Some people choose a career path because of the potential income. Others base their career decisions on location because they want to live in a specific area. For example, someone who enjoys nature and wants to live in a remote area might become a forest and conservation worker instead of a financial analyst.
For some, the main concern is job satisfaction. On average, people spend over 90,000 hours working during their lifetime. Considering a career consumes so much time and energy, many people prioritize finding a job they enjoy. Ideally, you’ll find a career path that you enjoy that also meets your financial needs. Let’s look at three career options that could pique your interest and meet your requirements for the perfect career.
1. School Counselor
A school counselor works in elementary, middle, or high schools. They use their skills to help students with behavioral issues. They may also host groups to help children dealing with divorce or other life events that could affect them academically and socially. High school counselors also help students select courses, develop academic courses, and fulfill the admissions requirements for college programs.
A master’s degree in a relevant discipline, such as behavior analysis, is required to become a school counselor. Earning an applied behavior analysis therapy certification is beneficial if your goal is to work with students with behavioral issues. The master’s degree coursework covers applied behavior analysis, behavioral supervision and management, child development, and working with cultural and linguistic diversity in schools. Once you’ve completed the master’s coursework, you’re eligible to take the behavior analyst certification exam to become a certified behavior analyst, which can increase your career opportunities and help you secure a position as a school counselor.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual income for school counselors reached $58,120 in 2020. The BLS expects job prospects for these professionals to increase by 11 percent between 2020 and 2030.
2. Human Resource Manager
Human resource managers ensure businesses have qualified staff to perform essential duties. These management experts oversee hiring, training, and terminating employees. They also help inform critical business decisions about benefits programs and salaries. An HR manager also establishes employee regulations and oversees disciplinary measures when required.
It’s possible to become an HR manager with a bachelor’s degree in a discipline such as human resources, education, or business management. Still, many employers favor applicants with a master’s degree. Therefore, earning a master’s degree in behavior analysis is an excellent option for people considering this career field.
The BLS expects HR managers will see jobs increase by nine percent between 2020 and 2030. As of 2020, HR managers took home a median annual income of $121,220, almost three times the average median annual income for all occupations.
3. Beautician
Beauticians spend their careers making people look their best. Beauticians include hairdressers, barbers, manicurists, and cosmetologists. The BLS reports that barbers earned a median hourly rate of $15.61 in 2020, while the median hourly rate for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists was $13.16 the same year. The BLS projects job opportunities for barbers will grow by 18 percent between 2020 and 2030, while hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists should see jobs increase by 19 percent during the same period.
Barbers, hairdressers, and hairstylists cut and style hair. These professionals may use dyes to change a hair’s color or apply chemicals to give a client a perm. It’s common for people to visit a stylist before special events, such as their prom or wedding. Hairstylists manipulate their hair and add unique items, such as flowers or beads, to style their hair desirably.
Becoming a beautician involves completing a cosmetology program and obtaining a license. For example, aspiring beauticians learn about cutting hair, styling hair, manicures, pedicures, and skincare. Students can apply for financial aid to pay for tuition until they meet the certification requirements, graduate, and qualify for licensure.
Choosing a suitable career path can involve identifying high-paying careers that meet your financial expectations. You may also favor occupations with good job stability that are suited to your interests.
