2008 Woodie Awards
Majors, Careers, Life...
David Srolovitz
Issue date: 10/15/07 Section: Opinion
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Advice #1: Talk to people. Get advice. But, make your own decisions.
Advice #2: Identify what you're looking for in a career. In my opinion, the perfect job is the one that (1) you look forward to going to every Monday morning, (2) pays you enough so you don't have to worry constantly about money, (3) gives you the satisfaction that you have accomplished something meaningful, and (4) allows you enough time for your family, your learning … The corollary to this theorem is that no job is perfect or at least not perfect for everyone. The goal is to optimize this combination of characteristics for you.
Advice #3: You are more likely to excel if you enjoy what you are doing. This is true in your career and in college. Do what you find compelling.
Advice #4: So … know thyself. Easier said than done. But, college is the place to begin (you never finish). If you are not sure where your true love lies, explore. Take introductory-level courses in as many areas as you can EARLY in your academic career as possible. There will be time for the requirements later.
Advice #5: Don't make assumptions - find out. Many students think that if they want a career in X, they should major in Y. This is RARELY true. Ask well-placed people in the field "what do you look for when you are hiring?" Talk to the counselors in our Career Services office. Talk to the staff in our Academic Advisement Center. Medical schools don't require you to be a biology major - in fact, you may have better chances as a classics major. Law schools look favorably on all liberal arts subjects but increasingly are interested in students with science backgrounds. In many areas of business, companies put a premium on people who can communicate (in writing and orally) and who can think analytically and/or quantitatively. There are real advantages in looking different from others who are applying for the same position. Choose a major that speaks to you and do not be overly concerned about how it prepares you for a specific career. You may, however, need extra courses to supplement one major to open doors to a career in a different field.
Advice #6: Do not limit your options earlier than necessary. Even though you may have your heart set on a career in neurosurgery, even the most serious student may decide after 3 years of focused preparation that philosophy is what really floats his boat. Now what? Keep an open mind. Be prepared to choose left or right when the road forks, but do not make irreversible decisions before you get to the fork. Good writing, analytical thought … will serve you well no matter which path you choose.
Acharon, acharon chaviv, talk to your parents, talk to your professors, talk to your rebbi - get advice, get information, test assumptions, and when the time comes for you to make choices, make them with your eyes open.