Choosing a college course is a significant decision that can impact your career prospects, financial stability, and overall satisfaction with your job in the future. One of the best ways to make an informed choice is by speaking with professionals already working in your field of interest. They can provide firsthand insights into the realities of the job, career progression opportunities, and skills in demand.
Many students rely solely on online research or university brochures when selecting a course, but these resources often do not provide a realistic picture of day-to-day work in a profession. Talking to industry experts helps bridge this gap, giving you a deeper understanding of what to expect after graduation. This article outlines the steps to effectively connect with professionals and get the most valuable information before choosing your college course.
1. Identify the Right Professionals to Speak With
Before reaching out to professionals, define your career interests. If you are undecided, consider making a list of careers that appeal to you based on your skills, interests, and values. Once you have a general direction, start looking for professionals in those fields.
Ways to identify the right people:
- LinkedIn – Search for professionals working in industries that interest you and check their career paths.
- University Alumni Networks – Many universities have alumni networks where you can connect with graduates who pursued careers related to your interests.
- Career Fairs and Networking Events – These events provide opportunities to meet industry professionals face-to-face.
- Family and Friends – Ask if anyone in your personal network works in a field that interests you.
Speaking with people at different career stages—entry-level employees, mid-career professionals, and senior experts—can give you a well-rounded perspective on a profession.
2. Prepare Before Reaching Out
Professionals are often busy, so it is important to be respectful of their time and come prepared with clear questions. Before reaching out, research the industry and the person you plan to contact.
Things to do before contacting a professional:
- Learn about their job role and responsibilities.
- Read industry news and trends to have an informed discussion.
- Prepare a list of specific questions to ask.
Your message should be concise and polite. If sending an email or LinkedIn message, introduce yourself, explain why you are reaching out, and mention how much time you need (e.g., a 15-minute conversation).
Example of a message:
“Hello [Name], my name is [Your Name], and I am a high school student researching career options before choosing a college course. I am interested in [industry/profession] and would love to learn about your experience. Would you be open to a quick call or meeting to share some insights? I would truly appreciate your time and advice. Thank you!”
3. Ask the Right Questions
The quality of the information you receive depends on the questions you ask. Your goal should be to gain practical knowledge about the career, industry trends, and the best college courses to prepare for the field.
Some useful questions include:
- Career Insights: What does a typical workday look like in your profession?
- Education and Training: What college courses or degrees are most useful for this career?
- Skills and Qualifications: What technical and soft skills are essential for success in this field?
- Career Progression: How does career growth work in this industry? What are the promotion opportunities?
- Industry Challenges: What are the biggest challenges faced by professionals in this field?
- Work-Life Balance: What is the typical workload, and how does it affect work-life balance?
- Job Market Outlook: Is this industry growing, and what are the job prospects in the coming years?
Taking notes during the conversation will help you compare different career paths later.
4. Observe and Evaluate Their Responses
While professionals will likely provide helpful advice, it is also important to pay attention to their tone and enthusiasm when discussing their careers. If someone speaks passionately about their work, it may indicate that the industry offers a fulfilling career path. On the other hand, if they emphasize job instability, stress, or lack of work-life balance, it is worth considering these factors when choosing your course.
Try to speak with multiple professionals in the same industry to get different perspectives. Not all career experiences are the same, and opinions can vary based on company culture, job roles, and personal preferences.
5. Consider Shadowing or Interning Before Making a Decision
If possible, go beyond conversations and try to gain hands-on experience in your field of interest. Shadowing a professional for a day or doing a short internship can provide even greater clarity about whether a career is right for you.
Ways to gain real-world experience:
- Job Shadowing: Ask a professional if you can observe their work for a day.
- Internships: Some companies offer internships for high school or early college students.
- Volunteering: Some industries, like healthcare and education, offer volunteer opportunities that provide industry exposure.
These experiences allow you to see firsthand whether a profession aligns with your expectations and interests.
6. Compare Your Findings and Make an Informed Decision
After speaking with professionals and gaining experience, compare the information you gathered. Ask yourself:
- Did the career expectations align with what I imagined?
- Am I excited about the skills and daily tasks required for this job?
- Do I see myself working in this industry long-term?
If a career path still interests you after thorough research, you can move forward with confidence in your college course selection. If not, continue exploring other options until you find a better fit.
7. Stay Open to New Interests and Career Changes
Even after extensive research, your interests and goals may change over time. Many professionals switch careers at some point in their lives. Choosing a college course does not mean committing to a single career forever.
To maintain flexibility:
- Choose a degree that offers transferable skills (e.g., business, computer science, communications).
- Consider double majoring or minoring in related fields.
- Keep learning and developing new skills throughout your career.
Career exploration is an ongoing process, and staying adaptable will help you navigate changes in the job market and personal interests.
Final Thoughts
Speaking with professionals before choosing a college course is one of the most valuable steps in making an informed decision. Their insights provide real-world perspectives on job roles, career growth, and industry trends, helping students avoid common pitfalls and make choices that align with their aspirations.
By identifying the right professionals, preparing thoughtful questions, and gaining hands-on experience, students can confidently select a college course that leads to a fulfilling and successful career. Taking the time to research and connect with experts ensures that higher education is a well-planned investment in the future.