CHOOSING A CAREER

Choosing a Career Should not be Based on only Earning Money.

I asked a young person what he wanted to become. His answer was that he wanted to train as a lawyer. I went on to inquire why he wanted to become a lawyer. He told me that he wanted to earn a lot of money. His answer shocked me. It is an indicator of the basis that students use to choose courses at university is not comprehensive. Inadequate career guidance makes students choose courses without adequate inquiry. I asked him if he has a mentor who is a lawyer and his answer was no.

I am not trying to undermine the fact that money is key to career pursuit but it should not be the first basis for choosing a career. The pursuit of money is elusive. I think the right foundation for choosing a career should be related to one’s purpose in life. A student should choose subject combinations where they have passion. We have cases where students have graduated and given the “degrees” to their parents and proceeded to pursue what they want in life after toiling for years at the campus.

Career pursuit must never be left to chance.

How to choose the right career?

Have a clear and long-term purpose for your life. This will help a student to make the right choices.
Discover your talents and passions. A career is not just earning money. There are many people who are earning a lot of money but they are not happy at their jobs.
Seek mentorship. There are many experienced professionals who are willing to provide quality advice if asked. If a student wants to become a medical doctor he or she should be attached to a successful medical doctor who will provide the right direction to the student.

Phillip Kiryowa

Values and Leadership Trainer.

email: kiryowaphillip@gmail.com