10 answers
Samantha
Student
Modesto, California
1
Question
Asked
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What is the best way to find out what you are passionate about, in order to choose the best possible major/career for my future?
I am interested in a medical career, but I am not sure what I am interested in being.
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10 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
657
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
It will have to be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway.
You used the word "passion" which is a good start, but as UCLA coach and mentor, John Wooden, used to say, "passion is only temporary, but love is something that lasts a lifetime."
So, you must do some reflection, and determine what you love to do in life so much, that if you received no compensation for doing it, you would still get up every day and enthusiatically go to work and do it anyway.
You used the word "passion" which is a good start, but as UCLA coach and mentor, John Wooden, used to say, "passion is only temporary, but love is something that lasts a lifetime."
So, you must do some reflection, and determine what you love to do in life so much, that if you received no compensation for doing it, you would still get up every day and enthusiatically go to work and do it anyway.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3824
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hey there, Samantha!
Discovering your passion and picking the ideal major or career for your future can be a thrilling journey of self-discovery and exploration. Here's a friendly guide to help you navigate this exciting path:
1. Know Thyself: Kick things off by taking a good look at your interests, values, and strengths, as well as areas you might need to work on. Think about what makes you happy and satisfied. What subjects or topics do you find yourself drawn to? What do you love learning about? There are lots of tools out there like career quizzes, personality tests, and self-reflection exercises that can help you with this.
2. Dive Deep: Once you've pinpointed some things that spark your interest, dive in! Read up on them, watch documentaries, and immerse yourself in learning. You could also volunteer or shadow professionals in different fields to get a real taste of what those careers are like.
3. Get Some Guidance: Don't hesitate to reach out to career advisors, mentors, or professionals in areas you're interested in. They've been where you are and can give you some great advice, share their stories, and give you a glimpse into what different careers are really like.
4. Be Adventurous: Don't shy away from new experiences. Try out different courses, join clubs or activities, or get an internship. You never know what you might fall in love with.
5. Reflect and Refine: As you go through this process, take some time to think about your experiences and how they make you feel. Keep refining your interests based on what really resonates with you.
6. Make a Difference: Think about the kind of difference you want to make in the world. How can your skills and interests help solve problems or improve people's lives?
7. Stay Flexible: Remember, career paths aren't always straight lines. It's totally fine to explore different interests before you decide on a specific major or career.
If you're thinking about a career in medicine, try exploring different specialties. You could do this by talking to professionals, going to career fairs, or getting involved in activities related to medicine.
Finding your passion is a journey that can take time and might change as you grow and have new experiences. The key is to keep an open mind and be ready to adapt as you go along.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
Harvard Business Review
American Psychological Association (APA)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Wishing you all the best on your journey!
James.
Discovering your passion and picking the ideal major or career for your future can be a thrilling journey of self-discovery and exploration. Here's a friendly guide to help you navigate this exciting path:
1. Know Thyself: Kick things off by taking a good look at your interests, values, and strengths, as well as areas you might need to work on. Think about what makes you happy and satisfied. What subjects or topics do you find yourself drawn to? What do you love learning about? There are lots of tools out there like career quizzes, personality tests, and self-reflection exercises that can help you with this.
2. Dive Deep: Once you've pinpointed some things that spark your interest, dive in! Read up on them, watch documentaries, and immerse yourself in learning. You could also volunteer or shadow professionals in different fields to get a real taste of what those careers are like.
3. Get Some Guidance: Don't hesitate to reach out to career advisors, mentors, or professionals in areas you're interested in. They've been where you are and can give you some great advice, share their stories, and give you a glimpse into what different careers are really like.
4. Be Adventurous: Don't shy away from new experiences. Try out different courses, join clubs or activities, or get an internship. You never know what you might fall in love with.
5. Reflect and Refine: As you go through this process, take some time to think about your experiences and how they make you feel. Keep refining your interests based on what really resonates with you.
6. Make a Difference: Think about the kind of difference you want to make in the world. How can your skills and interests help solve problems or improve people's lives?
7. Stay Flexible: Remember, career paths aren't always straight lines. It's totally fine to explore different interests before you decide on a specific major or career.
If you're thinking about a career in medicine, try exploring different specialties. You could do this by talking to professionals, going to career fairs, or getting involved in activities related to medicine.
Finding your passion is a journey that can take time and might change as you grow and have new experiences. The key is to keep an open mind and be ready to adapt as you go along.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
Harvard Business Review
American Psychological Association (APA)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Wishing you all the best on your journey!
James.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1512
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these career 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. The relevant subjects will be your major and minor
5. Explore the entry criteria of these subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these career 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. The relevant subjects will be your major and minor
5. Explore the entry criteria of these subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1512
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you have interest in medical.
Below are my suggestions:
1. There are different careers in medical sector, eg doctor, nurses, therapist, laboratory specialist, etc. Explore the careers in medical
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 counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects will be the major and minor you can target in the college
5. Explore the entry criteria of these subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions:
1. There are different careers in medical sector, eg doctor, nurses, therapist, laboratory specialist, etc. Explore the careers in medical
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 counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects will be the major and minor you can target in the college
5. Explore the entry criteria of these subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Atul Bhankharia
Sales
456
Answers
Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Updated
Atul’s Answer
If you're passionate about a career in the Medical field, consider earning a BS in Biology and Chemistry. It's also beneficial to take Latin and English courses, as the medical field often uses Latin terminology. Strive for a high GPA and don't shy away from challenging courses - they're your chance to prove that you're cut out for the medical field.
As you progress in your degree, or during your junior or senior year, plan to take the MCAT exam. A strong score will open up a world of possibilities for your university choices.
Remember, the field of Medicine is demanding and calls for unwavering dedication and relentless hard work. But if you excel, you'll have the freedom to choose your own path in the medical field. Your hard work will pay off, allowing you to shape your future in the way you've always dreamed of.
As you progress in your degree, or during your junior or senior year, plan to take the MCAT exam. A strong score will open up a world of possibilities for your university choices.
Remember, the field of Medicine is demanding and calls for unwavering dedication and relentless hard work. But if you excel, you'll have the freedom to choose your own path in the medical field. Your hard work will pay off, allowing you to shape your future in the way you've always dreamed of.
Priscilla Gonzalez
Customer Insights Manager
8
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Priscilla’s Answer
Discovering your passion, especially when considering a field as vast as medicine, is akin to being a detective on the hunt for clues. Here's how you can unravel this mystery:
1. Self-Reflection: Start with the person in the mirror. Ask yourself what aspects of medicine excite you the most. Is it the direct patient care, the science behind the treatment, or the thrill of medical discoveries? Reflect on the times you've felt most engaged and alive. Was it while volunteering, watching a medical drama, or reading about breakthrough treatments?
2. Explore and Experience: Get out there and test the waters. Shadow professionals in various medical fields, take up internships, or volunteer at healthcare facilities. This hands-on approach gives you a real taste of the day-to-day work in different medical careers.
3. Educational Research: Dive into the academic side. Look at different majors and the careers they can lead to. Courses in biology, chemistry, and health sciences can be a good starting point. Online resources, academic advisors, and open days at medical schools can also provide clarity.
4. Networking: Talk to people who are already in the medical field. Attend career fairs, join medical forums, or reach out to professionals on LinkedIn. Conversations with real practitioners offer insights that you can't get from textbooks.
5. Evaluate Your Strengths and Values: Consider what you're good at and what matters to you. Do you excel in fast-paced environments or do you prefer methodical research? Do you want to make a direct impact on people's lives, or are you drawn to the idea of advancing medical knowledge?
6. Consider Lifestyle and Commitment: Medicine is a demanding field. Think about the lifestyle you want and the years of education you're willing to commit to. Surgeons and doctors have different routines and responsibilities compared to medical researchers or public health professionals.
7. Career Counseling: Don't underestimate the value of a good career counselor. They can provide tests and exercises that help identify your interests and aptitudes, and match them to potential careers.
8. Future Projections: Look at where the field of medicine is headed. What specialties will be in demand? Does the future of telemedicine intrigue you, or are you fascinated by the prospect of personalized medicine?
9. Start Broad, Then Narrow Down: Begin with a broad field in healthcare that interests you, and as you learn more, start narrowing your focus. It's okay to start with a general health sciences degree and then specialize as you discover what you love.
Remember, finding your passion is a journey, not a sprint. It's okay to change your mind, and it's okay to not have all the answers right away. The medical field is one of constant learning and growth, and as you evolve, so might your interests. Keep an open mind, stay curious, and you'll find your way.
1. Self-Reflection: Start with the person in the mirror. Ask yourself what aspects of medicine excite you the most. Is it the direct patient care, the science behind the treatment, or the thrill of medical discoveries? Reflect on the times you've felt most engaged and alive. Was it while volunteering, watching a medical drama, or reading about breakthrough treatments?
2. Explore and Experience: Get out there and test the waters. Shadow professionals in various medical fields, take up internships, or volunteer at healthcare facilities. This hands-on approach gives you a real taste of the day-to-day work in different medical careers.
3. Educational Research: Dive into the academic side. Look at different majors and the careers they can lead to. Courses in biology, chemistry, and health sciences can be a good starting point. Online resources, academic advisors, and open days at medical schools can also provide clarity.
4. Networking: Talk to people who are already in the medical field. Attend career fairs, join medical forums, or reach out to professionals on LinkedIn. Conversations with real practitioners offer insights that you can't get from textbooks.
5. Evaluate Your Strengths and Values: Consider what you're good at and what matters to you. Do you excel in fast-paced environments or do you prefer methodical research? Do you want to make a direct impact on people's lives, or are you drawn to the idea of advancing medical knowledge?
6. Consider Lifestyle and Commitment: Medicine is a demanding field. Think about the lifestyle you want and the years of education you're willing to commit to. Surgeons and doctors have different routines and responsibilities compared to medical researchers or public health professionals.
7. Career Counseling: Don't underestimate the value of a good career counselor. They can provide tests and exercises that help identify your interests and aptitudes, and match them to potential careers.
8. Future Projections: Look at where the field of medicine is headed. What specialties will be in demand? Does the future of telemedicine intrigue you, or are you fascinated by the prospect of personalized medicine?
9. Start Broad, Then Narrow Down: Begin with a broad field in healthcare that interests you, and as you learn more, start narrowing your focus. It's okay to start with a general health sciences degree and then specialize as you discover what you love.
Remember, finding your passion is a journey, not a sprint. It's okay to change your mind, and it's okay to not have all the answers right away. The medical field is one of constant learning and growth, and as you evolve, so might your interests. Keep an open mind, stay curious, and you'll find your way.
Nan Zhang
Engineer
2
Answers
Markham, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Nan’s Answer
You need to do three things:
1) To gather information.
2) To understand.
3) To make a decision.
You need to gather information as much as possible through all ways, such as google, library, experts in the field, etc.
You need to understand what the career requires, what people do in this profession, how do the people in this profession contribute to others, and whether the career has a long-term development, etc.
You should understand how the career will shape your life, and whether it fits what you are good at and what you are looking for.
All career has pros and cons. There is no career without any drawbacks in this world.
If you're ready to accept all the challenges and boring/struggling part of the career, you can make the decision and you would be able to enjoy the joyful part of the career in a long-lasting time.
1) To gather information.
2) To understand.
3) To make a decision.
You need to gather information as much as possible through all ways, such as google, library, experts in the field, etc.
You need to understand what the career requires, what people do in this profession, how do the people in this profession contribute to others, and whether the career has a long-term development, etc.
You should understand how the career will shape your life, and whether it fits what you are good at and what you are looking for.
All career has pros and cons. There is no career without any drawbacks in this world.
If you're ready to accept all the challenges and boring/struggling part of the career, you can make the decision and you would be able to enjoy the joyful part of the career in a long-lasting time.
Adrienne Barron
Interior design
11
Answers
Merrillville, Indiana
Updated
Adrienne’s Answer
There are free career interest assessments that you can find online.
Hi Adrienne, thank you for your input! Can you provide some more information to Samantha about specific interest assessments and where they can be found?
Sharyn Grose, Admin
Yes here are a few free assessments.
https://www.careerexplorer.com/career-test/
https://www.careerfitter.com/free_test/careerbuilder/test
Adrienne Barron
David Beaumont
Technical Support
29
Answers
Westerville, Ohio
Updated
David’s Answer
Discovering your true passion may not always follow a linear path. As you delve into various interests, your perspective may shift. With that in mind, here are some questions to ask yourself:
*What are some things you like to do?
*What brings you joy?
*What do you like so much that you would do it for free?
Create a sincere list of things that motivate you and dedicate some time to investigate these areas to ensure they align with your aspirations.
You've expressed interest in a medical career. Perform an online search on the diverse range of medical professions to see if any catch your attention.
Once you've narrowed down a few fields, contact your local hospital to inquire about shadowing opportunities or to gain more in-depth knowledge about your areas of interest.
If you regularly visit a family doctor, consider sharing your medical ambitions with them during your next appointment, and ask if they could arrange a one-on-one meeting with a professional in your chosen field for a Q&A session.
Here's to your future success!
*What are some things you like to do?
*What brings you joy?
*What do you like so much that you would do it for free?
Create a sincere list of things that motivate you and dedicate some time to investigate these areas to ensure they align with your aspirations.
You've expressed interest in a medical career. Perform an online search on the diverse range of medical professions to see if any catch your attention.
Once you've narrowed down a few fields, contact your local hospital to inquire about shadowing opportunities or to gain more in-depth knowledge about your areas of interest.
If you regularly visit a family doctor, consider sharing your medical ambitions with them during your next appointment, and ask if they could arrange a one-on-one meeting with a professional in your chosen field for a Q&A session.
Here's to your future success!
Maya Williams
Consultant
2
Answers
Huntington Station, New York
Updated
Maya’s Answer
Hi Samantha!
I'm going to take a slightly different approach here, but I think it's important to give yourself the freedom to explore and discover what truly ignites your passion. I'm 28 now, but only recently have I begun to understand what I'm genuinely passionate about. This understanding often comes with self-discovery, which can sometimes happen later in life. I initially pursued mechanical engineering, only to realize at 24 that it wasn't my calling. I then made a shift and decided to venture into business school.
I'd advise you to make choices that keep your future open to changes and new directions. For instance, if you're considering the medical field but aren't entirely sure, you could consider studying engineering while also taking the necessary courses for medical school. This approach could open up more career paths if you later decide that medical school isn't for you. It's like having a backup plan and not feeling trapped or pressured into a specific path, like you might feel if you chose to study biology with the sole aim of going to medical school.
Lastly, I encourage you to experiment with different things and look for ways to integrate what you love into your career plans. I've always had a deep desire to help others, but I wasn't sure how to turn that into a viable career. During my time in grad school, I made a promise to myself to speak up about the social impact of business decisions. You might not always be able to align your career perfectly with your passions, but it's about playing the hand you're dealt and making it work for you.
I'm rooting for you on your journey!
Best wishes,
Maya
I'm going to take a slightly different approach here, but I think it's important to give yourself the freedom to explore and discover what truly ignites your passion. I'm 28 now, but only recently have I begun to understand what I'm genuinely passionate about. This understanding often comes with self-discovery, which can sometimes happen later in life. I initially pursued mechanical engineering, only to realize at 24 that it wasn't my calling. I then made a shift and decided to venture into business school.
I'd advise you to make choices that keep your future open to changes and new directions. For instance, if you're considering the medical field but aren't entirely sure, you could consider studying engineering while also taking the necessary courses for medical school. This approach could open up more career paths if you later decide that medical school isn't for you. It's like having a backup plan and not feeling trapped or pressured into a specific path, like you might feel if you chose to study biology with the sole aim of going to medical school.
Lastly, I encourage you to experiment with different things and look for ways to integrate what you love into your career plans. I've always had a deep desire to help others, but I wasn't sure how to turn that into a viable career. During my time in grad school, I made a promise to myself to speak up about the social impact of business decisions. You might not always be able to align your career perfectly with your passions, but it's about playing the hand you're dealt and making it work for you.
I'm rooting for you on your journey!
Best wishes,
Maya