How Do You Choose an Educational Program?

As you make decisions about continuing your education, be aware of the reasons that you choose a college, academic major, or career goal. Making these choices for the right reasons means, in part, avoiding making them for the wrong reasons. For example, don't go to XYZ University just because your friends are going there; don't major in chemistry just because your mother is a chemist; don't become a Certified Public Accountant because your favorite uncle is a CPA.

It is a good idea to question your mother and your Uncle John about their careers and to watch them at work to see if either profession appeals to you. Discussing your career choices with others, including your parents, will help you see the possibilities and sort through the confusion. Always keep in mind the need to be realistic: base your decisions on facts, observations and on your own interests and abilities.

To make your final choice, you need some idea of your career or employment goals, or at least what your preferences are. Asking yourself the following questions will help you explore your academic and vocational interests.

What Are Your Life Goals?

It's easy for someone to tell you to sit down and decide what you really want to do with your life. It's harder to figure out how to do it. You probably daydream about achievements for which you'd like to be remembered. What do these fantasies reveal about you? Do they involve working with or helping others? Do they show that you prefer to work on your own toward some accomplishment or discovery? Are they family-oriented? Do they reflect a desire to travel?

Once you have an idea of the general direction you want your life to take, you need to consider how to achieve your goals. What skills, knowledge, and abilities must you acquire to realize your ambitions?

What Are Your Career Goals?

Since so many adult waking hours are spent at work, life goals and career goals are often closely related. If you are unsure of your career or vocational goals, start with your high school experience. Consider what courses you are successful in and what classes you enjoy. Don't forget that your activities outside of class may also point to potential career interests.

There are a number of tests that measure interests and preferences. The Meyers-Briggs test is one example. The responses you give on the test can be related to specific careers or areas of study. Ask your counselor if such tests are available.

You should also ask the reference librarian at your school for books that can help you explore career possibilities and choices. Don't overlook adult relatives and family friends working in career fields that interest you. Develop a list of questions you can ask them about their everyday work to see if it appeals to you. If it does, find out about the training they received to work in their fields.

National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators
Opening Doors of Educational Opportunity
Copyright © 2004 by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.
All rights reserved.
Updated April 2004.