How did you decide? (for women with careers**)

[Jemmy]

How did you know the career you have is what you really wanted? What about it made you think "Yes, this is what I really want to do with my life?"

I'm thinking of switching majors (huge change in my original one) because of my location and better opportunities. I'm the type of person who would love to just dabble in a little bit of everything but that's obviously not logical right now.

What helped you make the decision you made, how long have you stuck with it, and how long did it take you to decide in the first place?

**careers being outside of the home.

[alwayskk]

It kind of chose me. I was always good with literature and language arts and my friends naturally asked for my help with their classes. My sophomore year, a friend asked me to tutor her and it turned into a two year long tutoring deal. She went from barely being able to read to finishing her ENGL classes without my help in two years. I realized I was pretty good at it so that's what I decided to pursue.

I was originally planning to teach college, not public school. But, I needed a job and couldn't find one so I turned to substituting because a friend of mine had done it. I fell in love with it. I've been working in public education for going on two years now.

I am still in school, so we will see what happens when I am hired to teach full time.

[ShesALady]

I haven't started yet but Im going to school soon for physical therapist. I'm currently a CNA and love my job but the pay isn't the best. I don't want to be a nurse that's just too much stress and we have a therapy room in my facility. Its something I'd love to do. I can still work with the elderly, the pay will be better, and it's just something I'm interested in.

[FL2AK]

I knew that I wanted to work in the field of social work, psychology or counseling because I had always had an interest in those areas. I looked for a position in any of those areas that was entry level and did not require a degree so I could make sure that I was choosing the right career. Once I started working I spoke with those who were higher up to see which degree would match my goals. After that I started college.

It was great to have the support of people who had been in the field for many years. I was able to work my way up while I earned my bachelors and masters. My employer even paid for a good portion of my education as long as I agreed to stay there and pay back my time.

Working while going to college for 6 years with a family was difficult but it made me so much more competitive in the job market.

I am going on 8 years in my career and 4 in my current position.

My best advice is that if you aren't sure what you want to do go volunteer in the areas you are interested in. Do not finish a degree if you aren't sure. Also, make sure there are jobs in your area and you have the right courses to get the jobs. Start networking with those in the career field already. Find a mentor.

[xo.MommyW.xo]

I work in the medical field. Because there are always jobs to be had

[milmomma2006]

Well, I'm in the military for now. I chose to do this because my dd's father couldn't hold a job to save his life. Someone had to step up and provide for her, so I did. Originally I wanted to make a career out of this. I absolutely love my job and everything about being in the military, even the bad stuff! But after about 3 years, some shady stuff happened and now I'm just buying my time until my enlistment is up. When I get out I am going to go to school. But I have no idea what to do! I'm just like you are in the dabble in a little bit of everything way, and I'm super indecisive on top of that! I have narrowed it down between two things though. I am very passionate about both subjects and it's so hard to chose! Df's dad gave me the best advice that I've had about it though. He told me to just pick one and go with it. He knows how much I love both things and said that either way I would be happy.

I sometimes wish someone could make all my decisions for me! Lol...

[dlock25]

I love computers and it is an area that is constantly growing now. I worked for 9 years as a Pharmacy Tech in a trauma hospital and now I work in the IT Department. I love my job.

[LoriLou75]

I love animals, didn't have time or money to go to school to be a vet tech. Grooming school was a great answer for me and over 15 years later, I still love my job!

[AmaliaD]

I have always loved school - knew i wanted to teach from the time i was a kid - almost majored in spanish to be a spanish teacher - then i thought about high and middle school kids and changed my mind - i dont like teenagers or two year olds (for the same reasons)  so i majored in early childhood education with a reading endorcement and i do love to teach children how to read.   I have moved over into interventions and title one.  i feel like i have a greater impact there and i do not have to manage a class of 30.   certainly major in something that has a lot of openings in your area - that is the one issue with my major - the field is flooded!

[momma-flynn]

For me, it was finding a job out of necessity & then I've made a career out of it.  

[Jemmy]

Thanks for all the answers ladies! Anyone else? Bump!