I’m About to Graduate but Don’t Know What Career Path to Take - What Should I Do?

Dear Yvonne,

I am 24 and I am about to finish my first degree in History and International Studies. I am not sure what step to take next, I don’t see how this degree is profitable, and I am not even sure what to do with it. My relatives abroad said I should come and study Nursing but I don’t want to go from being an arts student to being a science student, I’m not sure I can handle that change. I've also heard nursing is a lot of work physically and mentally. They also suggested Social Work which I can consider. I am also considering reading International Business in Masters, mostly because I’m hoping to land a job that would cause me to travel often.

Please I just need some advice, I want a stable future, I want a career that I can feel financially secure in. I am honestly not sure what I truly have interests in but I know I enjoy writing and public speaking to an extent. I also feel like I am too old and don’t have the luxury of time as I am finishing my first degree in my mid-twenties due to strikes, COVID-19, and the general sluggishness of Federal schools. Please, what would you advise me to go for? What steps should I take in finding what will be best for me?

Yvonne says,

Firstly, you’re NEVER too old for anything though I understand your concerns. You have an amazing future ahead of you and the sooner you begin to take control of your life and not let others make decisions for you, the faster you’ll begin to build the life you want. It sounds like you already know what you desire out of a job; stability, financial reward, travel, creativity, and visibility. The path you’re on is an internationally recognized one and regardless of which path you choose, it’s important to be the best you can be in the job/role.

Many people who study International Relations/Studies work in humanitarian organizations and global organizations, and many people who study International Business go on to have amazing careers. Think about the functions within a company: Finance, HR, Risk, Operations, Marketing, and so on. Which of these can you see yourself building your career in and applying your knowledge? Do some research and find out the career paths of people who have studied your degree.

I’ll end this with a metaphor; think of yourself as a plant that moves towards the light. You have to move towards what calls you, you have to be in constant motion. Try different things and graduate-level roles to see which functions in a company appeal to you the most. Follow your heart, and take control of your decisions.