made my own short film, I won many artistic awards and my style and camera frames were noted. When asked about this I realized it was my training in architecture that allowed me to develop such a keen eye.
So what I'm saying is you can never go wrong studying something you like, something that inspires you, because eventually you will make use of it, perhaps even in ways you never anticipated, and it will always be rewarding.
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