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How to choose a career path with a wide range of interests?

I am a psych major in my freshman year of college, and do not know what career path to pursue. I am interested in behavioral psychology, criminal justice, interior architecture, music production, and research journalism, and have no idea how to narrow down what I want to actually pursue.

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Keri’s Answer

There is some great advice already shared for your question. I would add that as you are narrowing down your passion areas, think about what you want to do for the first 5 years after you graduate. Think of your career in 5 year increments. It is very rare you will retire from the same job that you started your career in. I'm on my 3rd career -- was a psychology major/social work minor -- and have been working for 25+ years.
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Marlyce’s Answer

Hi Camryn,

Have you considered reaching out to a college counselor? They're a valuable resource that could provide some guidance. Look into the possibility of job shadowing in an area that piques your interest the most.

Consider joining clubs or groups, either in person or online. This will not only help you explore your interests, but also expand your network. Remember, it's perfectly fine to change your path along the way. The beauty of life is that we have the freedom to choose our own paths.

Remember, your happiness is paramount, so feel free to make choices that bring you joy. Wishing you all the best on your journey.
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Logan’s Answer

Good question that I'm sure a lot of people can relate to! (myself included)

I think a good thing to do is find student organizations in your university that relate to your interests and hobbies. It's a good way to get some experience with whatever that organization is about, as well as make some friends! For example with music production, many colleges have their own radio stations so you could see if your school has one and join if they do! Especially if you're going to a larger university, there will be many student groups for a wide variety of different interests and hobbies, so take some time to look around, you may be surprised!
I also think it's a good idea to begin talking with professors you like and who teach the subjects you enjoy. They may have some volunteer work that you could help with. That is another to get experience as well as form connections, which will help you out in the long run!
Finding jobs and/or volunteer positions is another good way to get some experience. Look for student opportunities, ask any professors or your advisor for any that may be of interest!
You still have plenty of time to find out who you are and what makes you happy! That, in my opinion, is what the first 2 years of college is for! Take advantage of the opportunities and put yourself out there! You got this!
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you have a wide range of interest. However, you may consider to shortlist 1-2 careers you have the most interest and the relevant subjects to be your major and minor in the college.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about the relevant careers of your interest
Eg do you want to be singer, musician, psychologist, interior designer, lawyer, judge, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
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Robert’s Answer

I would def. recommend volunteering or working part-time within a field you might be considering. Research those careers you are contemplating as much as possible. It sounds like your very busy so I know its difficult. You want to get as much real-world experiences in workplaces you are considering. Nothing is ever how you imagine to be,believe me. But get out there & see what the work is REALLY like any ways you can. Good Luck to you in your pursuits.
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Rebecca’s Answer

What truly ignites your passion and brings you daily joy? The most impactful wisdom I received during my tenure at Massage School was, "You have the power to transform this into either a job or a career. The choice is yours." I encourage you to listen to your heart. Don't forget to thoroughly research your options. Wishing you all the best on your journey!
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Enise’s Answer

Hello there,

I know it sounds crazy when it comes to deciding which is the best one you can pursue your career. You may consider it as difficult progression in your entire life. I used to struggle which major I ought to choose, now I a Creative Writing Graduate. So which are better for you, and which are ones that you less interested (research how university programmes with descriptions on their course pages and eliminate your majors that less interested). In terms of your academic years, think about your achievement, especially marks and degrees: which courses were your by far your favourite, and how you enjoyed taking X, Y, and Z courses in high school. You can write both interests and courses down and match with your majors. Likewise, if you have experienced volunteering, and/or internships, you may write your soft and hard skills, and emotional intelligence (match which skills you gained, which courses had you enjoyed learning, and which major will be the best for you?)

I hope this helps
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Sunil’s Answer

Kudos on being a multipotentialite Camryn! It's awesome that you have so many interests. A couple fo suggestions for you.

a) Look up the term "ikigai" online which is a great concept to identify your passion/career.
b) Given your varied interests, would suggest finding how you can bring them together into one area of pursuit that will differentiate you from others. For eg. behavioral psychology and criminal justice has an interesting intersection which would be interesting and could set you apart from others who only do 1 of those. Good luck to you Camryn! Rock on!
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Janis’s Answer

You're in a fortunate position with your wide range of interests, as this opens up a broader spectrum of opportunities. An effective strategy would be actively seeking out and applying for jobs or internships that spark your curiosity.

Although the process of attending numerous interviews might seem daunting, it's an invaluable learning experience that could shape your final decision.

Additionally, these interactions could lead to networking opportunities, potentially connecting you with other influential individuals in your fields of interest.
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Christopher’s Answer

Hi Camryn,

Congratulations on having such a wide range of interests. That's a good thing; especially as a freshman in college. I would recommend scheduling a meeting with someone in the job placement dept at your school. They will have ideas on steps you might take to narrow your options. Another proactive step would be to apply for an internship or volunteer in a field in which you have interest. This will give you the expose you need to help make educated decisions regarding career paths.

Good luck!
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