How do I go about creating my career path and planning for my future?
(I apologize if this isn’t the right subreddit for this topic.)
I’m looking to pursue a career in the medical field, but I’m unsure how to get started. My family is primarily in trades, so I don’t have anyone to turn to for advice or guidance—they don’t really understand my goals.
Is it a good idea to start by watching videos on career planning, reading statistics, or exploring lectures and essays to become more realistic about my options? Should I create a clear definition of what I want to achieve and outline how to get there?
I’ve also considered taking additional classes related to my primary goal. Maybe a double major in something like linguistics, biology, chemistry, or mathematics could be beneficial. However, I’m not sure how practical that would be. I think if I gain a better understanding of my main field, I could find a way to make it work.
(I kept this post shorter than initially planned to keep my questions straightforward.)
Apologies if this seems a bit scattered—it’s late, and I’m half asleep while writing this!
I would appreciate any advice on this topic!
Creating a career path in the medical field can indeed feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t have a background of guidance from your family. Here are some steps to help you shape your career plan:
Research Medical Careers: Start by exploring different areas within the medical field. Consider whether you’re interested in becoming a doctor, nurse, physician assistant, pharmacist, or another healthcare professional. Look for resources like online articles, career guides, and videos that discuss the various roles, required education, and day-to-day responsibilities.
Set Clear Goals: Based on your research, outline what you see yourself doing in the medical field. Think about what interests you and where you see yourself in five or ten years. This could help you determine the path you want to pursue.
Educational Pathway: Look into the educational requirements for your desired career. Most medical careers require specific degrees and examinations. Create a timeline of needed coursework and certifications. If you’re considering a double major, make sure to research how it would fit into your academic schedule and how it may benefit your career.
Talk to Professionals: Since you don’t have family to guide you, try to connect with professionals in the field. You could reach out to medical students or professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, or find a mentor through local organizations or schools. Informational interviews can provide insight into different paths and their realities.
Gain Experience: Try to get hands-on experience through volunteering, internships, or part-time jobs in healthcare settings. This will not only build your resume but will also give you a taste of what working in the medical field is like.
Network: Join local or online communities related to your interests in the medical field. Engaging with others who share your interests can provide support and open doors to opportunities.
Stay Open to Changes: It’s great to have a plan, but be flexible. Your interests may evolve as you gain more experience and knowledge.
Self-Care: Since pursuing a career in medicine can be stressful, make sure to prioritize your mental and physical health. Balance your studies with relaxation and social activities.
It’s perfectly normal to feel uncertain as you contemplate your future. Take it one step at a time, and remember that it’s okay to reassess and change your goals as you learn more about yourself and the field. Best of luck on your journey!