A Future Career in Writing and Communications
By Beth Hood aka GPS Gal
This month I interviewed Jessica, who is anticipating a career in communications, and is currently preparing to take a gap year abroad. Here’s what she says about future path: “I didn't really choose my subject; it chose me..” If you might be considering community college in the future and would like some solid advice about why you should choose this option, or would just like to learn about Jessica’s upcoming gap year, read on…
GPS Gal: What's your current course of study? What degree will you graduate with?
Jessica: I am about to graduate with a general associate of arts degree. I am taking a "gap year" following that, which may turn into a career. However, if I go back to school after that, I will major in communications.
GPS Gal: How long is your program of study? Where are you going to school?
Jessica: I'm getting a 2-year degree at Rogue Community College. I may take some language classes during my gap year as I will be in Spain. I hope to eventually go back to school for two or more years.
GPS Gal: Why did you choose this subject/career path? How did you make this choice?
Jessica: I have always loved writing, and I started professionally writing when I was 17. I also love learning about culture and how people communicate. I didn't really choose my subject; it chose me. I was just sitting at home one night last year thinking about the things I like to study and do, when COMMUNICATIONS hit me!
GPS Gal: What's the most interesting thing about what you are learning?
Jessica: I love learning about different societies and cultures and how they communicate differently.
GPS Gal: What are you planning to do with your studies? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Jessica: For my gap year, I will be an au pair in Spain. I would like to continue being an au pair for several years after as a way to earn money and travel to different countries. I am also currently freelance writing, and I hope that my adventures will make my writing career even better. In 5 years, I see myself travelling the world for humanitarian causes and writing about it.
GPS Gal: How important is it to you that you enjoy your job or career in the future? Did you consider this when you made this choice?
Jessica: I once read a book called "Fire Your Boss". While I liked some of the tips, the book told me to hate my job because I would eventually have to quit or be fired anyway. I didn't like the philosophy. I know that sometimes I'll have to take some time to LEARN to love my job, but I want to feel comfortable in my work instead of feeling like a sellout.
GPS Gal: How did you choose your college? What 5 elements were the most important to you?
Jessica: 1. Money- I was accepted into a good school and even got a bit of a scholarship, but I still couldn't afford it. Don't bash community colleges- they're great for people short on money and often provide many of the resources that universities have. 2. Distance- Seriously, why waste time and gas money to go somewhere far away when you can enjoy local comforts? 3. Opportunities- I don't recommend schools that only have two or three majors because you will probably change your mind sometime during college. Keep your options open. 4. Resources- My college in connected to a nearby university (both schools even share one of the buildings), which makes transferring easy. Things like tutoring centers, computer labs, and easy-to-reach advisors are also important to me. I guess I can think of a 5th element, but if you come up with your own element, it should be something that is meaningful to you!
GPS Gal: Do you have any piece of advice for girls in high school who are preparing to go to college about their educational or career choices?
Jessica: Keep your feet on the ground (i.e. only go to a school where you can eventually pay off the tuition and don't major in something where there is no future) but dream big. You can take others' advice, but ultimately you don't have to listen to anyone else. Go after your own goals, one step at a time.
GPS Gal: Do you have a mission (sense of purpose) for you life? If you could put it into a mission statement what would it be?
Jessica: I always say I have a mission, but I can't really put it into words. I'm a Christian, so "serve God" is the preamble of my mission, but what I do beyond that always changes. In one chapter of my life, it may mean to study hard and get good grades. In another chapter, it may mean to reach out to those in need.
GPS Gal: Thank you, Jessica. We wish you all the best in your travels and hope that you find many wonderful things to write about!
If you have a question about this interview or would like to learn more about this field of study, you can forward your questions to the GPS Gal. Click these links if you would like to learn more about a gap year or how to find a gap year scholarship.
Thursday, February 10, 2011 at 7:45PM
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