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What do you wish you had known about your position/the field before you started And what is a typical work day like??
As a current high school senior, I’m uncertain about which career path to pursue in, and with college applications approaching, I feel pressured to make a choice soon. I’d like to learn more about different fields to gain a better sense of direction before committing.
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4 answers
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Suzanne’s Answer
Hello Ian, during my university years, I switched my major three times. Initially, I embarked on an education course, then earned my first degree in Technology. I found employment at a warehouse for Eastman Kodak, where I discovered my passion for Logistics. My dedication and industriousness didn't go unnoticed.
Looking back, I wish I had advised myself to explore various job types to identify the industry I truly loved and could build a career in before settling on a major or career path. This might sound like a cliché 'follow your heart' advice, but if you don't find joy in your chosen industry, the journey could be more challenging than necessary.
Don't hesitate to experiment with part-time jobs in different sectors. It's a great way to understand what a career in that field would feel like.
Don't spend a lot of money on college. Explore Community Colleges
Try to stay debt free, even with college. It will serve you well in the long run
Work in part-time jobs or full time for a short period of time in industries you think you'll like.
Looking back, I wish I had advised myself to explore various job types to identify the industry I truly loved and could build a career in before settling on a major or career path. This might sound like a cliché 'follow your heart' advice, but if you don't find joy in your chosen industry, the journey could be more challenging than necessary.
Don't hesitate to experiment with part-time jobs in different sectors. It's a great way to understand what a career in that field would feel like.
Suzanne recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Keresa’s Answer
Hi Ian, awesome question.
I completed undergraduate (undergrad) in 2016 and though I find my career to be very rewarding, I strongly believe that I could’ve excelled quicker if I had completed more practical opportunities such as mentorship, internship, and certification programs (especially lean six sigma/project management or python/ computer analytics). I believe the best way to gain knowledge is through hands-on applications and exposure in the field. I’d encourage every student high school/college to take advantage of opportunities to complete projects, apply for mentorship, or connect with someone in varying fields to learn more ( which is exactly what you’re doing!). This suggestion continues into your career as well. As you grow as a professional opportunities may arise for you to explore or do more, as long as the time is right for you, go for it!
I am a supply chain operations manager and lead a team of nearly 100 people on each scheduled work day. I admit my hours are long, but my work week is short and allows for great work life balance. A typical day consists of planning for volume and staffing, connecting with team members, attending high level meetings, tracking daily and weekly progress, and ensuring my team has tools for success. I don’t expect my career will stop here because the opportunities are endless and the need to service customers is always here!
I’d like to share that many of my peers have different backgrounds. I worked in manufacturing while in undergrad and eventually reached this point in my career, others have military backgrounds, or only work experience. Your major may start your path, but ultimately your experiences will guide your steps.
I completed undergraduate (undergrad) in 2016 and though I find my career to be very rewarding, I strongly believe that I could’ve excelled quicker if I had completed more practical opportunities such as mentorship, internship, and certification programs (especially lean six sigma/project management or python/ computer analytics). I believe the best way to gain knowledge is through hands-on applications and exposure in the field. I’d encourage every student high school/college to take advantage of opportunities to complete projects, apply for mentorship, or connect with someone in varying fields to learn more ( which is exactly what you’re doing!). This suggestion continues into your career as well. As you grow as a professional opportunities may arise for you to explore or do more, as long as the time is right for you, go for it!
I am a supply chain operations manager and lead a team of nearly 100 people on each scheduled work day. I admit my hours are long, but my work week is short and allows for great work life balance. A typical day consists of planning for volume and staffing, connecting with team members, attending high level meetings, tracking daily and weekly progress, and ensuring my team has tools for success. I don’t expect my career will stop here because the opportunities are endless and the need to service customers is always here!
I’d like to share that many of my peers have different backgrounds. I worked in manufacturing while in undergrad and eventually reached this point in my career, others have military backgrounds, or only work experience. Your major may start your path, but ultimately your experiences will guide your steps.
Updated
Denise’s Answer
Hello Ian!
I agree with Cathy's answer above, it's ok not to know. I would also suggest looking at Community Colleges to start. They will often be less expensive, but enable you to explore different courses while earning credits that will transfer to a four-year school. It may also be worth looking into trades to see if that is something that might interest you. There is demand in the market today for tradesmen (ie, electrician, plumber, etc.).
Personally I went to school for Art as that was a passion of mine. I focused on graphic design knowing I could build a career with that. Over time I transitioned into design program management and do that today for a consulting firm. While I'm not a hands on designer any longer, I am still able to work within the creative space and collaborate with designers regularly. As we work with various clients, there isn't necessarily a "typical workday". Depending on what I'm working on we'll do daily "stand ups" which are 15 minute team check ins to discuss what we accomplished the day before, what we plan to work on today and if we have any blockers impeding us from completing our work.
I would reiterate to be open to possibilities, not only now but throughout your career. When you do decide on a career path you can always pivot as you progress if something else piques your interest.
Best of luck to you in your future!
I agree with Cathy's answer above, it's ok not to know. I would also suggest looking at Community Colleges to start. They will often be less expensive, but enable you to explore different courses while earning credits that will transfer to a four-year school. It may also be worth looking into trades to see if that is something that might interest you. There is demand in the market today for tradesmen (ie, electrician, plumber, etc.).
Personally I went to school for Art as that was a passion of mine. I focused on graphic design knowing I could build a career with that. Over time I transitioned into design program management and do that today for a consulting firm. While I'm not a hands on designer any longer, I am still able to work within the creative space and collaborate with designers regularly. As we work with various clients, there isn't necessarily a "typical workday". Depending on what I'm working on we'll do daily "stand ups" which are 15 minute team check ins to discuss what we accomplished the day before, what we plan to work on today and if we have any blockers impeding us from completing our work.
I would reiterate to be open to possibilities, not only now but throughout your career. When you do decide on a career path you can always pivot as you progress if something else piques your interest.
Best of luck to you in your future!
Updated
Cathy’s Answer
If I could share one thing: it's ok to not know what you specifically want to do. Find out what classes or programs colleges have to offer freshman that let you explore different business or science or other areas. That will help you learn what peaks your curiosity and what doesn't.
Be open to possibilities ! While most colleges ask your area of interest you often don't declare until sophomore year.
Be open to possibilities ! While most colleges ask your area of interest you often don't declare until sophomore year.