I Spoke At Toronto Metropolitan University's "Land Your Dream Job" Seminar
I was recently invited to be a panelist for Toronto Metropolitan University's "Land Your Dream Job" seminar for biomedical science students. I got to connect with many students & it brought back fond memories of my undergraduate years.
Below are 3 insights I shared about choosing the right career:
1) Do NOT Fixate On Specific Jobs (Doctors, Lawyers, etc)
As a science student, it can feel like becoming a healthcare professional is the only option. Being a professional comes with prestige, respect, and financial security. Yet, I know of many doctors who are unhappy with their careers (I was one of them!).
Is the ultimate goal just a fancy job title or is it lasting work satisfaction and happiness?
Numerous research has found that specific jobs don't correlate with job satisfaction – there are happy janitors and unhappy lawyers.
So what does lead to job happiness? Studies suggest it's how well you can "integrate" work and life. Here are some examples:
- Creating a work environment you love
- Building a portfolio career
- Aligning your work with personal values
- Finding a sense of purpose
- Fostering good connections with coworkers
Your work and life shouldn't feel like completely separate entities. Subscribe to stay in the loop for a future article on this.
2) Do NOT Follow Your Passion
During a Q&A, one student said:
"Some of my peers have found their calling, but I don't know what I want to do. I feel lost."
I responded:
"When I was a student, I didn't have a calling or a burning passion either. And that's okay. Passion isn't necessary to find your dream job – in fact, passion often comes later in your career."
On a pragmatic level, the job market operates on supply and demand. Employers reward (through better salary, autonomy, flexible hours, etc.) those who offer exceptional skills. In contrast, being average will get you similarly common jobs – regardless of how much passion you have!
3) Choose a Career That Aligns With Your Strengths
Students want to know how they can "land" their dream job right after graduation. Unfortunately, dream jobs don't happen overnight. You have to dedicate enough time to improve your skills, gain valuable experience, and grow your professional network.
Finding your dream job goes more like this:
1️⃣ Identify a career path that aligns with your strengths
2️⃣ Earn the required degree and start working
3️⃣ Keep investing in your growth to become exceptional in your field
4️⃣ Attract better job opportunities – eventually landing your dream job
Thank You to the Organizers!
A huge shoutout to Paniz and the event organizers for putting together such a well-structured and engaging seminar.
Thanks for the invitation & I look forward to your future events!
Do you feel like there's a big gap between your ideal and current life? That's how I felt for years until I took action. Since leaving my full-time job, I've built a career I feel deeply passionate about, made more time for my loved ones, and began pursuing passion projects (like this blog!).
I created a practical guide filled with actionable, research-backed ideas to help you build the life you want – many of which helped me on my own journey.
The guide is free for members—and signing up is free! Join now to get your copy.
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