Just wondering what those on Hexus (as I know you lot come from all walks of life) could offer in regards advice/insights into possible careers ahead.
Basically my trouble is this, I get far too easily lured by the prospects of big £ signs, and often don't see the possible side effects (ie very long hours, few holidays etc).
I'm currently studying Modern History & Politics, and according to most, (bearing in mind this is my first year) on target for a 2:1, possibly higher if I put my backside into gear. I would class myself as a reasonably enthusiastic guy, with the ability to learn new skills pretty rapidly, and the ability to commit myself to the long term. The question is, where do I go from my degree...
Two options seem to have presented themselves, one being a career in the legal profession (probably a Solicitor, as I don't have the confidence and public speaking abilities required to be a (good) barrister), the other a career in finance (Investment Banking, Equities, Fixed Incomes). Both would probably entail working in London (which I don't mind, and could conceivably enjoy), and both would entail long hours, at least in the first years. Having read the the info available to me (admittedly I haven't had a careers interview), it seems a History degree would allow me to go anywhere, but some areas would need additional training (eg Medical Profession, or even Law - I would have to do an extra years study and then a conversion course).
I'm currently applying to spend some time on an internship with Credit Suisse amongst others, and have spent time with Lawyers in the past, but I haven't got anything to compare it with (apart from the repetitive tasks of my time as a lowly IT tech - mainly rebuilding PCs with restore disks, a monkey could do that).
Which brings me on to my next question. I have skills in IT which I probably wouldn't use. The problem is, to earn the big money you have to be bloody good, which, unfortunately, I'm not. I'm good with the hardware and networking side, but software (where the money can be) I can't write for rubbish. Admittedly give me Windows Server and I can configure it, XP and I can set it up, which seems impressive to some, but not to those who I'd need to impress. I'd be willing to learn, but having spoken to a mate who left Bristol Uni with a First in Computer Science, specialising in web design & mobile applets, I'd be stuffed as I have no experience, the same hurdle he has.
So that leaves me back at the door of the professions where everyone (in theory at least) starts on a level playing field. Without sounding too much like I'm reciting the 'Great American Dream' it seems to be the most meritocratic system, where if you make money you are a success, if you don't, you are out on your backside. This, primarily is the Financial sector, though it equally applies to Law. The other thing is how long until I'm actually working - Law would require a further 2 years - and whether the potential rewards are worth it.
So, and I apologise for my ramblings, this is why I need suggestions, what professions I should look into, and if anyone has similar experiences, what advice they would offer (what they would do differently, for instance).
Dave


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