How to Choose a Career That Fits You

Before job titles, think about the experience you want day-to-day. Your career should be more than just a paycheck, and careers that match your desired lifestyle are more sustainable and satisfying over time.

Action steps:

• Decide if you prefer working outdoors, in labs, with technology, or a mix
• Think about whether you like teamwork, independent work, or both
• Ask yourself what matters most: flexibility, stability, impact, or creativity

Many science careers exist to solve practical challenges, such as growing food, protecting soil and water, adapting to climate change, and supporting communities. If you want to make a difference while making a living, then these careers are a great option. 

Action steps:

• Identify issues you care about (environment, food systems, sustainability, innovation)
• Look for careers that apply science to those challenges
• Focus on what’s possible, not on fixing everything

One major can lead to many careers. Instead of locking onto one job, explore groups of careers that use similar skills. If you care about science and the natural world, career clusters to explore include:

• Agriculture & Food Systems
• Environmental & Natural Resources
• Science & Research
• Data, Technology & Innovation
• Sustainability & Resource Management

Action steps:

• Research several careers within a cluster
• Notice overlapping skills across roles
• Keep options open as interests evolve

Some science careers look very different from what people expect. Many combine science with technology, business, communication, or policy. Not every science career leads to a lab…unless you want it to. 

Action steps:

• Watch short videos or read profiles of professionals in science careers
• Look at what a “day in the life” really involves
• Notice which roles blend science with real-world decision-making

You don’t need to be an expert yet. Careers are built by learning, adapting, and developing skills over time. Set goals based on what you enjoy doing and let your career evolve based on your strengths and experiences. 

Action steps:

• Identify skills you enjoy using (analysis, observation, problem-solving, communication)
• Look for careers that reward curiosity and learning
• Choose paths that allow skill-building, not instant mastery

Careers change … and that’s okay. Many science careers offer multiple pathways across industries and roles. Science careers–especially in agronomy, crop science, soil science and environmental science–are the ultimate in flexibility and adaptability. 

Action steps:

• Look for careers that exist in many sectors (industry, government, research, education)
• Ask how easy it is to pivot or specialize later
• Prioritize adaptability over a single fixed outcome

Careers, majors, and colleges work together. A strong match gives you experience, connections, and options. Plan to take your first steps on the path you want, knowing the journey will change along the way.

Action steps:

• Identify majors that commonly lead to careers you’re exploring
• Choose colleges that support internships, research, or applied learning
• Ask how students gain experience before graduation

The best career insights come from people who are actually doing the work. Ask teachers, counselors, friends and family if they know anyone working in fields you’re interested in, then ask for an introduction. 

Action steps:

• Talk to teachers, counselors, or advisors
• Attend career panels or virtual info sessions
• Ask professionals what they like, what they didn’t expect and what they’d do differently

Your first career choice is a starting point, not a final destination. The right career is one that grows with you, supports your goals, values your skills, and keeps your options open.

Action steps:

• Focus on learning skills and gaining experience
• Stay open to change as you learn more about yourself
• Remember: progress beats perfection