career goals

The purpose of attending a college is to study for a career. Not having a decent career path after such an expensive and time-consuming investment wastes time and money. You can avoid many problems by having an idea of what you want to do before college. But maybe you struggle choosing a career path. Perhaps you are a first-generation college student or have many interests. Maybe you do not know anyone who works in your desired field. Alternatively, you might believe you are too young to know. Regardless of your current status, this blog post can help you. The earlier you start, the better.

Practical steps for choosing a career path before college:

FIRST: Know Yourself:

You will likely change, but it still helps to know yourself. That way you know what you stand for and what you want. You can ask yourself questions to understand who you are. I recommend learning both sides of an issue and numerous perspectives before you answer the questions so that you are deciding what YOU believe, apart from what someone taught you to believe. The following questions are a good start:

• What are my values? What are my beliefs (religious, political, social, ethical)?

• What annoys me? What are my dealbreakers in relationships?

• What are my hobbies?

• What are my strengths and weaknesses? What are my habits (good and bad)?

• What am I passionate about?

• How do I view others? What are my prejudices, biases, or assumptions?

Once you answer the questions, the following question is equally important:

• Finally, WHY are these responses? How much of this is based on my family, my culture, my upbringing, my experiences, and my inner circle?

Please complete this step before the others. 

SECOND: Your Enthusiasm and Its Practical Application:

Try to identify your primary interest and briefly list your goals. For instance, if you love making voices and stories heard, then you might choose journalism and want to be a reporter. But, practically, let’s say you do not expect good pay, have great IT skills, but do not like IT work. You can minor in information technology. You can use your IT skills to supplement your work and have higher pay later, without losing your primary interest or path. It might take more work to be financially successful this way, but it is better than being miserable, unproductive, and wasteful because you hate your job. 

THIRD: Financial Prospects and Career Outlook:

Practically, research how much you can expect to make and the career’s expected future demand. If the income potential is too low for you, consider starting a business. That way, even if you lose your job, you still make money. In fact, once you start your career, I recommend having at least a small side business AND a long-term full-time or part-time job. 

FOURTH: Experience and Character

You have many options, especially when you are young. Speak with someone who works in your field of interest. Consider an internship. If there is none available, ask if the company can introduce an internship opportunity. If they reject you, at least you asked! Also, volunteer regularly in a path that interests you. Preferably, in an area that is related to your chosen career field. Lastly, be sure to have good character. No matter where you work, good character is rewarding. Being reliable and having integrity will benefit you anywhere you work.

You might still change your career path if you follow this advice, but at least you will have done your part to be successful. Do not give up. May you be blessed.

Yours Truly,

Dear Youth Global

Elizabeth Hart