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How do I find a career/major I am interested in?
I am struggling to find a career to go to college for, any suggestions?
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17 answers
Updated
Vah’s Answer
I encourage you to seek out what truly captivates your interest. Ask yourself, what activity brings me the most joy? In our ever-evolving world, keep an eye on the newest trends, be it in technology, healthcare, and so on. Remember, at the heart of it all, it's you who matters the most - your well-being, your loved ones, and your mental peace. And always remember, never put a cap on your potential - the possibilities in life are limitless.
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Misha’s Answer
Start by identifying your heart desires, put a written list first. Identify what your values and see how organizations align to them.
Courtesy of Cloudera new hires Andre, Phil, and Arturo
Everyone should identify a mentor or two to help steer them in the direction that makes most sense.
Courtesy of Cloudera new hires Andre, Phil, and Arturo
Misha recommends the following next steps:
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Maria’s Answer
Existing answers to your question are amazing. I would also recommend looking into the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. While this is typically geared towards those joining the Military, it can also help you regardless of your plans after high school. It measures your aptitude that is related to your success in different jobs. It also provides you with career exploration information, helps you determine your readiness for further education and training . It lets you know your academic strengths and weaknesses so you have time to work on them before you start a career, begin college or vocational school.
Best of luck in whichever path you choose to go down!
Best of luck in whichever path you choose to go down!
Updated
john’s Answer
In your day to day activities, think about what grabs your attention, whether that is when you out and around town, visting friends or on vacation. Take some time after to think if there are related industries, companies, charities, etc., that specialize in this interest. Often people just look at what are the hot industries or what other people like but there is nothing more important that finding what peaks your interest, makes you want to participate, and makes you feel good most days. There will always be some days that are tougher than others, but as long as you feel good about returning and continuing to contribute and strive, you will always consider it more than a job or just work. You always want to live to work and not just work to live.
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Shelia’s Answer
Seeking out a career or major that piques your interest? That's a fantastic query! Let's explore the following steps to guide you:
Step 1: Reflect on Your Interests and Passions. This is where your journey begins...
Step 2: Ponder on Activities You Enjoy. This could be a clue to your future career...
Step 3: Evaluate How Much Time You're Willing to Spend in School. This will help set your educational goals...
Step 4: Picture Your Perfect Life After Graduation. This will give you a vision to work towards...
Step 5: Investigate Potential Careers. Knowledge is power in making your choice...
Step 6: Dive into Internships! Practical experience can be a game-changer...
Step 7: Allow Yourself Time to Make a Decision. Patience is key in this important life choice.
By thoroughly going through these seven steps, you're setting yourself up for success in finding the career that's the perfect fit for you.
Step 1: Reflect on Your Interests and Passions. This is where your journey begins...
Step 2: Ponder on Activities You Enjoy. This could be a clue to your future career...
Step 3: Evaluate How Much Time You're Willing to Spend in School. This will help set your educational goals...
Step 4: Picture Your Perfect Life After Graduation. This will give you a vision to work towards...
Step 5: Investigate Potential Careers. Knowledge is power in making your choice...
Step 6: Dive into Internships! Practical experience can be a game-changer...
Step 7: Allow Yourself Time to Make a Decision. Patience is key in this important life choice.
By thoroughly going through these seven steps, you're setting yourself up for success in finding the career that's the perfect fit for you.
Updated
Trimmier’s Answer
Take a good look at yourself and ponder on your future aspirations. Dive into various possibilities and sectors to discover the perfect match for you. Don't hesitate to reach out to guides or professional aids that can steer you in the right direction. Let your strong points take the lead. What are your standout skills? Enroll in courses that align with your talents and passions. Reflect on the kind of setting that would best cater to your needs.
Focus on something you enjoy doing
Look for ways to make life more simple
Trimmier recommends the following next steps:
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Louis’s Answer
Are you presently involved in any school clubs or similar activities? Do you engage in any sports? What specific hobbies or interests do you have?
These are key areas to explore when determining your future path. However, there's a crucial aspect you must remember: You have the absolute freedom to change your decision.
I embarked on my college journey with the initial intention of earning an Accounting degree, but that changed after my first accounting class. I ended up graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing, and a minor in Communications.
Maintain a flexible mindset and experiment with various options. Eventually, you'll discover something that not only interests you but also something you excel at. Once that happens, consider turning that passion into your career.
These are key areas to explore when determining your future path. However, there's a crucial aspect you must remember: You have the absolute freedom to change your decision.
I embarked on my college journey with the initial intention of earning an Accounting degree, but that changed after my first accounting class. I ended up graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing, and a minor in Communications.
Maintain a flexible mindset and experiment with various options. Eventually, you'll discover something that not only interests you but also something you excel at. Once that happens, consider turning that passion into your career.
Updated
Faith’s Answer
Hello Thane,
I think you've received some very informed responses above so I'll offer more of a personal perspective. While in school, I worked for our school's advising office for the School of Arts and Sciences. Fun fact, most incoming freshman have a major chosen based on their subject strengths in HS or were driven by what their parents wanted them to major in. Almost half of the class starts out pre-med and by the time they reach their sophomore year most of those students switch majors. We'd often talk to students who had their major decided for them. Most students declare their major in their sophomore year and use their freshman year to take required courses in addition to elective courses that allow you to explore your interests. It's important to have strong academics throughout your freshman year so if you decide to go Pre-Med or apply to the Business School, Engineering School, etc. your academics speak to your future ability to handle the coursework to come.
My point being, several students come in believing they 100% know what they're going to major in and end up changing their major after their 1st year. I started out taking courses to enroll within the School of Business and after applying to the Business School and getting in for my Sophomore year, I found myself uninterested in the major a semester into my second year. I then switched my courses to Information Sciences which I also found out I didn't enjoy. I finally talked to my advisor who saw I was struggling to decide and she challenged me to find a major I was passionate about, versus choosing a major I thought I'd be good at based on my academic strengths in High School (which were English and Math). I finally settled and switched my major to Sociology after taking an elective course and graduated with a BA in Sociology. Mind you, I graduated on time and within four years. I had a heavier course load during some semesters because I took longer to decide on my major but I got it done.
Once you're on campus at your selected school, join different clubs, talk to different students (upperclassmen) in your elective courses to figure out what you're passionate about. Put yourself out there and go to different on-campus events. These are how I formed my best friends, figured out my major, and also became a well-rounded person. You have time to figure out what your major will be, and most kids in HS, may feel they know, but very often end up changing their major as they develop as a person. College is the first time you're out on your own and able to shape who you are without the past influences you've had in your life. You may end up on the road you envisioned or a completely different path and that's okay.
Also, while you're still in HS, challenge yourself to engage in different activities (sports, clubs, community service, church, etc.). Also, reading is a great tool in your spare time to open up your mind to different cultures, professions, religions, historical events, etc. There are several aspects of life that can spark a career. Lastly, go to the websites of schools you have in mind and explore their majors, some schools offer programs and majors you've never heard of. Their websites will also highlight what their current students are doing within those respective fields at the collegiate level via videos and school articles that can give you a glimpse at what a profession in those fields look like . It'll also help you explore what kind of attributes and academic accomplishments you need to eventually apply to those programs.
Lastly, a ton of schools have overnight programs where you can visit with your parents and engage in different activities on campus which are more advanced than your standard one-day tour. It'll give you the opportunity to explore the campus, the students and the programs they offer which can give you insight as to how you'd fit in on campus while allowing you to see some of the majors offered up close.
Hope this helps!
I think you've received some very informed responses above so I'll offer more of a personal perspective. While in school, I worked for our school's advising office for the School of Arts and Sciences. Fun fact, most incoming freshman have a major chosen based on their subject strengths in HS or were driven by what their parents wanted them to major in. Almost half of the class starts out pre-med and by the time they reach their sophomore year most of those students switch majors. We'd often talk to students who had their major decided for them. Most students declare their major in their sophomore year and use their freshman year to take required courses in addition to elective courses that allow you to explore your interests. It's important to have strong academics throughout your freshman year so if you decide to go Pre-Med or apply to the Business School, Engineering School, etc. your academics speak to your future ability to handle the coursework to come.
My point being, several students come in believing they 100% know what they're going to major in and end up changing their major after their 1st year. I started out taking courses to enroll within the School of Business and after applying to the Business School and getting in for my Sophomore year, I found myself uninterested in the major a semester into my second year. I then switched my courses to Information Sciences which I also found out I didn't enjoy. I finally talked to my advisor who saw I was struggling to decide and she challenged me to find a major I was passionate about, versus choosing a major I thought I'd be good at based on my academic strengths in High School (which were English and Math). I finally settled and switched my major to Sociology after taking an elective course and graduated with a BA in Sociology. Mind you, I graduated on time and within four years. I had a heavier course load during some semesters because I took longer to decide on my major but I got it done.
Once you're on campus at your selected school, join different clubs, talk to different students (upperclassmen) in your elective courses to figure out what you're passionate about. Put yourself out there and go to different on-campus events. These are how I formed my best friends, figured out my major, and also became a well-rounded person. You have time to figure out what your major will be, and most kids in HS, may feel they know, but very often end up changing their major as they develop as a person. College is the first time you're out on your own and able to shape who you are without the past influences you've had in your life. You may end up on the road you envisioned or a completely different path and that's okay.
Also, while you're still in HS, challenge yourself to engage in different activities (sports, clubs, community service, church, etc.). Also, reading is a great tool in your spare time to open up your mind to different cultures, professions, religions, historical events, etc. There are several aspects of life that can spark a career. Lastly, go to the websites of schools you have in mind and explore their majors, some schools offer programs and majors you've never heard of. Their websites will also highlight what their current students are doing within those respective fields at the collegiate level via videos and school articles that can give you a glimpse at what a profession in those fields look like . It'll also help you explore what kind of attributes and academic accomplishments you need to eventually apply to those programs.
Lastly, a ton of schools have overnight programs where you can visit with your parents and engage in different activities on campus which are more advanced than your standard one-day tour. It'll give you the opportunity to explore the campus, the students and the programs they offer which can give you insight as to how you'd fit in on campus while allowing you to see some of the majors offered up close.
Hope this helps!
Updated
Justin’s Answer
Excellent query! The initial step is to discover your passion and ensure it's in a sector that can provide you with a stable livelihood. Furthermore, be adventurous and willing to switch your career course if necessary. Most importantly, relish the journey of uncovering your career. Remember, the knowledge you gain from various paths can be utilized in diverse areas. Keep going, you've got this!
Updated
Carolyn’s Answer
Start by identifying your strengths, your passions, and what you excel at. Once you've pinpointed these aspects, navigate to job search websites and input these qualities as keywords to find relevant job postings. This will give you an insight into the types of jobs that require your specific skills. Furthermore, you can discover the educational qualifications linked to these jobs. This is an enjoyable and practical method to explore and understand what potential employers are seeking.
Updated
Atul’s Answer
Reflect on the subjects that you find enjoyable and excel in.
For example, if you have a passion for History, you might want to think about pursuing a law degree. If Math is more your style, Engineering, Finance, or Accounting could be the right path for you.
If Chemistry captivates you, pharmaceutical or chemical engineering might be a good fit.
The subjects you love can guide you towards your future career.
Remember, you don't have to limit yourself to just one subject. It's equally important to recognize what you're not good at to avoid studying it.
Choosing a state college or university provides the flexibility to change your major if needed, but it's beneficial to have an idea of what profession you might enjoy.
For those who are average students or struggling with grades, consider attending a trade or vocational school to become a skilled tradesman.
For example, if you have a passion for History, you might want to think about pursuing a law degree. If Math is more your style, Engineering, Finance, or Accounting could be the right path for you.
If Chemistry captivates you, pharmaceutical or chemical engineering might be a good fit.
The subjects you love can guide you towards your future career.
Remember, you don't have to limit yourself to just one subject. It's equally important to recognize what you're not good at to avoid studying it.
Choosing a state college or university provides the flexibility to change your major if needed, but it's beneficial to have an idea of what profession you might enjoy.
For those who are average students or struggling with grades, consider attending a trade or vocational school to become a skilled tradesman.
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
Doing some job shadowing is a great way to see if you might like a job, it allows you to see what your day would actually look like. You also don't have to have it figured out when you start school, there is time to take general classes and explore what you like before committing to a major!
Updated
Benjamin’s Answer
I initially joined my current company with the simple goal of earning a living and supporting my family. However, I soon discovered my true calling as an Analyst, realizing that my work genuinely impacts our customers' lives. I take pleasure in tackling challenging situations that push me to come up with creative solutions. This adds a daily dose of satisfaction to my career, which I believe is crucial. If my efforts can in any way enhance my customers' lives, then I consider my work truly worthwhile. The chance to contribute to a solution, rather than being a part of a problem, is a motivating factor that keeps me driven year after year. Earning a living is indeed honorable, but the joy derived from job satisfaction and the feeling of positively contributing to the world is simply invaluable.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3789
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Thane!
Now what is missing from all this AI stuff a little bit of human randomness perhaps will throw the two together and see what sort of answer we get.
According to www.iAsk.ai Ask Ai Search Engine:
Exploring Your Interests and Passions
Finding a career or major that aligns with your interests and passions can be a challenging but rewarding process. Here are some steps to help you explore and identify potential career paths that resonate with you:
Self-Assessment: Start by conducting a thorough self-assessment to identify your strengths, weaknesses, values, and interests. Reflect on activities or subjects that you enjoy and excel in. Consider taking personality and career assessment tests to gain insights into your aptitudes and preferences.
Research Different Fields: Explore various fields and industries to gain a better understanding of the opportunities available. Research the job outlook, required skills, educational requirements, and potential career paths within different sectors. This can help you narrow down your options based on your preferences.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals working in fields that interest you and request informational interviews. These conversations can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of different roles, industry trends, and the skills needed to succeed in specific careers.
Internships and Job Shadowing: Consider participating in internships or job shadowing experiences to gain hands-on exposure to different professions. This practical experience can help you assess whether a particular career aligns with your expectations and interests.
Networking: Build a network of professionals within industries that intrigue you. Attend career fairs, networking events, and industry conferences to connect with individuals who can offer guidance and mentorship as you explore potential career paths.
Utilize Career Services: Many colleges and universities offer career services that provide resources such as career counseling, resume assistance, and job search support. Take advantage of these services to gain personalized guidance in identifying a suitable major or career path.
Consider Your Values: Reflect on your personal values and how they align with different professions. For example, if making a positive impact on society is important to you, consider careers in fields such as healthcare, education, or environmental sustainability.
Seek Mentorship: Identify mentors who can offer advice based on their own professional experiences. A mentor can provide valuable guidance as you navigate the process of choosing a major or career path.
Evaluate Work-Life Balance: Consider the work-life balance associated with different careers. Some professions may require long hours or extensive travel, while others offer more flexibility in scheduling.
Continual Exploration: Keep an open mind and continue exploring new opportunities even after selecting a major or embarking on a career path. Your interests may evolve over time, and it’s important to remain adaptable and open to new possibilities.
By following these steps, you can gain clarity on potential majors and careers that align with your interests, values, and aspirations.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names:
The Balance Careers: This source provides comprehensive information on various careers, including job descriptions, educational requirements, salary expectations, and industry trends.
The Princeton Review: Known for its expertise in education-related content, The Princeton Review offers valuable insights into college majors, career paths, and academic programs.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS is a reliable source for detailed occupational outlooks, employment projections, and wage data across different industries in the United States.
Now for the interesting bit like in programming where I use the RND statement it calls up A random number.
Get them to helping a career for sure that'd be a good thing but also make sure that you're surrounding yourself with hyper energetic people I mean people that really know how to work never mind the partying, the work to really deliver. People who really know how to get down to really hard work and make the system deliver. Otherwise we are caught between the devil and THE DEEP BLUE SEA ... C'est le coleur des MES reves!
Don't forget to read my autobiography, paying attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective studying. You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your performance in exams and assignments could also improve, especially if your diet has significantly improved. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders.
GOD BLESS YOU,
James Constantine Frangos.
JC
Now what is missing from all this AI stuff a little bit of human randomness perhaps will throw the two together and see what sort of answer we get.
According to www.iAsk.ai Ask Ai Search Engine:
Exploring Your Interests and Passions
Finding a career or major that aligns with your interests and passions can be a challenging but rewarding process. Here are some steps to help you explore and identify potential career paths that resonate with you:
Self-Assessment: Start by conducting a thorough self-assessment to identify your strengths, weaknesses, values, and interests. Reflect on activities or subjects that you enjoy and excel in. Consider taking personality and career assessment tests to gain insights into your aptitudes and preferences.
Research Different Fields: Explore various fields and industries to gain a better understanding of the opportunities available. Research the job outlook, required skills, educational requirements, and potential career paths within different sectors. This can help you narrow down your options based on your preferences.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals working in fields that interest you and request informational interviews. These conversations can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of different roles, industry trends, and the skills needed to succeed in specific careers.
Internships and Job Shadowing: Consider participating in internships or job shadowing experiences to gain hands-on exposure to different professions. This practical experience can help you assess whether a particular career aligns with your expectations and interests.
Networking: Build a network of professionals within industries that intrigue you. Attend career fairs, networking events, and industry conferences to connect with individuals who can offer guidance and mentorship as you explore potential career paths.
Utilize Career Services: Many colleges and universities offer career services that provide resources such as career counseling, resume assistance, and job search support. Take advantage of these services to gain personalized guidance in identifying a suitable major or career path.
Consider Your Values: Reflect on your personal values and how they align with different professions. For example, if making a positive impact on society is important to you, consider careers in fields such as healthcare, education, or environmental sustainability.
Seek Mentorship: Identify mentors who can offer advice based on their own professional experiences. A mentor can provide valuable guidance as you navigate the process of choosing a major or career path.
Evaluate Work-Life Balance: Consider the work-life balance associated with different careers. Some professions may require long hours or extensive travel, while others offer more flexibility in scheduling.
Continual Exploration: Keep an open mind and continue exploring new opportunities even after selecting a major or embarking on a career path. Your interests may evolve over time, and it’s important to remain adaptable and open to new possibilities.
By following these steps, you can gain clarity on potential majors and careers that align with your interests, values, and aspirations.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names:
The Balance Careers: This source provides comprehensive information on various careers, including job descriptions, educational requirements, salary expectations, and industry trends.
The Princeton Review: Known for its expertise in education-related content, The Princeton Review offers valuable insights into college majors, career paths, and academic programs.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS is a reliable source for detailed occupational outlooks, employment projections, and wage data across different industries in the United States.
Now for the interesting bit like in programming where I use the RND statement it calls up A random number.
Get them to helping a career for sure that'd be a good thing but also make sure that you're surrounding yourself with hyper energetic people I mean people that really know how to work never mind the partying, the work to really deliver. People who really know how to get down to really hard work and make the system deliver. Otherwise we are caught between the devil and THE DEEP BLUE SEA ... C'est le coleur des MES reves!
Don't forget to read my autobiography, paying attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective studying. You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your performance in exams and assignments could also improve, especially if your diet has significantly improved. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders.
GOD BLESS YOU,
James Constantine Frangos.
JC
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Thane thank you for reaching out and asking your questions regarding how you should choose a college major. First it is an important decision, and you should know that you are not alone and making the decision. I hope the information that I have below provides you some insight and/or help.
The key to finding a career or major that resonates with your interests lies in the heart of your college decision-making process, Thane. I suggest you begin with a self-assessment to pinpoint your strengths, interests, values, and skills. Reflect on your likes, hobbies, and activities that give you joy, as they can offer valuable insights.
Moreover, getting a feel for potential careers through informational interviews, internships, or job shadowing can give you a firsthand glimpse into various professions. Thane, you may also find value in career assessments and counseling services at your high school, providing structured guidance based on your unique traits and preferences. If you're unable to find the information or guidance you need from your current counselor, consider online services as an alternative.
Investigating the curriculum and course offerings of different college programs can help you pinpoint majors that align with your interests. My sons, for example, found it beneficial to attend college fairs, converse with college admissions representatives, and seek advice from professionals in their community for additional viewpoints.
Lastly, Thane, it's crucial for you to approach this process with an open mind, weighing both your passions and the practical aspects of potential careers. Taking the time to explore and gather information will empower you to make a well-informed decision about the most appropriate career path and corresponding college major.
The key to finding a career or major that resonates with your interests lies in the heart of your college decision-making process, Thane. I suggest you begin with a self-assessment to pinpoint your strengths, interests, values, and skills. Reflect on your likes, hobbies, and activities that give you joy, as they can offer valuable insights.
Moreover, getting a feel for potential careers through informational interviews, internships, or job shadowing can give you a firsthand glimpse into various professions. Thane, you may also find value in career assessments and counseling services at your high school, providing structured guidance based on your unique traits and preferences. If you're unable to find the information or guidance you need from your current counselor, consider online services as an alternative.
Investigating the curriculum and course offerings of different college programs can help you pinpoint majors that align with your interests. My sons, for example, found it beneficial to attend college fairs, converse with college admissions representatives, and seek advice from professionals in their community for additional viewpoints.
Lastly, Thane, it's crucial for you to approach this process with an open mind, weighing both your passions and the practical aspects of potential careers. Taking the time to explore and gather information will empower you to make a well-informed decision about the most appropriate career path and corresponding college major.
Updated
Jason’s Answer
To make informed career decisions, it's crucial to engage in a lot of experimentation and discussions with others. One effective strategy is to conduct interviews with seasoned professionals in your field of interest. Ask them about their motivations, unexpected experiences, and daily routines. Remember, you are your best judge or perhaps a close friend knows you better. Seek their opinion on what they envision you doing and evaluate if it aligns with your own thoughts.
A reliable approach is to gather feedback from three sources. The first is a trusted friend, the second is spiritual guidance through prayer, and the third is your intuition. If all three sources point in the same direction, you're likely on a fulfilling path. Conversely, if you're pursuing a career solely for financial gains or external rewards, you may end up dissatisfied and seeking a change. It's perfectly fine to switch careers; many people do.
As a tech professional, I've encountered numerous individuals transitioning from education, initially attracted by the job security and vacation time, only to find the financial aspect unsatisfactory. The adage, "know thyself," is crucial. The best way to discover what truly satisfies you is through experimentation and trying out various options before investing heavily in education.
Explore volunteering opportunities, seek apprenticeships, conduct interviews, and don't confine yourself to what you think you know. The world is vast, and there are numerous winding paths to explore. So, consult a friend, pray, trust your instincts, and then take action!
A reliable approach is to gather feedback from three sources. The first is a trusted friend, the second is spiritual guidance through prayer, and the third is your intuition. If all three sources point in the same direction, you're likely on a fulfilling path. Conversely, if you're pursuing a career solely for financial gains or external rewards, you may end up dissatisfied and seeking a change. It's perfectly fine to switch careers; many people do.
As a tech professional, I've encountered numerous individuals transitioning from education, initially attracted by the job security and vacation time, only to find the financial aspect unsatisfactory. The adage, "know thyself," is crucial. The best way to discover what truly satisfies you is through experimentation and trying out various options before investing heavily in education.
Explore volunteering opportunities, seek apprenticeships, conduct interviews, and don't confine yourself to what you think you know. The world is vast, and there are numerous winding paths to explore. So, consult a friend, pray, trust your instincts, and then take action!
Thane,
Jason Archer offers great advice above. Please consider it fully. But especially the last paragraph. Volunteer and seek out opportunities to try something out. I did that and it kept me from pursuing the wrong path. As he says: consult a friend, pray, trust your instincts, and then take action!
You got this Thane!!!
Jason Hill
Updated
Amrit’s Answer
You will have to choose your major after your sophomore year in college. The strategy is to explore as many classes in different fields in freshmen and sophomore year in college.