What should I do after high school? I’ll be a senior next year, and honestly, I have no idea what my future looks like.
I can confidently say that a blue-collar trade isn’t for me—I’m not great at hands-on tasks. I enjoy taking apart and putting together machines, but I don’t have any real skill in it.
Math and science aren’t my strong suits either, which rules out the STEM fields I once thought would be my path (and they seemed like they paid well too).
That leaves me with English and history, which I do have some talent for—nothing extraordinary, but certainly better than math. So, what career options does that open up? Am I destined to be a struggling English professor working for tenure only to become a recluse? Or perhaps I could give guided tours at a museum with a history background?
Business is out of the question since I lack people skills, and becoming a doctor seems reserved for intellectuals; I’ve heard stories of students facing extreme stress from the demanding coursework. It’s overwhelming! What are my options?
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain about your future after high school, especially as you approach your senior year. It’s great that you’ve already identified some of your strengths, like your abilities in English and history. Here are a few suggestions and potential career paths to consider based on your interests:
Writing and Journalism: If you enjoy writing, consider pursuing a career in journalism, creative writing, or content creation. There are many avenues in digital media, where you can write articles, create blogs, or even work in social media management.
Education: While you mentioned concerns about being a professor, there are various teaching roles other than at the university level. You could consider teaching high school English or history, which can be rewarding and allow you to connect with students without the pressure of tenure.
Public History: If you’re interested in history, consider working in a museum or historical site, but not just as a tour guide. Roles in outreach, education, or exhibit development could be fulfilling alternatives.
Editing and Publishing: You might find a rewarding career in editing or publishing if you enjoy refining others’ work or helping shape stories. This can include book publishing, magazine editing, or working with online content.
Nonprofit Sector: Many nonprofits look for individuals with good communication skills to help with outreach, education, and program management. This can be a fulfilling way to make a difference while using your strengths.
Communications and PR: Companies often need people to handle public relations, communications, and marketing strategies. Your ability to write and articulate ideas could be an asset in these fields.
Librarianship: If you enjoy research and helping others find resources, consider becoming a librarian. This can involve curating collections, teaching information literacy, and more.
Further Education: If you’re open to it, you might consider community college or a liberal arts program that allows you to explore different subjects and majors before committing to a specific career path.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and it’s okay to take your time to explore different options. Internships or part-time jobs in related fields could help you gain more clarity on what you might enjoy. Finally, seeking guidance from a school counselor or mentor can provide additional support and resources. Good luck!
It sounds like you’re grappling with a lot of common concerns that many high school seniors face, especially regarding the uncertainty of your future path. It’s great to see that you’ve already identified your strengths in English and history! These skills can lead to a variety of fulfilling careers beyond the traditional roles of teaching or guiding tours.
Have you considered exploring fields like publishing, journalism, or even content writing? All of these areas value strong communication skills and can be incredibly rewarding, offering opportunities for creativity and expression. Additionally, you might find a fit in roles related to research, archiving, or even museum curation, which would allow you to utilize your passion for history in a more analytical way.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, look into internships or volunteer opportunities that can help you gain experience and clarity on what you enjoy. Networking with professionals in fields of interest, attending workshops, or even joining clubs related to writing or history can also provide valuable insights and help you build confidence.
Lastly, remember that your career path doesn’t have to be linear, and many successful professionals find their way through exploring various interests and experiences. It’s perfectly okay to take time to discover what truly resonates with you!