What do I want to be when I grow up

I have always been jealous of those who always knew what they wanted to be when they grew up. At one time, I wanted to be a special education teacher. Unfortunately, when I job shadowed a teacher she discouraged me. She said I would go to school for eight years to only like my job for the first few years. That didn't sound like a good path.

I then had a great school newspaper advisor. She encouraged me to stay in communications. She helped me line up job shadows. I viewed all different types of media: radio, TV, and newspaper. Participating in job shadows were great. It allowed me to ask a lot of questions. Plus I was able to experience the job before committing to four years of school. After spending the day at the three different media outlets, I chose to major in communications.

After graduating I landed a job in graphic arts for a hot tub and spa company. Although it didn't quite utilize my degree, it was something I enjoyed. I did various graphic artist jobs for about 10 years. One year I did some volunteer work. It was then realized I was ready to step away from an 8-hour desk job to do community work. I worked as a coordinator for a Volunteer Center. Then I did grant community organizing at Northeastern WI Area Health Education Center (NEWAHEC) where I am now Executive Director.

One summer I was asked to help chaperone at NEWAHEC's summer camp. A week-long camp for high school students to explore and experience over 20 health career opportunities. During that week I could have easily changed my career about 10 times. In the end, I did not change my career but was impressed by the opportunity for the students. I wish every student would have this opportunity.

To this day I am not certain I am in the right career. I do know unless you know for sure what you want to be when you grow up, job shadows are a great opportunity. NEWAHEC provides job shadow and career experience opportunities. They still offer the health careers summer camp which is another great way to explore various health careers.

There are hundreds of different health career opportunities. Some only require a high school or two-year degree. For those who can't handle blood, there are opportunities for you as well. Some positions require you work with patients and other jobs do not. No matter what though there is always a need for healthcare professionals.

If you don't know what you want to be when you grow up, I would encourage you to look at the healthcare profession. Meet with NEWAHEC staff to discuss your likes, interests, and skills to determine which health career would be a good fit for you.