10 answers
Arya
Student
2
Questions
Asked
592 views
As 11th grader,I can't seem to figure out what career path to choose even after trying so hard?
I'm in 11th right now with medical stream as my father wants me to become a doctor but i don't think i want to become doctor.
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10 answers
Jeff Nguyen
Technical Recruiter + Mentor
17
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hey Kathy!
I've worked with students for the past 4 years, and have helped them refine and figure out exactly what they want to do. This is a common situation where students are often subject to the expectations of your parents. The best advice I can give you is to explore your interests as much as you can - the classes you're taking now are likely going to be fungible and scale for credits for various programs so there is no need to change the current direction that you're going provided you're focusing on a good breadth of sciences, math, and humanity classes.
For areas of career, I'd recommend having coffee chats with university students and career professionals for what they do to narrow down what you like, what you don't like, what you're good at, and what you're not feeling great about. Using your preferences as a frame of reference, your youth is about exploring your options and interests as much as possible, and to refine it into a career using your education and internships :)
You can find mentors at my non profit, https://www.bobatalks.com
I'm also pretty good and career pathing so please feel free to reach out!
I've worked with students for the past 4 years, and have helped them refine and figure out exactly what they want to do. This is a common situation where students are often subject to the expectations of your parents. The best advice I can give you is to explore your interests as much as you can - the classes you're taking now are likely going to be fungible and scale for credits for various programs so there is no need to change the current direction that you're going provided you're focusing on a good breadth of sciences, math, and humanity classes.
For areas of career, I'd recommend having coffee chats with university students and career professionals for what they do to narrow down what you like, what you don't like, what you're good at, and what you're not feeling great about. Using your preferences as a frame of reference, your youth is about exploring your options and interests as much as possible, and to refine it into a career using your education and internships :)
You can find mentors at my non profit, https://www.bobatalks.com
I'm also pretty good and career pathing so please feel free to reach out!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3839
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Arya,
Unraveling Diverse Career Opportunities: It's entirely normal for an 11th grader like yourself to feel daunted when it comes to choosing a career. Always remember, you have ample time to explore a variety of options and discover a path that truly aligns with your aspirations. Here are some proactive steps to guide you in determining the most suitable career for you:
Self-Analysis: Dedicate some time to introspect on your likes, strengths, and principles. Which subjects captivate your interest? What activities bring you satisfaction? A deeper understanding of yourself will aid in identifying potential careers that align with your interests.
Investigate Various Careers: Venture beyond the traditional notion of becoming a doctor. Delve into diverse sectors, job roles, and educational prerequisites. Engage in conversations with professionals in fields that pique your interest or even spend a day shadowing them to gain firsthand knowledge of the job.
Career Evaluations: Contemplate taking career evaluation tests to gain insights into your personality, interests, and skills. These evaluations can assist in unveiling potential careers that complement your profile.
Consult a Career Advisor: A career advisor can be a valuable resource in navigating your options. They can assist in exploring various careers, provide resources for additional research, and offer counsel on making informed choices.
Internships and Volunteer Work: Participating in internships or volunteer work in different fields can offer practical experience and help you decide if a particular career is the right match for you.
Ponder Over Your Passions: Reflect on what sparks enthusiasm in you beyond academics. Whether it's art, technology, sports, or any other hobby, think about how you can transform your passions into a rewarding career.
Engage in Dialogue with Your Parents: Having a candid discussion with your parents about your career goals is crucial. Share your thoughts and apprehensions about pursuing a medical career if it doesn't resonate with your interests.
Remember, it's perfectly fine not to have all the answers at this point. Take time to explore diverse options, seek advice from mentors and professionals, and believe that through patience and self-exploration, you will discover a career path that is perfect for you.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review offers invaluable advice on career growth, decision-making tactics, and strategies for exploring diverse career paths.
American Psychological Association (APA): The APA provides resources on career guidance, self-evaluation tools, and advice on making informed decisions about your professional trajectory.
National Career Development Association (NCDA): The NCDA is a trusted source for information on career exploration, counseling services, and resources for individuals seeking advice on choosing the right career.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
Unraveling Diverse Career Opportunities: It's entirely normal for an 11th grader like yourself to feel daunted when it comes to choosing a career. Always remember, you have ample time to explore a variety of options and discover a path that truly aligns with your aspirations. Here are some proactive steps to guide you in determining the most suitable career for you:
Self-Analysis: Dedicate some time to introspect on your likes, strengths, and principles. Which subjects captivate your interest? What activities bring you satisfaction? A deeper understanding of yourself will aid in identifying potential careers that align with your interests.
Investigate Various Careers: Venture beyond the traditional notion of becoming a doctor. Delve into diverse sectors, job roles, and educational prerequisites. Engage in conversations with professionals in fields that pique your interest or even spend a day shadowing them to gain firsthand knowledge of the job.
Career Evaluations: Contemplate taking career evaluation tests to gain insights into your personality, interests, and skills. These evaluations can assist in unveiling potential careers that complement your profile.
Consult a Career Advisor: A career advisor can be a valuable resource in navigating your options. They can assist in exploring various careers, provide resources for additional research, and offer counsel on making informed choices.
Internships and Volunteer Work: Participating in internships or volunteer work in different fields can offer practical experience and help you decide if a particular career is the right match for you.
Ponder Over Your Passions: Reflect on what sparks enthusiasm in you beyond academics. Whether it's art, technology, sports, or any other hobby, think about how you can transform your passions into a rewarding career.
Engage in Dialogue with Your Parents: Having a candid discussion with your parents about your career goals is crucial. Share your thoughts and apprehensions about pursuing a medical career if it doesn't resonate with your interests.
Remember, it's perfectly fine not to have all the answers at this point. Take time to explore diverse options, seek advice from mentors and professionals, and believe that through patience and self-exploration, you will discover a career path that is perfect for you.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review offers invaluable advice on career growth, decision-making tactics, and strategies for exploring diverse career paths.
American Psychological Association (APA): The APA provides resources on career guidance, self-evaluation tools, and advice on making informed decisions about your professional trajectory.
National Career Development Association (NCDA): The NCDA is a trusted source for information on career exploration, counseling services, and resources for individuals seeking advice on choosing the right career.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
I appreciate your support, James Constantine
Arya
Emily Massaro
Vice President of Marketing
3
Answers
Allentown, Pennsylvania
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Lots of great advice shared so far!
What I found most valuable was not only seeking out advice from those in professions you’re interested in but also inquiring about shadowing opportunities. You can include both options in your outreach and see which they bite on! Even a half day of shadowing can give you a glimpse into what the day-to-day of any profession might entail: What types of tasks might you be responsible for? How much will you interact with others? What’s the environment or culture like? What other roles at the organization might be worth considering? And more!
Shadowing will also give you an opportunity to network, and, if relevant to the major you end up choosing, could be something you include in your resume early on.
Good luck!
Reach out to 5 professionals in industries you’re curious about, asking about opportunities to gain career advice or shadow.
What I found most valuable was not only seeking out advice from those in professions you’re interested in but also inquiring about shadowing opportunities. You can include both options in your outreach and see which they bite on! Even a half day of shadowing can give you a glimpse into what the day-to-day of any profession might entail: What types of tasks might you be responsible for? How much will you interact with others? What’s the environment or culture like? What other roles at the organization might be worth considering? And more!
Shadowing will also give you an opportunity to network, and, if relevant to the major you end up choosing, could be something you include in your resume early on.
Good luck!
Emily recommends the following next steps:
Jerry Bires
career coach
14
Answers
Carbondale, Illinois
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
It may be difficult at your age to push back against a parent's desire for you to become a doctor. (BTW, what parent would NOT be pleased if their child became an M.D.?) So excuse them. Next your challenge is to balance your 1. interests; 2. your abilities; and 3. and perhaps most importantly, can you make a living on your own with the profession, craft, occupation you ultimately chose? Sometimes luck is involved. Upon taking a role in my high school's senior play, a speech teacher heard me reading my lines and recruited me for a radio announcer district speech tournament the following day. I placed second, qualified for state and placed fifth in the state. This led me to a radio news reporting career in my 20's. Yet without that speech teacher's prodding, it never would have entered my mind. Be open to joining many clubs/activities. Consider volunteering with the Peace Corps, for example, which could open up your eyes to international living and opportunities.
Julie Boulanger
Events specialist
2
Answers
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Updated
Julie’s Answer
Separating from what our parents want for us to become X, Y or Z professional is really hard so congratulations first for asking yourself the question and being so brave exploring options. It's not easy so take some time to celebrate your growth mindset!
What has helped me when I was stuck in what I wanted to do was removing myself from the situation and taking distance from it and getting out of my comfort zone, meeting new people. I did a working holiday visa in New Zealand for one year, I worked as waitress, receptionist and took the time to think and discuss with people I would have never met without this long distance trip. I also did a volunteering trip to Bolivia for a year to support them fundraising and approaching a different culture broaden my perspectives so much.
It's not easy to be on your own on the other side of the world in a foreign country with possibly a different language from your native but it's definitely a test to push you towards resilience and bouncing back! Best of luck in your exploration and keep faith you'll find something!
What has helped me when I was stuck in what I wanted to do was removing myself from the situation and taking distance from it and getting out of my comfort zone, meeting new people. I did a working holiday visa in New Zealand for one year, I worked as waitress, receptionist and took the time to think and discuss with people I would have never met without this long distance trip. I also did a volunteering trip to Bolivia for a year to support them fundraising and approaching a different culture broaden my perspectives so much.
It's not easy to be on your own on the other side of the world in a foreign country with possibly a different language from your native but it's definitely a test to push you towards resilience and bouncing back! Best of luck in your exploration and keep faith you'll find something!
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Arya, thanks for reaching out with your concerns about choosing a career path, especially when you're feeling pressure to become a doctor, a profession your father has envisioned for you. I hope the guidance I'm about to share will be of help.
It's perfectly normal to feel unsure about your career, particularly when others have expectations of you. It's admirable that you're taking the time to consider what truly matters to you. The pressure to follow a medical career, which is your father's wish, can indeed make the decision-making process more challenging.
Remember, selecting a career is a deeply personal choice that should reflect your interests, values, and dreams. Your father undoubtedly wants the best for you, but it's crucial to prioritize your own happiness and fulfillment when deciding on your career path. It's perfectly fine to question your choices or to look into other paths that might better align with your talents and passions.
To help you understand your career interests and objectives, think about engaging in activities that promote self-reflection and exploration. Consider what activities, hobbies, and experiences make you feel happy and fulfilled. Reflect on the subjects you're good at and the activities you find most engaging. Also, look into career options outside of medicine. Investigate different sectors, professions, and roles to get a clearer picture of the opportunities available to you.
Additionally, consider seeking advice from career advisors, mentors, or trusted individuals who can offer support and guidance as you navigate this decision-making process. Career assessments, such as aptitude tests or personality evaluations, can also be useful in pinpointing potential career paths that match your strengths and preferences.
Remember, your career path isn't fixed and it's perfectly fine to change course or explore different paths as you progress. Your interests and goals may change over time, so it's important to stay open-minded and adaptable to new opportunities and experiences.
In the end, the key is to follow a career path that brings you joy, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose. Take your time to explore your options, trust your gut, and make decisions that are true to who you are. By doing this, you can embark on a career journey that aligns with your passions and aspirations, leading to a fulfilling and meaningful professional life.
It's perfectly normal to feel unsure about your career, particularly when others have expectations of you. It's admirable that you're taking the time to consider what truly matters to you. The pressure to follow a medical career, which is your father's wish, can indeed make the decision-making process more challenging.
Remember, selecting a career is a deeply personal choice that should reflect your interests, values, and dreams. Your father undoubtedly wants the best for you, but it's crucial to prioritize your own happiness and fulfillment when deciding on your career path. It's perfectly fine to question your choices or to look into other paths that might better align with your talents and passions.
To help you understand your career interests and objectives, think about engaging in activities that promote self-reflection and exploration. Consider what activities, hobbies, and experiences make you feel happy and fulfilled. Reflect on the subjects you're good at and the activities you find most engaging. Also, look into career options outside of medicine. Investigate different sectors, professions, and roles to get a clearer picture of the opportunities available to you.
Additionally, consider seeking advice from career advisors, mentors, or trusted individuals who can offer support and guidance as you navigate this decision-making process. Career assessments, such as aptitude tests or personality evaluations, can also be useful in pinpointing potential career paths that match your strengths and preferences.
Remember, your career path isn't fixed and it's perfectly fine to change course or explore different paths as you progress. Your interests and goals may change over time, so it's important to stay open-minded and adaptable to new opportunities and experiences.
In the end, the key is to follow a career path that brings you joy, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose. Take your time to explore your options, trust your gut, and make decisions that are true to who you are. By doing this, you can embark on a career journey that aligns with your passions and aspirations, leading to a fulfilling and meaningful professional life.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Arya, I appreciate your initiative in seeking advice about your career path. I trust the guidance I'm about to share will shed some light and assist you in your journey.
It's completely normal to feel unsure about your career direction, especially with the weight of your father's expectations. It's essential to delve into your interests, passions, and strengths to make a well-grounded decision about your future. Here are some practical steps to help you carve out your career path:
• Begin with some self-reflection to pinpoint your interests, values, and goals. Ask yourself: What subjects captivate me? What activities energize me and bring me satisfaction? What are my strengths and skills? Understanding these aspects will help you filter out career options that align with your interests and aspirations.
• Consider exploring career paths outside the medical field. Investigate different industries, professions, and job roles to understand the opportunities available and find what resonates with you. This could involve talking to professionals from various fields, attending career fairs or networking events, and seeking internships or volunteer opportunities for hands-on experience.
• Taking career assessments or personality tests could be beneficial, providing additional insight into your strengths, interests, and personality traits. Career counselors or advisors can interpret these results and offer tailored guidance and recommendations. These assessments can open up potential career paths you may not have considered and identify opportunities that match your strengths and preferences.
• Even if becoming a doctor isn't appealing to you, there are numerous alternative career paths within the healthcare industry. Consider researching careers like nursing, medical research, healthcare administration, public health, medical technology, or allied health professions such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech-language pathology. These careers offer a range of opportunities to positively impact people's lives while utilizing your interests and skills.
• Seek opportunities to experience different career paths and industries through internships, job shadowing, volunteering, or part-time work. These experiences can give you a real sense of the daily responsibilities, workplace culture, and demands of various professions, aiding you in making informed decisions about your future career path. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals in your areas of interest for potential opportunities for hands-on experience or mentorship.
• Depending on the career path you choose, you might need specific education or training. Research different educational pathways, like college degree programs, vocational training, certification programs, or apprenticeships, that align with your chosen career field. Consider factors like program reputation, curriculum content, affordability, and location when weighing your options.
• Lastly, don't hesitate to seek support and guidance from trusted mentors, family members, teachers, or career advisors throughout your decision-making process. They can provide valuable insights, advice, and encouragement as you explore your options and navigate the challenges of choosing a career path. Having a support network can boost your confidence and empower you to make decisions about your future.
By taking these practical steps and exploring your interests, strengths, and goals, you can gain clarity and confidence in choosing a career path that aligns with your passions and aspirations. Remember, career exploration is a journey, and it's perfectly fine to explore different options and adjust your path as you learn more about yourself and the opportunities available to you. As a college advisor, I'm here to support you every step of the way as you navigate this crucial decision-making process.
It's completely normal to feel unsure about your career direction, especially with the weight of your father's expectations. It's essential to delve into your interests, passions, and strengths to make a well-grounded decision about your future. Here are some practical steps to help you carve out your career path:
• Begin with some self-reflection to pinpoint your interests, values, and goals. Ask yourself: What subjects captivate me? What activities energize me and bring me satisfaction? What are my strengths and skills? Understanding these aspects will help you filter out career options that align with your interests and aspirations.
• Consider exploring career paths outside the medical field. Investigate different industries, professions, and job roles to understand the opportunities available and find what resonates with you. This could involve talking to professionals from various fields, attending career fairs or networking events, and seeking internships or volunteer opportunities for hands-on experience.
• Taking career assessments or personality tests could be beneficial, providing additional insight into your strengths, interests, and personality traits. Career counselors or advisors can interpret these results and offer tailored guidance and recommendations. These assessments can open up potential career paths you may not have considered and identify opportunities that match your strengths and preferences.
• Even if becoming a doctor isn't appealing to you, there are numerous alternative career paths within the healthcare industry. Consider researching careers like nursing, medical research, healthcare administration, public health, medical technology, or allied health professions such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech-language pathology. These careers offer a range of opportunities to positively impact people's lives while utilizing your interests and skills.
• Seek opportunities to experience different career paths and industries through internships, job shadowing, volunteering, or part-time work. These experiences can give you a real sense of the daily responsibilities, workplace culture, and demands of various professions, aiding you in making informed decisions about your future career path. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals in your areas of interest for potential opportunities for hands-on experience or mentorship.
• Depending on the career path you choose, you might need specific education or training. Research different educational pathways, like college degree programs, vocational training, certification programs, or apprenticeships, that align with your chosen career field. Consider factors like program reputation, curriculum content, affordability, and location when weighing your options.
• Lastly, don't hesitate to seek support and guidance from trusted mentors, family members, teachers, or career advisors throughout your decision-making process. They can provide valuable insights, advice, and encouragement as you explore your options and navigate the challenges of choosing a career path. Having a support network can boost your confidence and empower you to make decisions about your future.
By taking these practical steps and exploring your interests, strengths, and goals, you can gain clarity and confidence in choosing a career path that aligns with your passions and aspirations. Remember, career exploration is a journey, and it's perfectly fine to explore different options and adjust your path as you learn more about yourself and the opportunities available to you. As a college advisor, I'm here to support you every step of the way as you navigate this crucial decision-making process.
Kathleen Edwards
1
Answer
Updated
Kathleen’s Answer
Another option to college is an apprenticeship. My name is Kathy and I’m a master plumber for 23 years, a plumber for 30 years. Now I’m a licensed plumbing inspector.
You don’t have to go to college to be in the trades. You can learn thru an apprenticeship, get paid to learn, and have a job when you’re licensed. Young ladies or young men can choose building trades; electrical, heating and cooling, mechanicals, boilers, or plumbing. Plumbing is a 3 year apprenticeship then you take your journeyman’s test. Hold your journeyman’s for 2 years and you can take your masters license test. That’s what I did, and I’m glad I did it, because the trades are necessary for everyday life for everyone. You have allot of options, there are also automotive, metal machining, welding…apprenticeships are where it’s at!
You don’t have to go to college to be in the trades. You can learn thru an apprenticeship, get paid to learn, and have a job when you’re licensed. Young ladies or young men can choose building trades; electrical, heating and cooling, mechanicals, boilers, or plumbing. Plumbing is a 3 year apprenticeship then you take your journeyman’s test. Hold your journeyman’s for 2 years and you can take your masters license test. That’s what I did, and I’m glad I did it, because the trades are necessary for everyday life for everyone. You have allot of options, there are also automotive, metal machining, welding…apprenticeships are where it’s at!
Thank you, Ms Kathleen for the advice but jobs like plumbing etc that you mentioned are considered 'nothing' here in India. Most of the Indian parents want their to children to have a govt which pays handsomely for them to have a stable life ahead. Many students sacrifice their dreams to fulfill their parent's expectations. We are not asked to choose a career, we have to do whatever they want. Anyways thank you once again for your advice.
Arya
Arianna Pride
Senior Operations Manager
11
Answers
Scottsdale, Arizona
Updated
Arianna’s Answer
I hope you're doing well! I see that you're feeling uncertain about your future career path, especially with the pressure from your father to follow in his footsteps and pursue a career in medicine. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed by such expectations, especially when you're still exploring your interests and passions!
I want you to know that it's okay to feel unsure about your career path at this stage in your life. You have plenty of time to explore different options and find a path that truly resonates with you. Here are a few things to consider as you navigate through this decision-making process:
Reflect on Your Interests and Passions: Take some time to reflect on what truly excites and motivates you. What subjects do you enjoy studying? What hobbies or activities do you find fulfilling? Your interests and passions can provide valuable clues about potential career paths that align with your strengths and values.
Explore Different Career Options: Don't feel limited by your father's expectations or societal pressures. Take the time to explore a wide range of career options and industries that interest you. Research different fields, job roles, and educational pathways to gain a better understanding of what each career entails.
Consider Your Skills and Strengths: Identify your strengths, skills, and natural talents. What are you good at? What activities or tasks come easily to you? Remember that there are many career paths that can utilize your unique strengths and abilities.
Seek Guidance and Support: Consider seeking guidance from a school counselor, mentor, or career advisor who can offer unbiased support and advice. You can always let your father know that while you appreciate his advice and guidance, you want to explore different options that align with your own interests and goals. Parents just want whats best for us!
Keep an Open Mind: Stay open-minded and flexible as you explore different career paths. You may discover new interests and opportunities along the way that you hadn't considered before. Remember that it's okay to change your mind and pursue a different path if your interests evolve over time.
Remember, It's Okay Not to Know Yet: It's perfectly normal to not have your career path figured out while you're still in high school. Many people don't discover their true calling until they're in college or beyond. Consider using your college years to explore different subjects & career paths by taking a variety of classes that interest you. You might discover a passion you never knew you had!
Hope this helps, take care!
I want you to know that it's okay to feel unsure about your career path at this stage in your life. You have plenty of time to explore different options and find a path that truly resonates with you. Here are a few things to consider as you navigate through this decision-making process:
Reflect on Your Interests and Passions: Take some time to reflect on what truly excites and motivates you. What subjects do you enjoy studying? What hobbies or activities do you find fulfilling? Your interests and passions can provide valuable clues about potential career paths that align with your strengths and values.
Explore Different Career Options: Don't feel limited by your father's expectations or societal pressures. Take the time to explore a wide range of career options and industries that interest you. Research different fields, job roles, and educational pathways to gain a better understanding of what each career entails.
Consider Your Skills and Strengths: Identify your strengths, skills, and natural talents. What are you good at? What activities or tasks come easily to you? Remember that there are many career paths that can utilize your unique strengths and abilities.
Seek Guidance and Support: Consider seeking guidance from a school counselor, mentor, or career advisor who can offer unbiased support and advice. You can always let your father know that while you appreciate his advice and guidance, you want to explore different options that align with your own interests and goals. Parents just want whats best for us!
Keep an Open Mind: Stay open-minded and flexible as you explore different career paths. You may discover new interests and opportunities along the way that you hadn't considered before. Remember that it's okay to change your mind and pursue a different path if your interests evolve over time.
Remember, It's Okay Not to Know Yet: It's perfectly normal to not have your career path figured out while you're still in high school. Many people don't discover their true calling until they're in college or beyond. Consider using your college years to explore different subjects & career paths by taking a variety of classes that interest you. You might discover a passion you never knew you had!
Hope this helps, take care!
Richard Thornton
Aerospace Engineer
20
Answers
Robbinsville, New Jersey
Updated
Richard’s Answer
It is a lot to ask students to pick their career path so early, so the struggle you are going through is both familiar to myself and I'm sure most students in your position. That being said, the best advice I have for overcoming this is to remember that careers are almost never "pick it, and stick with it" - they eb and flow and can evolve based on your interests. Coming to understand that can not only relieve the pressure of finding the "perfect" job, but also open the doors to new experiences that you'd never be willing to try if you thought you could only pick one path.
Start with what's available around you. If you reach too far too soon, you may overlook some opportunities around you that can give you a great leg up in picking a career. This may be local businesses hiring you for an after school position or a community school offering genuine college credits that you can put towards your degree or simply use to figure out if you like that field.
Many people overlook starting with a two year degree that doesn't lock you down to a specific field and then moving into a four year Bachelor's program. That way you can work on your general credits (required regardless of the degree) and then move into a field once you know what it is you love. I'd highly recommend this path with the bonus of it saving you huge sums of money in an era where student debt is growing.
Even once you get to a higher education program like a four-year institute, you can still meet with professors to better understand a field and the industry you'd be working in. You can meet with upperclassmen and post-grad students doing research to see what work they do on a day-to-day. Plus you'll have thousands of like-minded individuals to bounce ideas off and see what paths they take to compare. It's all about asking the question over and over and remembering that you can change careers up to the point of retiring. Have fun with it and go with the flow as much as you can!
Start with what's available around you. If you reach too far too soon, you may overlook some opportunities around you that can give you a great leg up in picking a career. This may be local businesses hiring you for an after school position or a community school offering genuine college credits that you can put towards your degree or simply use to figure out if you like that field.
Many people overlook starting with a two year degree that doesn't lock you down to a specific field and then moving into a four year Bachelor's program. That way you can work on your general credits (required regardless of the degree) and then move into a field once you know what it is you love. I'd highly recommend this path with the bonus of it saving you huge sums of money in an era where student debt is growing.
Even once you get to a higher education program like a four-year institute, you can still meet with professors to better understand a field and the industry you'd be working in. You can meet with upperclassmen and post-grad students doing research to see what work they do on a day-to-day. Plus you'll have thousands of like-minded individuals to bounce ideas off and see what paths they take to compare. It's all about asking the question over and over and remembering that you can change careers up to the point of retiring. Have fun with it and go with the flow as much as you can!
Thank you for giving me advice.
Arya