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How can I better prepare myself for the future?
I am currently a rising senior and originally I thought I wanted to be a physical therapist, but I know they do not make a lot of money. I want to be in a career where I can help people and still be able to help myself.
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7 answers
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Mary’s Answer
Hi Bryanna, I would first recommend reflecting on what aspects of physical therapy attracted you. Consider other fields where you can help people, such as occupational therapy, nursing, physician assistant, or healthcare administration.
Seek internships, volunteer opportunities, or job shadowing to gain insights and find your best fit. To get a feel for the healthcare environment, you could start with an administrative job in a hospital, which can provide valuable exposure and help you decide if it's the right path for you. Focus on relevant coursework and certifications to build a strong foundation (you can go on coursera.org or find many other free certifications platforms).
I hope this helps!
Seek internships, volunteer opportunities, or job shadowing to gain insights and find your best fit. To get a feel for the healthcare environment, you could start with an administrative job in a hospital, which can provide valuable exposure and help you decide if it's the right path for you. Focus on relevant coursework and certifications to build a strong foundation (you can go on coursera.org or find many other free certifications platforms).
I hope this helps!
Updated
Joanna Rose’s Answer
Hello Bryanna
To better prepare for the future, consider the following steps:
1.Lifelong Learning: Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in your field. Engage in continuous learning, whether through formal education, online courses, or self-study.
2.Skill Development: Identify key skills that are in high demand in your industry or the job market at large. This could include digital literacy, data analysis, or soft skills like communication and leadership.
3.Networking: Build and maintain professional relationships. Networking can open doors to opportunities and provide insights about your industry.
4.Financial Planning: It's crucial to have a financial plan for future stability. This includes saving, investing, and managing expenses wisely.
To better prepare for the future, consider the following steps:
1.Lifelong Learning: Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in your field. Engage in continuous learning, whether through formal education, online courses, or self-study.
2.Skill Development: Identify key skills that are in high demand in your industry or the job market at large. This could include digital literacy, data analysis, or soft skills like communication and leadership.
3.Networking: Build and maintain professional relationships. Networking can open doors to opportunities and provide insights about your industry.
4.Financial Planning: It's crucial to have a financial plan for future stability. This includes saving, investing, and managing expenses wisely.
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
This is something I learned the hard way- do what you love and the money will follow. Even if a career seems like you won't make enough money, if you know you will enjoy it and will be passionate about what you do- go for it. This is the reason why we still have good teachers, professors, therapists, artists, musicians, performers, and so many more important jobs. If you want to be a physical therapist- be a physical therapist. You will enjoy life more, will be happier, and will be more excited every day to do what you do than if you settle with something just because you'll make a big buck. One of my professors said something that has resonated with me for years- money is a construct. We put the value into money, without that, it would be a useless piece of paper. I'm not saying money isn't needed- of course it is. BUT that doesn't mean you have to settle with a dead end job just so you know you will make enough.
I hope this helps,
Good luck!!
I hope this helps,
Good luck!!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Bryanna,
To better prepare yourself for the future and pursue a fulfilling career that allows you help people while ensuring financial stability, consider the following steps:
Explore various career options: Use reliable resources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, college career centers, and academic advisors to research potential careers that align with your interests and values. Prioritize careers with strong job growth, good wages, and opportunities for advancement.
Gain relevant experience: Participate in internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs related to your chosen field to build practical skills and make valuable connections. These experiences can also help clarify your career goals and provide valuable insights into specific industries or roles.
Network: Connect with professionals in your desired field through networking events, LinkedIn, or informational interviews. Building relationships with industry experts can lead to job opportunities and valuable advice on navigating your career path.
Education: Pursue higher education if necessary for your chosen career. A college degree can significantly increase earning potential and open doors to more advanced positions within a field. Consider attending a top university or college to maximize the benefits of your education investment.
Develop essential skills: Focus on developing both hard skills (technical abilities) and soft skills (communication, problem-solving, teamwork) that are highly valued in most industries. These skills will make you a more attractive candidate to employers and help you excel in your future career.
Stay informed about industry trends: Keep up-to-date with the latest developments in your chosen field by reading industry publications, attending conferences, or following thought leaders on social media platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter. Staying informed will help you adapt to changes in the job market and remain competitive throughout your career.
Build a strong personal brand: Create an online presence through professional social media profiles, personal websites, or blogs that showcase your expertise and accomplishments within your field of interest. A strong personal brand can help differentiate you from other candidates when applying for jobs or networking opportunities.*Authoritative References Used: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), College Board
God Bless You,
JC.
To better prepare yourself for the future and pursue a fulfilling career that allows you help people while ensuring financial stability, consider the following steps:
Explore various career options: Use reliable resources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, college career centers, and academic advisors to research potential careers that align with your interests and values. Prioritize careers with strong job growth, good wages, and opportunities for advancement.
Gain relevant experience: Participate in internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs related to your chosen field to build practical skills and make valuable connections. These experiences can also help clarify your career goals and provide valuable insights into specific industries or roles.
Network: Connect with professionals in your desired field through networking events, LinkedIn, or informational interviews. Building relationships with industry experts can lead to job opportunities and valuable advice on navigating your career path.
Education: Pursue higher education if necessary for your chosen career. A college degree can significantly increase earning potential and open doors to more advanced positions within a field. Consider attending a top university or college to maximize the benefits of your education investment.
Develop essential skills: Focus on developing both hard skills (technical abilities) and soft skills (communication, problem-solving, teamwork) that are highly valued in most industries. These skills will make you a more attractive candidate to employers and help you excel in your future career.
Stay informed about industry trends: Keep up-to-date with the latest developments in your chosen field by reading industry publications, attending conferences, or following thought leaders on social media platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter. Staying informed will help you adapt to changes in the job market and remain competitive throughout your career.
Build a strong personal brand: Create an online presence through professional social media profiles, personal websites, or blogs that showcase your expertise and accomplishments within your field of interest. A strong personal brand can help differentiate you from other candidates when applying for jobs or networking opportunities.*Authoritative References Used: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), College Board
God Bless You,
JC.
Updated
D'Mauri’s Answer
Empower yourself for a successful future by diving deep into research. This will enable you to gain a clearer understanding of potential scenarios in your life or career. In my opinion, research is a powerful tool that can benefit many. Although it might seem tedious, and trust me, I wasn't a fan of it either, it's crucial to embrace it. As I engaged in research, I committed myself to uncover as many opportunities as I could. This way, you're not just learning, but also opening doors to possibilities.
Updated
Aishwarya’s Answer
Preparing for the future involves many aspects, including your career, financial stability, personal development, and well-being. As a rising senior considering a change in career path, here are some steps you can take:
1) Identify your interests, strengths, and values. Use career assessment tools for guidance.
2) Research potential careers that align with your self-assessment. Look at job duties, education, salary, and outlook.
3) Determine what education or skills you need for your chosen career. Seek ways to develop these skills.
4) Gain firsthand experience in your field of interest to understand the practical aspects.
5) Connect with professionals in your chosen field for advice and insights.
6) Start planning for your financial future with savings, investments, and retirement plans.
7) Work on universally beneficial skills like communication, problem-solving, and leadership.
8) Take care of your physical and mental health alongside career preparation.
Remember, it's normal to change careers and not have everything figured out right now. Focus on experiences, skills, and knowledge that provide opportunities.
1) Identify your interests, strengths, and values. Use career assessment tools for guidance.
2) Research potential careers that align with your self-assessment. Look at job duties, education, salary, and outlook.
3) Determine what education or skills you need for your chosen career. Seek ways to develop these skills.
4) Gain firsthand experience in your field of interest to understand the practical aspects.
5) Connect with professionals in your chosen field for advice and insights.
6) Start planning for your financial future with savings, investments, and retirement plans.
7) Work on universally beneficial skills like communication, problem-solving, and leadership.
8) Take care of your physical and mental health alongside career preparation.
Remember, it's normal to change careers and not have everything figured out right now. Focus on experiences, skills, and knowledge that provide opportunities.
Updated
Maritess G.’s Answer
It's heartening to know that you're considering a career path that involves helping others. Stay true to your passions and interests as you prepare for your journey.
If you're interested in becoming a physical therapist, remember there are numerous related specializations you can explore. Take some time to research these areas; you might find a specialization that not only appeals to you but also offers a more lucrative income.
Remember, using your profession to assist others is a wonderful bonus. If you love what you do, the financial rewards will naturally follow.
If you're interested in becoming a physical therapist, remember there are numerous related specializations you can explore. Take some time to research these areas; you might find a specialization that not only appeals to you but also offers a more lucrative income.
Remember, using your profession to assist others is a wonderful bonus. If you love what you do, the financial rewards will naturally follow.