Is it common for people to have a clear idea about what job they'll be doing after college, especially while they're still in high school? Or is this something most people figure out along the way during college?
It's a mix. Some high school students may have a concrete idea of the career path they wish to pursue, and they choose their college and course of study accordingly. This is often the case with students venturing into fields like medicine, engineering, or law.
However, many high school students do not have a clear career path in mind. A good number of them change their majors at least once during their time in college. The college experience, including courses, internships, experience from extracurriculars and clubs, and advice from faculty and alumni, often helps in exploration and shapes one's career path.
It might be helpful to know that you don't necessarily need a definite career path in high school. It is fine to enter college undecided or to change majors as you evolve and discover more about your interests and passions. Essentially, it's a journey of self-discovery, and it's normal to figure it out along the way. Just remember, college is both a learning experience and a chance to explore new interests and opportunities.
As an example, someone might enter college with the belief they want to pursue a career in journalism, only to discover a passion for environmental studies after taking a few courses. This could lead them to pivot into a career in environmental advocacy or policy.
Hope this helps! It's okay not to have it all figured out right away. Good luck!
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