What Do You Want to Do?
Some people have known what they’ve wanted to do for years, and are well on their way to getting there. Most of us, though, have several different interests but don’t necessarily know how to turn them into a career.
Explore Your Interests
There are a number of ways to find out what interests you enough to pursue it as a career.
Take Some Time to Prepare
Who says you need to go right from high school to post-secondary? If you’re overwhelmed with options - or even by nothing at all - a gap year can help you find out what interests you most. There are a number of different ways to spend a gap year. You can:
- Take high school upgrading or other post-secondary preparation courses
- Travel to explore new places and cultures
- Work to try out different career options
- Volunteer in areas that interest you to build experience
Exploring new things can help you find out what you want to pursue. If you work during the year, you can also save money to help pay for your post-secondary education in the future.
Cullen, a Learning Clicks Ambassador, took a year between high school and post-secondary to work in different jobs. This time became an important part of his learner pathway, as it helped him figure out he wants to work in business.
Research Career Options
Once you’ve landed on some possible career options, research more about the job, including the training you would need and how much you could make.
You can also contact regulatory associations for careers you want to pursue to learn more about the profession, including their advice for those who are starting out. If the job requires specialized training, chances are there is a regulatory body that guides what credentials you will need to be successful. Try searching online for the words ‘regulatory body’ + your profession’s name (such as ‘regulatory body licensed practical nurse Alberta’).
When You Don’t Know Where to Start
Going Back to School After Time Away
The longer you stay away from a school environment, the more daunting it can feel to go back. That said, that time away also better prepares you for the classroom - you’re more focused on what you want to do, and how to get there.
These resources can help you juggle school with other responsibilities you might have now, whether it’s kids, a job or other pressures:
It’s Okay to Change Your Mind
Did you start one program, only to find out you wanted to take something else instead? You’re one of thousands of Alberta students who do this every year. If you’re not sure if you’re making the right decision, resources like Making Hard Choices can help.
The education you’ve already taken could be transferable to your new program. Use the Transfer Alberta Search tool to find out.
Getting Past Roadblocks
Do you want to go back to school, but aren’t sure you can make it work? Here are some common concerns and how you can get around them.
Don’t Meet Admission Requirements
Need to improve your grades to get into your post-secondary program? Several post-secondary institutions offer high school upgrading.
Don’t have a high school diploma or need foundational learning? See if there’s a community adult learning program in your area that can help. They offer informal learning options and support that can get you on the path to post-secondary learning.
Some post-secondary programs are also offered by several different institutions. Research these options, including online programs, to see if you meet those prerequisites. You can then talk to the institutions you’re considering about starting at one institution before transferring to another.
No Money
Most of us need help to pay for our post-secondary education. Alberta’s admissions and transfer system is designed to make it easier for you to pay for your education.
- Consider a university transfer program, where you can start your education at an Alberta college and finish at a university
- Building a budget will help you find out how much you need to cover the costs of your education, while also making sure you can pay your rent and other expenses
- Student Aid Alberta provides loans and grants, and helps you find information about scholarships and bursaries, that help you meet the costs of living and learning
You’d Need to Move
Do you want to take a program that’s only offered outside of your community? You might be able to start taking your program without having to move.
- Find out if some courses can be taken for transfer to your program of choice through local post-secondary institutions
- See if you can take some of your program's courses online
Talk To the Experts
Still not sure what you want to do, or want to connect with people who can talk to you about the career you want to pursue? These resources can help you narrow down your interests, explore certain professions and investigate post-secondary learning options.
