I'm not sure what my next steps should be.

7 Comments

1. AnonymousSeptember 5,2023 at 12:29PM UTC

   Don't go into debt with a Master's degree before talking with senior members in your field. Perhaps you need some mentoring.

2. AnonymousSeptember 5,2023 at 2:31PM UTC

   It sounds like you might benefit from an internship, shadowing, or other trial-run situation in a different area of the field. You'll likely need a Masters, if not a PhD, to work at the top of your field, so be sure it's what you really want before committing to that pathway. It's unfortunate that you've had a poor experience in the one role you've had, but keep in mind it may be just that job, those colleagues, that boss, the company, etc and not the work itself. Take some time to see if you can separate how you feel about the actual work vs your current work environment. If it's the work environment but your heart is still in the work, then you may just need to work somewhere else. Best of luck!

3. AnonymousSeptember 5,2023 at 7:36PM UTC

   Looks like you need to go to work first and work on masters later. Apply at public schools. Kids have lots of developmental psychology problems, as do the teachers.

4. AnonymousSeptember 6,2023 at 1:10AM UTC

   Most jobs in this area will require licensing, which will also need a Master's degree in some form of counseling. I would consult with the career center at your college to get a clear direction on your best course of action. They can help you with your resume and interviewing skills. They may also have some job referrals.

5. AnonymousSeptember 6,2023 at 2:12PM UTC

   I would sit down and have a hard conversation with yourself. What do you want? Then look at areas where what you want fits with the degree you are getting. Financial security sounds great and is where all of us would like to be but having a job you're miserable in is not worth any amount of money.

6. Monette AndersonSeptember 8,2023 at 1:10PM UTC

   I work in an industry where many people start a job in one career path and it’s not a fit but there are many options or it just wasn’t the right organization. Rather than leave the profession entirely after all you’ve put in I would reach out to your state professional organization. Ask if they have professionals you can reach out to, go to a networking event or conference or do informational interviews. Share what your struggles are and ask about their career path. You can learn so much and may find some clarity in how you can make slight adjustments to make this career more in line with what you wanted.

7. AnonymousSeptember 9,2023 at 6:51PM UTC

   You will need to envision what your ideal role will be like and take steps to move towards that goal.

   Why did you major in psychology? Was the goal to become a therapist, psychologist, research, etc? Then you know will need at least a master's degree. You will not get many opportunities that you will enjoy specific to psychology with only a bachelor's degree in psychology.

   If you don't know, what you want to do and if psychology is even right for you, then start working! It does not matter if the role is ideal. With little experience, you will be looking for entry-level roles. The idea right now is to try to figure out what you like and don't like. Working will also expose you to roles and ideas that you never knew existed or considered.

   Also, remember, life is a journey. Trust your intuition. It's okay to make mistakes. The most important thing is to learn from them. You will find what is right for you.