What are the three most common careers that high school students aspire to?

As a junior currently trying to figure out what I might want to do with my life, I'm curious about what my peers are thinking. What are the three most common careers that us high schoolers tend to want?

Interesting question! While the career interests of high school students can cover a wide array of fields, there are certainly some professions that seem to come up more frequently. Based on surveys conducted in the recent years, these are the top three professions:

1. Medicine: Many students aspire to work in healthcare as it is a field known for its robust job market and opportunities to help others. Potential careers in this field run the gamut from becoming a doctor or a nurse to being a physical therapist or a pharmacist.

2. Technology/Computer Science: As we live in an increasingly digital world, jobs in technology, particularly in software development, coding, and cyber security, are becoming more and more popular among high schoolers. This field is often associated with high salary potential and opportunities for creativity and innovation.

3. Engineering: Jobs in engineering, whether it's mechanical, civil, environmental, or any other discipline, are also often cited by high school students as their potential career goal. This career path is attractive for its blend of creativity, problem-solving, and practical real-world application.

Of course, these trends can vary depending on many factors, such as region, individual interests, and exposure to different career paths. It's also worth noting that career aspirations can shift over time, especially as students gain more life and educational experiences. Also, many end up in careers they hadn't considered in high school! Exploring a range of interests can open up unexpected pathways and possibilities.