Many have a plan by the time graduation is around the corner. What job they want, which company they will apply for, so on and so forth. But there is a majority of us who can’t figure out what to do.
While in college you know you have to prep for exams but once that’s done life isn’t so routine anymore. The period from waiting for exam results to getting a job can be nerve wrenching. Since the next step isn’t waiting for college to re-open but job hunting it can be scary if you don’t have a direction in mind.
There is no such thing as the right career. It depends on every individual as to what they love and what they want to do.
Now note, the path you choose does not have to be the ultimate thing that you need to stick to for the rest of your life. You can always explore and learn more as time goes by.
Here are things that you can do to figure out what career you want to get into.
There is no right or wrong career path
Nothing is finalized or the ‘endgame’ at the age of 21 and 22. When you choose a career path this early on you can explore more in that field, if you don’t like it then try new fields or jobs. Easier said than done, I know, but life is about finding out who you are and what your passions are. The right career is what gets you out of bed and excites you to work.
Taking time off
This may not fit well with everyone but taking time off to find out more and researching can be better in the long run. There are a few ways you can go about with this,
While you take the time off research about the things you’re passionate about. If you have a certain idea about which direction you want to move in then find out more about the companies hiring, the industry decline rate, etc.
If you don’t have an idea then take that time off to explore what you’re good at and what you want to pursue. If you don’t want to sit idle at home then take up some internship and learn more either while in college or once you’re done. This will give you hands-on experience and can be useful in your resume.
Take risks
It’s scary to stray away from what is considered a ‘normal’ job where you have a steady income and a proper routine. But sometimes it’s that one risk that can change your life.
To take this risk it’s important to understand and accept that things can go either way. What is important is you try, life is all about learning from your mistakes. Some mistakes are more costly than others but that depends on how willing you are to accept the idea that it’s a 50-50 chance of success and failure.
Don’t make money your priority
Initially when students take up internships and jobs not many may look for a high salary/stipend. However, some do look for any job with higher pay to get the ball rolling and that’s alright. With changing times not only things but dreams have gotten more expensive as well, to start anything new you will need to have some income. If you have a plan that needs financial aid by all means do so.
But choosing a job just for the financial benefits will get boring over time as you won’t enjoy it. So instead of only looking at financial benefits look at jobs that will help you grow as well.
You have to start somewhere
To know how you will do in anything you need theoretical and practical knowledge. You need to get hands-on experience to see if you will thrive in your job or not. Even though the prospect of having a job and being independent is frightening it’s a step you must take. Postponing this is only delaying the inevitable.
When you do get a job and don’t like it initially don't leave it immediately, let yourself get acclimated with the surrounding and work before you make a decision.
Most importantly don’t wait for the ‘perfect career’ as you won’t know if it’s perfect until you have tried it.
Choosing what your parents want you to
More often than not I have heard students getting into a course or job their parents like. This may work for some but not all, getting into something for your parents may make them happy but not you. You have 3 options here,
Do as they want you to do even if you aren’t enjoying it and want to pursue something else.
Do what they want you to do whilst giving your passion a shot.
Ignore your parents’ wishes and do what you feel is right.
There is no right and wrong here, anything you choose is a choice you made. You can explore all your options and choose as you please.
In the end, all I want to say is,
Don’t limit your growth. Learn from everything.
Always challenge yourself. Push your boundaries.
Accept failure. It will always teach you something.
Comments