I have to decide soon

I am torn between two career options, completely opposite in ways of getting them. I have senior year to decide, but after that, I have to choose. The sooner I decide, the better, because both could use some preparation. So, I’ll give you give some of my pros and cons and info on each, and hopefully you guys can help me decide. Thank you!

Doctorate in Psychology (any job in field expect therapy)
I would have to work very hard senior year, and go somewhere that has a high ranking in the psychology field. My family is low income, so I’d also have to take the tuition into account, meaning I might end up living somewhere slightly boring for college. It would cost a lot of money, but eventually I’d be working in a mental hospital or research facility. I would probably end up making good money, and would have something to show for myself and my family with a good professional career.

My own business
It would be art and music related. An all ages venue and a center for those interested in the arts. I would sell local zines, artwork, and music. My friend wants to partner with me to sell her sculptures and homemade furniture. A place playing cool music or movies all day, in which I get to spend my day in a place Ive made my own. I would have to get a bank loan. I would have to buy thousands in equipment, not to mention buying property because I’d want to change it. Id be living in an interesting city, and probably not making much money. It would be a job in which I would be constantly creating, which I love. I would begin with an online store throughout two years of community college in a city near my hometown (which is free), and work as much as possible. There i would save up money for a real store with my partner.

Both I am very passionate about, but sadly I can’t really do both, or fall back on the other if my first choice fails. Whatever advice you all may have is greatly appreciated.

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Ivy

444

3 Answers

1 accepted

This certainly IS a hard decision. Well as you said both careers have pros and cons and both sound pretty interesting.One important aspect that you need to bear in mind is that the way you picture these two careers is different from reality. Sure the second one sounds more appealing cause it is related to your passion.. but still it is WORK and you will have to be able to sustain yourself with that. I think that this aspect may sooner or later change your passion into something else. Of course, that doesn't necessarily have to take place..As I hate taking decision, I'd try to find a compromise. Maybe you can start with one, save some money and then follow your passion.As the others above said, nothing is set in stone. You are the maker of your own destiny. Best of luck :)

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Miriam

204

If you live in the US, you don't usually have to declare a major until your sophomore year of college, because freshman year consists of mostly general courses. As for the cost, if your family is low income, you can qualify for a LOT of financial aid. It's (of course) ultimately your choice, but you might be more successful (money and job availability wise) getting your doctorate, and on the side opening your own business. If you think about it, a lot of people who open their own businesses have to shut down because they don't earn enough money. You could always do what I did, and spend a year or two at a community college to give yourself more time to decide. A college counselor can be a great guide as well!

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Hannah

811

The future isn't set in stone. If you chose to go to school to start working towards your doctorate now, you can always change your mind. If you decide to start your home business now, you can always change your mind. I know it's scary because both options require a financial investment, but sometimes you have to listen to your heart and figure the financial side out later. Whatever you choose, just make sure you have a plan, and remember that the decision doesn't have to be forever.Also, just my two cents, but being in college doesn't mean you can't sell your art and you could easily start your home business while going to school... it would just have to start out slower than if you took it on like a full time career path. Artists need to network and college is a great place to do that. If you go to college, you can use your undergrad years as a time to build an image for yourself, market yourself, network, and lots more. When you finish your undergrad studies, you can always take the time to assess this same question again.

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Kate

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