How do I choose?
You do best when you’re doing something you enjoy, right?
So make a list of strengths, favourite subjects, and stuff you
enjoy. Then find out about careers that involve them.
Favourite Subjects
- Language rich subjects (English, History, Geo) can lead to law, environmental study, journalism, recruitment, web content development, sales, policy analysis
- Maths can lead to engineering, finance, accounting, computer programming, construction, telecommunications
- Music can lead to sound production, composition, performance, teaching, instrument making, reviewing, the film industry
- Science can lead to environmental protection, biotechnology, engineering, creation of new products, biosecurity, wine making
- Technology can lead to building, automotive, flooring, roofing, cabinet making, cooking, fashion production…. and so on.
Hot tip: If you love a subject but can't
see a clear career path, don’t worry. Study opens up new
ideas and roles. Alternatively, take a year off study and work,
while figuring it out. But explore, don’t drift!
Strengths
Ask yourself things like…
- Do I like working alone or in groups?
- Am I a leader or follower?
- Do I come up with new ideas or am I good at picking up ideas and helping make things happen?
- Am I creative, caring or analytical?
- Am I good at talking people into doing things?
- What would I hate to NOT have in my life?
What about stuff you enjoy?
Are you always drawing, playing sport, fixing your car, writing? Do you feel like a limb has been cut off if you're not with friends, or can't access Counter Strike.
Choose where you fit
These suggestions will help identify your career self and make it easier to avoid static. Focus on jobs that sound interesting, trawl websites, visit career centres for info on roles that 'fit' different subjects. Look for information on jobs involving things you like to do www.worksite.govt.nz.
School turned me off – why carry on?
You don't have to. Work is a good option. However, tertiary study is different from school. You have more choices and can concentrate on subjects you really enjoy and are practical.
Hot tip: Make the most of www.careers.govt.nz. It is a valuable website. The Jobs section is full of information about roles Kiwis work in, including information about skills, knowledge and personal qualities required, plus labour market information and salary scales for each role.
 
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