Which degree should I go with?

Which degree should I choose?
20F here, feeling unsure about my future path.

I struggle with a major anxiety disorder, and it often feels like no matter what I choose, I’m set up to fail or that my job will eventually be taken over by AI. I’m not the most ambitious person and I prefer jobs that offer a routine.

I’ve considered going into the trades, but since I have a chronic illness, I’m worried about the toll it would take on my body.

Here’s what I’ve narrowed down — I could really use your advice!

HEALTH INFORMATION MANAGEMENT
Pros: In demand, good long-term salary potential, fairly diverse, stable, flexible
Cons: Needs ongoing education due to regulations, costs of certification, tech-heavy, potential for automation in routine jobs (like medical coding)

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (with a focus on supply chain, human resources, or data analytics)
Pros: Broad career options, salary potential over time, transferable skills, consistently in demand
Cons: Limited networking opportunities at my school, high competition, risk of automation, changing job market

APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY
Pros: Diverse career opportunities, growing demand, strong interpersonal skills
Cons: Limited advancement at the bachelor’s level, lower salaries in some areas, varying job stability

MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
Pros: Good job stability, quicker entry into healthcare (2-year degree), less patient interaction
Cons: Physically and mentally demanding, irregular hours, limited salary growth without advancement, some risk of automation

Any guidance you can provide would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

One Reply to “Which degree should I go with?”

  1. First off, it’s completely normal to feel indecisive about your future, especially considering everything you’re dealing with. It’s great that you’ve thought about your options and weighed the pros and cons. Let’s break it down a bit more to help you find some clarity:

    Health Information Management

    • Thoughts: This field is excellent if you like working with data and want something stable. The flexibility can be a big plus, especially if you’re managing anxiety and a chronic illness. However, if regulatory changes and tech-heavy work sound daunting, it might add to your stress.

    Business Administration

    • Thoughts: This degree offers a broad range of career options, which might be appealing if you’re unsure about a specific path. However, the high competition and potential for automation might feel overwhelming, especially given your anxiety about job security.

    Applied Psychology

    • Thoughts: If you have a passion for understanding human behavior and enjoy working with people, this could be a fulfilling choice. However, you’re right that career prospects can be limited without further education beyond the bachelor’s level. If you’re open to continuing education in the future, it could be a solid choice.

    Medical Laboratory Technician

    • Thoughts: This option provides quicker entry into the healthcare field and may allow you to work more independently, which could suit your preference for routine jobs. However, if the physical demands and irregular hours conflict with your chronic illness and anxiety, it might not be the best fit long-term.

    Recommendations:

    1. Prioritize Your Well-Being: Think about what aligns best with your health, both physical and mental. You might thrive better in a role that has less physical strain and provides a routine.

    2. Consider Further Education: If you lean towards applied psychology, it might be worth considering how you could continue your education after your bachelor’s. This could expand your opportunities and make the field more viable for you.

    3. Talk to Professionals: If possible, reach out to individuals in each field. Their insights can help you gauge day-to-day realities and possible career trajectories, which might ease some of your anxiety.

    4. Explore Internships or Volunteer Work: Gaining firsthand experience in different fields can help clarify your interests and strengths while also boosting your confidence.

    Ultimately, remember that no choice is set in stone. Many people pivot in their careers, and it’s okay to start somewhere that feels manageable for you. Whatever you choose, focus on what resonates with you and aligns with your lifestyle and health considerations. You’ve got this!

    Reply

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