What If You Want To Change Your Career, College Student Guide

You might think that this type of article is not applicable to this niche. But come to think of it, you will eventually get a degree, work, and probably want to change your career in the process. Plus, let me remind you that a lot of college students are also working. And they might be experiencing this right now.  

It’s always best to know what to do even before you are in that situation. And that is why we encourage you to read the rest of this post. Let’s answer, how are you going to change your career?  

Most of the time, these are the reasons why people would like to take a new career path:  

• They are looking for better pay  
• The job role is too stressful  
• They are looking for work-life balance  
• They want to challenge themselves  
• They are no longer passionate about their jobs  

Assess Yourself  

Before you decide to leave your current job and to jump into a new one, make sure that you are certain. Let’s be practical here. While most people say that you have to follow your passion, passion alone won’t be able to put food on your table. So if you are willing to take the risk, make sure that you are 100% sure.  

We recommend that you try to evaluate your working conditions. Try to keep a journal and write down your thoughts about work every day. What are the things you don’t like and you like as well? After a couple of months, re-read what you have written and see if most of the things you’ve listed down are negative. If yes, then that could be a sign that you are not happy and that you have to scout for a different path.  

And while you are doing that, think of the things you are good at. What were your childhood dreams? By answering these questions, you will be able to narrow down your options as you choose something new for your life.  

Seek Professional Advice  

Here’s the truth. You might think you know what you need, and you might have that perception that you are certain about your decision. But if we are talking about your career, we recommend that you seek help from professionals. Just so you know, there are career mentors that could help you. They are knowledgeable in providing you tips on how to reassess yourself, and to find the right job role suited for your personality, lifestyle, and needs.  

Look For Job Availability  

See if there are current job availabilities for the career that you want to take in. But just in case there is none, then a more sensible approach is to look for part-time jobs instead of leaving your full time one right away. With this approach, you will be able to test if the new career is right for you. And at the same time, you will never have to worry about the bills you have to pay. It’s a win-win situation.  

See If You Know People From The Industry  

Researching about a new career also includes looking for people who are already in the industry. It’s good if you can ask them about what their daily life is. That way, you can have a clearer picture of what’s in store for you. From there, you will be able to manage your expectations.  

Hone The Necessary Skills  

Just in case there are technical skills that are required for your targeted career, then look for a place where you can refine these. If you need to attend trainings, then go ahead. If free ones are acceptable, we suggest that you take those first. But yes, expect that there are some that will require payment. The good thing about these is that you are likely to get a certification. And yes, that could add weight to your resume.  

Don’t Be Afraid To Volunteer  

So you’ve already asked the professionals about the industry. What’s the next step?  You can take a deeper look by volunteering. More often than not, you will not be paid. But as they’ve said, the experience is priceless.  

The bottom line is, always be pragmatic when you are to make a decision like this. You can always infuse your passion when you change careers. But make sure you will not be left broke or stressed out because you became unemployed for months.