4 answers
Mason
Student
Raleigh, North Carolina
1
Question
Asked
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How do I narrow down my career/future options if I'm unsure?
I'm in 10th grade but keep getting asked about my future and/or career plans but I'm not sure, I feel like I'm mediocre in all things and don't really excel in anything in particular, so how do I find what is right?
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4 answers
Rachel Knapp
Project Manager
23
Answers
Durham, North Carolina
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Hi Mason,
First I want to assure you that you are not alone in this feeling. I remember in high school I changed my mind about what I wanted to do in future half a dozen times. Now is the time to take your time to explore and find out what interests you. I truly am not sure if a dream job exists (unless you're tasting ice cream for a living, ha!), but I believe we can find jobs we are passionate about and enjoy. High schools generally allow you to choose from a variety of electives and this is where you can determine where your interests may lie. You may find that you really enjoy learning about certain topics, and you might also find topics that are of zero interest to you. This is what is brilliant about all of the options life presents to us. Your hobbies can sometimes turn into careers as well. Read books, watch documentary shows about different topics, and be open-minded about all that life has to offer you and you might be surprised to see what you may see a future in.
First I want to assure you that you are not alone in this feeling. I remember in high school I changed my mind about what I wanted to do in future half a dozen times. Now is the time to take your time to explore and find out what interests you. I truly am not sure if a dream job exists (unless you're tasting ice cream for a living, ha!), but I believe we can find jobs we are passionate about and enjoy. High schools generally allow you to choose from a variety of electives and this is where you can determine where your interests may lie. You may find that you really enjoy learning about certain topics, and you might also find topics that are of zero interest to you. This is what is brilliant about all of the options life presents to us. Your hobbies can sometimes turn into careers as well. Read books, watch documentary shows about different topics, and be open-minded about all that life has to offer you and you might be surprised to see what you may see a future in.
deborah kania
Marketing
48
Answers
New Bern, North Carolina
Updated
deborah’s Answer
Hello Mason! Lots of 10th graders likely feel the same way. What are your interests? What are your talents? Those are worth exploring at this time. Try not to think that you are choosing "the" career for the rest of your life, right now. Continue exploring and having conversations with other students, teachers, etc. I have a feeling that you are not mediocre in all things. You just may have not found where your interests and talents come together. After that, it is learning and practicing in order to excel. I wish you the best in your career explorations!
https://www.bls.gov/k12/students/careers/career-exploration.htm
https://www.cfnc.org/news/career-exploration-for-students/
deborah recommends the following next steps:
Jocelyn Vergara
Senior Associate
35
Answers
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jocelyn’s Answer
Hello Mason,
There's absolutely nothing wrong with being unsure about your future career path. It's a good idea to reflect on the things you love doing, the projects that spark your interest, and the school subjects you find fascinating. When the time comes to apply for colleges, remember there's always an 'undecided' option you can choose. There's no need to feel stressed or down about not having your entire life planned out. You have a world of time ahead of you to discover your path. So, just take things one day at a time.
There's absolutely nothing wrong with being unsure about your future career path. It's a good idea to reflect on the things you love doing, the projects that spark your interest, and the school subjects you find fascinating. When the time comes to apply for colleges, remember there's always an 'undecided' option you can choose. There's no need to feel stressed or down about not having your entire life planned out. You have a world of time ahead of you to discover your path. So, just take things one day at a time.
Luke Hale
Product Manager
2
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Luke’s Answer
Mason,
Just like you've seen in other messages, it's completely normal to be unsure about your career path in 10th grade. This is an exciting time to explore and experiment! Don't fret over how well you think you're performing, instead, focus on what brings you joy. Remember, with time and practice, anyone can master a skill - that's what makes them professionals. But remember, every professional was once a beginner, so there's no need to stress about what you're good at or not. I encourage you to join a club or participate in an activity that interests you. See how it feels. You never know, you might just stumble upon your passion!
Just like you've seen in other messages, it's completely normal to be unsure about your career path in 10th grade. This is an exciting time to explore and experiment! Don't fret over how well you think you're performing, instead, focus on what brings you joy. Remember, with time and practice, anyone can master a skill - that's what makes them professionals. But remember, every professional was once a beginner, so there's no need to stress about what you're good at or not. I encourage you to join a club or participate in an activity that interests you. See how it feels. You never know, you might just stumble upon your passion!