In my career exploration path, I am currently more focused on what I want to major over exactly what career I want to have. I feel that most of my interests lie in an area where a specific job outlook is uncertain. Recently I have explored majors in business, public health and now I am looking closely at geography. The major of geography seems to tie my interests together, however when discussing with my mom, she wants me to pick something that is a good investment for the job I will get. The geography major that specializes in environment and society. This major focuses on understanding the relationships between social and environmental processes such as land use. I found out that it is easy to double major or minor in this area of study allowing me to pair it with a minor in business or something that will provide me with specified skills to get a job. When I looked at the public health major, I liked that it is one of the smaller colleges at OSU and the major is applicable towards any career path. It aligns with my interests in how outside variables can contribute to issues in our society. My strengths involving problem solving and being analytical could apply to a career in determining how to solve the issues that are facing our society. I took the actual RIASEC test in my exploration survey and got the code Enterprising, Conventional and Social. In addition, I can relate to the investigative category. The O Net career site suggested jobs such as Agent for Artists, Performers and Athletes, Financial Manager, Personal Financial Advisor, and Medical and Health Services Manager. These careers don’t necessarily align with my current plans but I don’t have much of a plan now anyways. Rather, I am open to exploring any field. All three traits from my personality code have a strong correlation to careers in the field of business. This area of study has been towards at the top of my list. The reason I am hesitant about majoring in business is because I know I could major in something else and still get a minor in business or still work in a business setting if I have the experience and skill set required. The career options that the website suggested seem very specific. However, when I do think about specific careers that would align with my strengths, disregarding interests, a job such as a financial advisor would be suitable. I am good at handling money, strong in math and I like working with people. However, I do have in interest in traveling to different places and learning about new cultures. I also am interested in protection of lands and climate change. This is where a major like geography becomes relevant. In this upcoming semester, I am planning on taking courses that expose me to these different areas and allow me to further discover what I am passionate about learning about. My parents have told me to get a job where I can make enough money to do the things I want to do rather than having a job that you completely love no matter what the salary is. With that, there are pressures from them, including the fact that they are the ones investing in my education, to make myself marketable. Just like we were told in class, I am aware that my career path will change many times so I am finding it difficult to make a set plan. I know my interests will change as they already do so frequently.
