4 answers
Bryce
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
7
Questions
Updated
325 views
How important was making a high paying salary to your career choice and why?
I am interested in ranching, automotive technician or farm equipment technician.
More questions:
- Do you feel you made the correct career choice right away? Do you have any regrets? Would’ve you done anything differently?
- Did you live in the dorms or off campus? What are the pros and cons of those choices?
- How many times did you switch your major before you chose one?
- What field did you go into and were you able to find a job right away?
- How big of a student loan did you have to take out? How did you pay for college?
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4 answers
Tracey Horan
Product Manager
1
Answer
Ashburn, Virginia
Updated
Tracey’s Answer
Hi Bryce:
I wish life came with an instruction book or a crystal ball!
Take a big breath and then exhale because the good news is, you don't have to have all the answers right now. When you stop and think for a minute, you will be working for 30-40 years. That is a long time and many people have second/third/multiple careers and find success with each path.
That was and still is my situation. I started college as an English major but graduated with a degree in international relations - which sort of answers another of your questions, I changed my major once. Then I went on to earn a Master's degree in international relations as well. After working in that field for several years, for various reasons it was not a path I wanted to continue so I went back to school and earned a different Master's degree in business. Now that I've worked in the telecommunications field for many years, I am about to embark on a third career as a fitness instructor/personal trainer.
Another reason to keep an open mind about your future career path is that the future will change and introduce entirely new careers that don't even exist now. When I was your age, social influencers, web-site designers and digital marketers didn't even exist.
So my recommendation is that you a) always keep an open mind and be curious and b) you build solid skills that will transfer to many careers. I do recommend majoring in something however and not just getting a general studies degree. I also recommend finishing in 4 years if that is financially possible for you. School can only prepare you for so much, getting out, joining the workforce and earning a paycheck is a whole different experience.
What would I have done differently? Similar to James's advice, I wish I had talked to more people! You've listed a couple of different paths that interest you, so use this site or similar resources, and ask people who have a job in one of those fields that you think might be interesting. Ask them what their typical day is like, what they like best about their current job and what skills they consider most important to their success. As you decide on a school, that school will have alumnae who are also happy to talk to students. Most people like talking about this so don't be shy.
Dorm or off-campus housing? I lived in a dorm all 4 years. It was more convenient and I didn't have to worry about rent, what to do when the school year was finished, paying utilities or any of that. Living on campus also typically makes it easier to participate fully in the many activities that will be available.
Student loans are best kept small. There are several things you can do to limit how much you have to borrow. Many people advise spending the first year or two at a community college. All schools are going to make you go through similar general classes. You can cover those in a community college and then transfer to a 4-year school to complete the classes specific to your major. Carefully consider which schools you want to attend. A big name university may sound exciting but for many careers, where you went to school doesn't matter as much when it comes to landing a job. I was asked about my school for my first job and then nobody ever asked again. A less well known school can still give you a great education at a smaller price tag. Definitely explore scholarships, even small ones help. Another option is to have a part-time job while in school, you will just need to be very disciplined with your time management to handle both. Part of your college experience absolutely involves learning how to live independently and managing your money is a super important skill. Do take the time to understand what your final payments will look like. As you evaluate loans the estimated monthly payment should be included in the paperwork. You can use sites like Glassdoor to find salary ranges for different jobs that sound interesting to you, and then do some quick math to work out how that salary divides into 12 months and whether that will cover the monthly loan payment. Don't forget that you don't get 100% of your paycheck, FICA and taxes are taken out and they eat into what you finally bring home.
So again, breathe! You don't have to figure out the next 40 years, you just need to figure out maybe the next 5-10. Pursue something that interests you now, develop a well-rounded background with lots of transferable skills and be open to new possibilities.
Good luck!
Tracey
I wish life came with an instruction book or a crystal ball!
Take a big breath and then exhale because the good news is, you don't have to have all the answers right now. When you stop and think for a minute, you will be working for 30-40 years. That is a long time and many people have second/third/multiple careers and find success with each path.
That was and still is my situation. I started college as an English major but graduated with a degree in international relations - which sort of answers another of your questions, I changed my major once. Then I went on to earn a Master's degree in international relations as well. After working in that field for several years, for various reasons it was not a path I wanted to continue so I went back to school and earned a different Master's degree in business. Now that I've worked in the telecommunications field for many years, I am about to embark on a third career as a fitness instructor/personal trainer.
Another reason to keep an open mind about your future career path is that the future will change and introduce entirely new careers that don't even exist now. When I was your age, social influencers, web-site designers and digital marketers didn't even exist.
So my recommendation is that you a) always keep an open mind and be curious and b) you build solid skills that will transfer to many careers. I do recommend majoring in something however and not just getting a general studies degree. I also recommend finishing in 4 years if that is financially possible for you. School can only prepare you for so much, getting out, joining the workforce and earning a paycheck is a whole different experience.
What would I have done differently? Similar to James's advice, I wish I had talked to more people! You've listed a couple of different paths that interest you, so use this site or similar resources, and ask people who have a job in one of those fields that you think might be interesting. Ask them what their typical day is like, what they like best about their current job and what skills they consider most important to their success. As you decide on a school, that school will have alumnae who are also happy to talk to students. Most people like talking about this so don't be shy.
Dorm or off-campus housing? I lived in a dorm all 4 years. It was more convenient and I didn't have to worry about rent, what to do when the school year was finished, paying utilities or any of that. Living on campus also typically makes it easier to participate fully in the many activities that will be available.
Student loans are best kept small. There are several things you can do to limit how much you have to borrow. Many people advise spending the first year or two at a community college. All schools are going to make you go through similar general classes. You can cover those in a community college and then transfer to a 4-year school to complete the classes specific to your major. Carefully consider which schools you want to attend. A big name university may sound exciting but for many careers, where you went to school doesn't matter as much when it comes to landing a job. I was asked about my school for my first job and then nobody ever asked again. A less well known school can still give you a great education at a smaller price tag. Definitely explore scholarships, even small ones help. Another option is to have a part-time job while in school, you will just need to be very disciplined with your time management to handle both. Part of your college experience absolutely involves learning how to live independently and managing your money is a super important skill. Do take the time to understand what your final payments will look like. As you evaluate loans the estimated monthly payment should be included in the paperwork. You can use sites like Glassdoor to find salary ranges for different jobs that sound interesting to you, and then do some quick math to work out how that salary divides into 12 months and whether that will cover the monthly loan payment. Don't forget that you don't get 100% of your paycheck, FICA and taxes are taken out and they eat into what you finally bring home.
So again, breathe! You don't have to figure out the next 40 years, you just need to figure out maybe the next 5-10. Pursue something that interests you now, develop a well-rounded background with lots of transferable skills and be open to new possibilities.
Good luck!
Tracey
Saumya Shridhar
Investigations Counsel / Litigator
8
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Saumya’s Answer
Hi Bryce, I am Saumya Shridhar- a lawyer based in India.
To answer your questions:
1. Career choice
- Career choices and the factors that impact these choices vary for each and every individual. There is no right or wrong path in this decision. What's most important is to choose something that excites you as a long term goal and is also a viable option to pursue given the opportunities/ resources etc. available to you. It may or may not be the first major you choose or the first career decision you take. It is alright to make mistakes and be confused and it's best to take counseling in some cases too. (It's great that you already know what your interest areas are.)
-I chose to pursue law, since the field of environment and sustainability interested me as a school going kid, and law seemed to me like the best way to make a difference on the ground.
2. College
- The right choice of college may be a feature of varied and multiple factors for each person; such as the school rankings, area of study, flexibility in the curriculum (for changing majors etc.), internship programs and external tie ups, extra-curricular opportunities, tuition fee, proximity to home, among others factors.
- I did my graduate program in BA. LLB. Hons. (the law degree in India) from a national law school and made sure that through the 5 year course in law, my internships were tailored to a practice in the field of environmental law in the future. The right choice of repeated internships landed me a job in my 3rd year of college as an Associate in a boutique environmental law firm, which I went on to pursue after graduation. I stayed in dorm through college and it helped me make better friendships/ life long relations, participate in all activities on campus and never miss out- however, even off campus choices may be viable sometimes and have the same results (You may consider resources/ costs etc. as factors in your decision).
3. Job
- The decision making process in selecting a job is based on many criteria. It may be whether; 1) the job / work place aligns with your aim/ goal/ ideology; 2) gives you solid foundational training as a professional at the beginning of your career; 3) has a great working and growth environment / opportunity; 4) has some flexibility; 5) pays a decent salary. The salary component may be pivotal for your job selection based on your financial requirements and needs to repay a student loan. It does not always have to be the primary factor for your decision.
- My first job (environmental law) was everything that I had aimed to do at that point in my career. It is not an area that pays well in my country and it did not pay me well. However, it built for the me a strong professional foundation and ethic as a litigation lawyer in an area of my choice- a strength that I could later take to other work places.
Hope the above helps you !
Cheers!
Saumya
To answer your questions:
1. Career choice
- Career choices and the factors that impact these choices vary for each and every individual. There is no right or wrong path in this decision. What's most important is to choose something that excites you as a long term goal and is also a viable option to pursue given the opportunities/ resources etc. available to you. It may or may not be the first major you choose or the first career decision you take. It is alright to make mistakes and be confused and it's best to take counseling in some cases too. (It's great that you already know what your interest areas are.)
-I chose to pursue law, since the field of environment and sustainability interested me as a school going kid, and law seemed to me like the best way to make a difference on the ground.
2. College
- The right choice of college may be a feature of varied and multiple factors for each person; such as the school rankings, area of study, flexibility in the curriculum (for changing majors etc.), internship programs and external tie ups, extra-curricular opportunities, tuition fee, proximity to home, among others factors.
- I did my graduate program in BA. LLB. Hons. (the law degree in India) from a national law school and made sure that through the 5 year course in law, my internships were tailored to a practice in the field of environmental law in the future. The right choice of repeated internships landed me a job in my 3rd year of college as an Associate in a boutique environmental law firm, which I went on to pursue after graduation. I stayed in dorm through college and it helped me make better friendships/ life long relations, participate in all activities on campus and never miss out- however, even off campus choices may be viable sometimes and have the same results (You may consider resources/ costs etc. as factors in your decision).
3. Job
- The decision making process in selecting a job is based on many criteria. It may be whether; 1) the job / work place aligns with your aim/ goal/ ideology; 2) gives you solid foundational training as a professional at the beginning of your career; 3) has a great working and growth environment / opportunity; 4) has some flexibility; 5) pays a decent salary. The salary component may be pivotal for your job selection based on your financial requirements and needs to repay a student loan. It does not always have to be the primary factor for your decision.
- My first job (environmental law) was everything that I had aimed to do at that point in my career. It is not an area that pays well in my country and it did not pay me well. However, it built for the me a strong professional foundation and ethic as a litigation lawyer in an area of my choice- a strength that I could later take to other work places.
Hope the above helps you !
Cheers!
Saumya
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3820
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hey Bryce!
Choosing a career path is a personal journey that varies for everyone. Some people prioritize a hefty paycheck, while others seek satisfaction and fulfillment from their work. This is true for all professions, including ranching, being an automotive technician, or a farm equipment technician. The value of a high salary can differ in each case.
It's common for people to dream of a lifestyle that requires a substantial income. Some might fancy a Lamborghini, which costs close to a million dollars. Add a luxury condo to the mix, and you're looking at a total of 5 million. Then there are the college fees for the kids and planning for retirement!
Ranching is a profession that's all about agriculture and taking care of livestock. As a rancher, you'll be responsible for running a ranch, raising and breeding animals, growing crops, and looking after the land. The income from ranching can vary, depending on things like the size of your ranch, where it's located, the current market, and your management skills. While some ranchers make a decent living, it's worth noting that many factors can affect profitability, like the weather or changes in the market.
Automotive technicians are experts in diagnosing, fixing, and maintaining vehicles. Your income in this field can be influenced by your experience, qualifications, area of expertise, and location. While some technicians earn a high salary, it's important to remember that you might start with a lower wage in an entry-level position. But with time and experience, you can move up in your career and potentially earn more.
Farm equipment technicians specialize in keeping agricultural machinery and equipment in top shape. Just like automotive technicians, their income can be affected by their experience, qualifications, area of expertise, and location. As you gain more experience and knowledge in any technical profession, you can expect your salary to increase over time.
When it comes to career satisfaction and regrets, it's a personal thing and varies from person to person. Some people feel they made the right career choice from the get-go and have no regrets, while others might wish they had done things differently. That's why it's so important to do your homework and explore different career paths before making a decision. You can seek advice from professionals in the field, conduct informational interviews, and gain practical experience through internships or job shadowing to get a better understanding.
When it comes to living arrangements during college, both dorms and off-campus housing have their advantages and disadvantages. Living in a dorm is convenient, puts you close to campus resources, and gives you plenty of chances to socialize with other students. Off-campus housing, on the other hand, offers more independence, privacy, and can potentially be cheaper. The choice between the two depends on what you prefer, your budget, and what options are available.
The number of times students change their majors before settling on one can vary a lot. Some people switch majors several times before finding the right one, while others stick to their initial choice throughout their college years. It's important to explore different fields of study, use academic advising services, and consider your personal interests and career goals when deciding on a major.
The career path you take after finishing your education can depend on your major and career goals. How quickly you find a job after graduation can also depend on things like market demand, where you live, your networking efforts, internships or co-op experiences, and your qualifications. Some fields might have a higher demand and offer more job opportunities right after graduation.
The amount of student loan you might need to take out can vary a lot, depending on things like tuition costs, financial aid packages, scholarships, and your personal financial situation. It's really important to think carefully about the financial implications of taking out student loans and look into other options like grants or part-time work to help pay for your education. Scholarships and financial aid programs can also help reduce the need for loans.
Here are the top 3 reference publications or domain names I used:
Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov) - Provides detailed data on various occupations including salary information.
College Board (www.collegeboard.org) - Offers resources and information on planning for college, financial aid, and exploring careers.
U.S. Department of Agriculture (www.usda.gov) - Provides insights into the agricultural industry, including information on ranching and farming.
May you be blessed in abundance!
James Constantine.
Choosing a career path is a personal journey that varies for everyone. Some people prioritize a hefty paycheck, while others seek satisfaction and fulfillment from their work. This is true for all professions, including ranching, being an automotive technician, or a farm equipment technician. The value of a high salary can differ in each case.
It's common for people to dream of a lifestyle that requires a substantial income. Some might fancy a Lamborghini, which costs close to a million dollars. Add a luxury condo to the mix, and you're looking at a total of 5 million. Then there are the college fees for the kids and planning for retirement!
Ranching is a profession that's all about agriculture and taking care of livestock. As a rancher, you'll be responsible for running a ranch, raising and breeding animals, growing crops, and looking after the land. The income from ranching can vary, depending on things like the size of your ranch, where it's located, the current market, and your management skills. While some ranchers make a decent living, it's worth noting that many factors can affect profitability, like the weather or changes in the market.
Automotive technicians are experts in diagnosing, fixing, and maintaining vehicles. Your income in this field can be influenced by your experience, qualifications, area of expertise, and location. While some technicians earn a high salary, it's important to remember that you might start with a lower wage in an entry-level position. But with time and experience, you can move up in your career and potentially earn more.
Farm equipment technicians specialize in keeping agricultural machinery and equipment in top shape. Just like automotive technicians, their income can be affected by their experience, qualifications, area of expertise, and location. As you gain more experience and knowledge in any technical profession, you can expect your salary to increase over time.
When it comes to career satisfaction and regrets, it's a personal thing and varies from person to person. Some people feel they made the right career choice from the get-go and have no regrets, while others might wish they had done things differently. That's why it's so important to do your homework and explore different career paths before making a decision. You can seek advice from professionals in the field, conduct informational interviews, and gain practical experience through internships or job shadowing to get a better understanding.
When it comes to living arrangements during college, both dorms and off-campus housing have their advantages and disadvantages. Living in a dorm is convenient, puts you close to campus resources, and gives you plenty of chances to socialize with other students. Off-campus housing, on the other hand, offers more independence, privacy, and can potentially be cheaper. The choice between the two depends on what you prefer, your budget, and what options are available.
The number of times students change their majors before settling on one can vary a lot. Some people switch majors several times before finding the right one, while others stick to their initial choice throughout their college years. It's important to explore different fields of study, use academic advising services, and consider your personal interests and career goals when deciding on a major.
The career path you take after finishing your education can depend on your major and career goals. How quickly you find a job after graduation can also depend on things like market demand, where you live, your networking efforts, internships or co-op experiences, and your qualifications. Some fields might have a higher demand and offer more job opportunities right after graduation.
The amount of student loan you might need to take out can vary a lot, depending on things like tuition costs, financial aid packages, scholarships, and your personal financial situation. It's really important to think carefully about the financial implications of taking out student loans and look into other options like grants or part-time work to help pay for your education. Scholarships and financial aid programs can also help reduce the need for loans.
Here are the top 3 reference publications or domain names I used:
Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov) - Provides detailed data on various occupations including salary information.
College Board (www.collegeboard.org) - Offers resources and information on planning for college, financial aid, and exploring careers.
U.S. Department of Agriculture (www.usda.gov) - Provides insights into the agricultural industry, including information on ranching and farming.
May you be blessed in abundance!
James Constantine.
Louise Patrick MCIPD
HR Manager
5
Answers
Newcastle upon Tyne, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Louise’s Answer
The straightforward response is - pursue what brings you joy. Even a mountain of wealth can't bring happiness if you detest your work. Remember, it's always possible to switch careers. Your starting point doesn't dictate your destination.