Choosing Careers ...when you have more than one interest

CAREER WATCH, November 2009, by Leah

CHOOSING CAREERS
When You Have More Than One Interest

Hey, everyone. I'm Leah, and I thought it would be cool to write an article for GCDA about choosing careers, because there are so many teens out there who have no idea what to be when they 'grow up'. So, I interviewed the Head of Guidance at my highschool, Madame Mercierbeaudion, who was very helpful and came up with some wonderful answers. Read on!

Leah: Is there a written test students can take to determine what their interests are?
Mme M: Yes, there are several tests to determine what your strengths are and what jobs would be right for you, called ‘Interest Inventories’. They are generally very accurate and are available in most schools and on the internet.

Leah: What advice would you give to students who are torn between different passions? For instance, my BFF wants to be a Mathematician, but she also loves sewing and wants to own a craft store.
Mme M: I would tell them to pick one to pursue as a real career and make the other one a hobby. For example, your friend could become a mathematician, but sell her creations at craft shows on weekends.

Leah: Should you know what career you want to pursue before you finish high school?
Mme M: Not necessarily. You should have an idea of what field you want to work in. Once you figure that out the job comes automatically.

Leah: What do you suggest to people who suddenly change what they want to do?
Mme M: Changing what you want to do is perfectly natural. Just make sure you research your new interest and make sure it's right for you.

Leah: If a student loves to do something but isn’t good at one of the subjects required what should he/she do?
Mme M: Keep on working at it! Hire a Tutor, ask for help, do what you have to do to keep your dreams real.

Leah: What if the job they would love to do has low pay and won’t support a family? (Thinking long-term here…)
Mme M: Ooh, tough one. Well, I think you would have to take a different job. It may not be what you love but once you have enough money, or you have achieved a stable environment you can switch to a job you like.

Leah: What about starting your own business?
Mme M: Most people think starting your own business is difficult. It's really not that hard if you stay organized. Once you have a business plan you can apply to the government for a grant, or take out a loan. It's a lot easier to start a business with other people, rather than all by yourself. Ask some of your friends to help out, or your parents.

Leah: What kinds of things can kids do in grade school or high school to help them decide about their future careers?
Mme M: Research, research, research! Try to find out as much as you can about different careers and how they work. I hope this helps!

And that's that. I hope that helped out those of you who were having trouble figuring out what you want to be!

~ Leah