Hope for the confused student

At the recent US Education group’s exhibition, I met many students who came up to me saying they were confused and did not know what major to choose or what career to pursue.

I realise that some of you are at a very important crossroad of your life, a time to research options that help make life-impacting decisions.

Some of you are overwhelmed and anxious, while some others are secure in the knowledge that the decision has been made, and still others are putting off the decision until after the board/university exam results.

Look within

Well, the plethora of choices before you though exciting, is also intimidating. The answers lie within you, not just outside. Each of us is endowed with a myriad skills, interests, aptitudes, experiences and capabilities.

We are like quilts with vibrant colours and beautiful patterns. When that bug called confusion bites, introspect, reflect on the subjects you find interesting, your talents and hobbies. Whether you are in grade nine, in the final year at university or in a dead-end job, start building a portfolio.
 

Make a portfolio

Your career portfolio could be a record of your dreams and aspirations. Include in this your long-term and short-term plans, your scholastic achievements, your hobbies, leadership initiatives, positive contributions in the community, interests, whether in sports, drama, music, public speaking or blogging.

Seek opportunities to acquire transferrable skills, become a member of clubs that interest you whether in school or outside, record all significant events, however innocuous they may seem.

Ask yourself, what are the values that are important to me? What are some of the careers my friends/family suggested for me? Why? What am I good at? Where would I like to settle down? What summer jobs have I taken up? What sorts of people do I like being around?

Emerging patterns

As months/years go by, patterns emerge and you recognise your unique abilities, preferences and acquire a better self-understanding.

When you research options, do the pros and cons exercise to see what works and what doesn’t. Each person is different. It is not one size fits all!

Interests may undergo change as we grow older but some basic interests, values and personality traits remain the same. Take an aptitude test and have a discussion with a counsellor. Explore different options; research the job opportunities in your field of interest.

Attend career fairs, educational exhibitions, take up internships and try to shadow a professional in your area of interest. Set realistic targets for yourself and develop career alternatives.

Change is a universal constant and we all need to adapt to change. Constantly upgrade your skills and keep abreast with the times. By being lifetime learners alone can we survive in this fast-paced world.

The writer is director of Counselling Point. She holds a masters degree in medical and psychiatric social work. She has more than 22 years of experience in the fields of education and child welfare. Email counsell@eim.ae or visit www.counsellingpoint.com for more information.