How to decide on a career transition/not going back to school to do so?

Mary Tarantino

May 10,2023 at 4:36PM UTC

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How to decide on a career transition/not going back to school to do so?

I've been contemplating changing careers pretty much since before I graduated college. I realized my major was not something I was passionate enough about or was really that "good" at grades wise to want to work in the field full time. I double majored in Nutrition and added on EcoGastronomy my junior year. I worked in a pediatric hospital right after school in the diet office, but my poor manager put a sour taste in my mouth about the job and field in general. Since then, I've been working as a full time nanny for several families for the past 3+ years.

I do not know how to go about selecting a new career. I have so many different interests that I could see myself working in that field, but every time I try to narrow down my list I get stuck on actually committing to one. I also feel like most careers require some schooling or a master's degree on that subject. I do not want to go back to school to incur more debt if I don't have to. I realize some things it is an absolute requirement (such as drs, lawyers, etc.), but is there any way I can use my undergraduate in nutrition and my work experience as a stepping stone to switch fields? Any comments and advice are appreciated!

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AnonymousMay 10,2023 at 5:24PM UTC
Take the Clifton Strengths assessment to find what you're good at and like to do. Then follow their recommendations for finding careers at ONet. This should be a good start for you.
Cara HouserMay 10,2023 at 5:52PM UTC
The only way to "find" a career path that fits is to try out different options.
Did you like the pediatric hospital aside from the manager? There are terrible managers everywhere and we all have things to learn, so ruling out that entire direction based on one person you did not get along with is shortsighted.
Research career paths that involve your level of education + interests and start applying to the most appealing ones. Try one for a year or two and see how it goes. Pivot from there as needed as you gather experience and skills and learn more about different paths and ways to grow in your field.
You don't need to "know" for sure in order to start. It's actually impossible to know in advance exactly how the future is going to pan out. Getting into the game, doing your best, and learning along the way is the best way to find out.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistMay 11,2023 at 6:10AM UTC
Unless you're looking for a very specific career like the ones you mentioned above, most do not require a Master's.
AnonymousMay 17,2023 at 3:04PM UTC
I think first the perspective needs to shift a poor manager should be motivation to lead differently when you move up in your career or to find a better hospital or team to work with. It shouldn’t not sour your outlook on a career choice. Secondly think about your personal life. Where do you want to live? How do you want to spend your time? What are your core values? Thirdly is when you want to start researching. Talk with friends about their job experiences and see what positions are in demand in your area.