We asked W. P. Carey Alumni: Can you share your most helpful advice on how to identify your ideal career path?
Here is what they shared:
- Choose a Career Path that Pushes Your Comfort Zone
- Take in Any and All Feedback… and Use It!
- Follow Your Passions, Even if They Lead to an Unclear Path
- Choose a Career Path that Pushes Your Comfort Zone
After graduating from ASU, I followed the career path that would challenge me the most. The first role offered to me was in an extremely competitive industry, which offered a high upside for the top performers.
I knew if I dedicated myself to mastering this role, I would develop a skill set that would carry me in all avenues of business. For the first year, I was uncomfortable and frequently out of my depth. However, I knew if I persevered, I would eventually adapt to the new environment and responsibility.
By repeatedly putting myself into uncomfortable situations, I developed a new level of confidence in myself and my abilities. I believe that if you’re willing to do the hard work on the front end, then the rest of your career will be that much easier.
Ty Reiley, BS Finance ‘16, Managing Director, Reiley Capital Group
- Take in Any and All Feedback… and Use It
You might think that you have a passion for a certain industry or role, but is that the only thing you’d be good at or passionate about?
During my internships, I tried to find and develop a relationship with one trusted person (at a minimum) who could be a mentor. Ask them, “What else could you see me doing?”, “Is there a specific path you think could help me get to XXXX?”, “I’m in a dilemma and could use your help.”
You might find that your ideal career path is something you would’ve never thought of by using the feedback given by trusted, more experienced professionals.
Frankie McLister, Certificate International Business, Specialist, Global Operations Communications, American Airlines
- Follow Your Passions, Even if They Lead to an Unclear Path
Identifying your ideal career path can take many forms. The logical thing to do is to get a job that focuses on your college major, get real-world experience, climb the ladder, and retire at a decent age.
However, even the smartest and most successful people I’ve met and/or worked with have not followed the ideal career plan they laid out for themselves. There will be twists and turns along your journey that you’re not able to forecast, and what you’re interested in and passionate about today could be completely different in five years or even one year.
The key that I’ve learned is to be open to an unclear path. As long as what you’re doing professionally is something that aligns with your values, gives you hope, and motivates you to learn more. Life is far too short to do something where you feel unfulfilled!
Austin Hennen Vigil, BS Marketing ‘17, Senior Media Strategist, April Six
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