What should I do after high school?
I’m going to be a senior next year, and I’m feeling lost about my future.
A hands-on trade isn’t for me; I’m not particularly skilled in that area. I do enjoy taking apart and putting machines back together, but I don’t have a natural talent for it.
Math and science aren’t my strong suits either, which rules out a STEM career, despite thinking it might be a path for me because of the potential for a good salary.
This leaves me with English and history, subjects where I perform decently. I wouldn’t say I’m a genius, but I definitely do better in these areas than in math. So what options do I have? Will I be stuck as an overworked English professor waiting for tenure only to retreat into solitude? Or maybe I could give museum tours in history, but that doesn’t sound particularly fulfilling either.
I’m also not cut out for business since I lack strong interpersonal skills. And pursuing medicine seems daunting, especially with stories about extreme stress and difficulty leading some to drop out. What am I supposed to do?
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain about your future as you approach the end of high school, so you’re definitely not alone in this! It sounds like you have some strengths in English and history, which is a great starting point. Here are some potential career paths and ideas to consider that align with your interests:
Writing and Editing: If you enjoy writing, consider pursuing a career in journalism, content creation, or publishing. You could also look into technical writing, which often pays well and doesn’t require exhaustive academic qualifications.
Education: While you mentioned the idea of being an English professor, there are many other roles in education. You could consider becoming a teacher at the elementary or middle school level, which can be very rewarding and allows you to inspire younger students.
Librarian or Archivist: If you love books and history, working in a library or museum could be fulfilling. These roles often require an advanced degree but can offer a chance to engage with the community and preserve history.
Public History: If you’re passionate about history, look into careers in museums, historical sites, or even in media production for historical documentaries. These often focus on storytelling, which could combine your interest in history with your writing abilities.
Creative Fields: Consider exploring creative writing, screenwriting, or even game design, especially if you like storytelling. There are also fields like marketing and advertising where creativity in communication is valued.
Nonprofit Sector: Many organizations need strong writers and communicators for outreach, fundraising, and advocacy. Working for a nonprofit could allow you to do meaningful work without the cutthroat environment of some business settings.
Internships and Volunteer Work: If you’re unsure about committing to a specific career path, consider internships or volunteer positions in areas that interest you. This can provide valuable experience and help you discover what you really enjoy.
Community College or Gap Year: If you need more time to figure things out, community college can be a less overwhelming transition where you can explore different subjects. Alternatively, taking a gap year to work or travel can provide clarity.
Remember, it’s okay to take your time figuring out what you want to do. Your path doesn’t need to be linear, and many people find their passion after exploring various options. Good luck!