How to Choose a Career

Some of us are certain we want to be doctors or lawyers from a very young age. But what if you’re not one of those people? Choosing a career path can be difficult, especially when you’re in high school.

There are a lot of things to think about when you’re choosing a major and thinking about your future job. Here are just a few of them:

What Am I Good At?

Let’s start with the simple facts. What are you skilled at? Cooking, writing, or making people feel comfortable in your presence? Determine your skills and think of the ways you can turn those talents into a major and career.

What Do I Like?

Picking an engineering major just because you’re good at math and science won’t do you any good if those subjects make you miserable. You need to find a major and career path that is interesting and enjoyable. Choose something that you won’t get bored with or be miserable doing.

What’s Realistic?

Figure out what you like, but take a second look and make sure it’s realistic. Most of us will never become professional football players or actors, so what we love most won’t necessarily translate directly into a job after college. Instead, take your interest and figure out how to make it work with your degree and career. That means considering a career in personal training or sports broadcasting if you love athletics, or looking into teaching drama if your dream is to be a Broadway star. Some people do achieve their ultimate goals, but it’s important to have a backup plan just in case things don’t work out.