Introduction Blog

            Before starting this class, I really was not sure what career development had to do with psychology.  I always try to start new things with an open mind, and I am glad I did so with this class.  While hoping to learn more about why I chose my career path, I have reflected on my past to see if things lined up appropriately.  Like many others, I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grow up.  I believe high school is too soon to fully know what you want to do for the rest of your life.  My high school provided me with adequate resources in career services; however, like those without the benefit of such resources, left me with the same feeling of doubt and lack of clarity towards my future.  During my first year of undergraduate studies I was quick to declare a major, which was pharmacy.  The three deciding factors for choosing this major was based on how much money I would make, how much schooling was required for it, and that I excelled in the math and science field of study. 

            Brown makes a very good point in considering that, “Work is one of the central components of life activities…satisfaction derived from work is an important determinant in an individual’s total satisfaction” (Brown, 2012, p. 18).  This is a very strong point that I believe made me change my career path.  I am not sure when or where it hit me, but I somehow unconsciously or consciously decided that I need to enjoy what I do.  Switching to psychology was the best move I could have possibly made in my career path, because after making the switch, there has not been a doubt in my mind about making the wrong decision.  I feel as if career counselors are placing too much stress on what an individual is “good” at, and what will help keep a roof over their heads.  I guess many people nowadays are considered realists and only want what is best for people to survive on.  This is taking away from what I feel should be implemented in young adults heads, which includes what job will you enjoy on a daily basis, and what type of career might someone seek the most fulfillment out of. 

Brown, D. (2012). Career information, career counseling, and career development (10^th

 ed.). New York, NY: Pearson Education, Inc.