Hi, I’m a freshman in college and I’m having a hard time picking a major/career path.. I know I’m at the begining of my education and everyone changes their minds alot, but I’d really like to try to sort things out now so I’m not wasting so much time and money (I don’t want loads of debt!!) I’m interested in a bunch of different things, especially languages. Fashion intrests me, but it seems too difficult, teaching sounds ok, but pays peanuts 
and a medical career like dermatology or physical therapy sounds neat, but I don’t want to go to school for an extremely long time… If anyone has any ideas or advice about what to do/how to do/where to go to get an idea on what major/career would be best, or what careers there are in languages, fashion, teaching, or medical careers that don’t involve a PhD, I’d greatly appreciate it! Thanks
#1 by lei on February 24, 2010 - 8:19 am
Luckily you have 2 years of general education to finish up, so you don’t have to pick your major right away. I chose mine (government) because I found the classes fascinating.
Languages are useful if you develop fluency. The government (for one) is always looking for translators. Many positions call for someone to be bilingual, especially in Spanish. This could make a good minor for you.
If you are interested in medical careers, you could consider becoming an ultrasound technician. The coursework is relatively short.
You don’t need a PhD to be a teacher, but many schools look for a Master’s degree. As for fashion, that takes natural talent more than anything. If you like writing you could try working for a magazine or paper (very competitive field though).
I encourage you to do what you are most interested in, and you will be sure to excel. Hopefully your college has a career center that can offer you more advice. Just think carefully before you specialize in something that could paint you into a corner.
#2 by kcthinke on February 24, 2010 - 10:56 am
Pick up a language. Look up in a almanac and see what are the most common languages in the community you want to work in.
Software and ways to solve problems in saving time and creating new money are popular in business. Seek computer knowledge and math knowledge.
The locksmith trade would be an option with all the new needs for security and computer key cards.
#3 by Princess on February 24, 2010 - 12:27 pm
Be a biligual fashion teacher, and be a candy stiper on the weekends. That way, you might not be making much money, but you can write off mileage and whatever you spend on donating your services.
#4 by Brn_Eye_ on February 24, 2010 - 2:56 pm
What about learning multiple languages (even sign language) and becoming a translator or interpretor? You could then work independently and work on t.v., work for the U.N., work for a corporation – maybe a fashion corporation, etc.http://www.bls.gov/oco/