Find some Vocational guidance through a hands-on experience

Before I enrolled myself in a community college, I had to do some self-exploration for possible careers I may want to do. One day, I received a schedule of classes brochure from the Regional occupational Program (ROP). [Note: the ROP is a local program that is usually provided by the county you live in. Even if your local community does not have ROP, you should be able to find similar programs.] This brochure had a wide range of class offerings from how to use computer programs and dance classes to more advanced level computer programming classes.

One class that caught my attention was entitled "Financial Sales and Services" (FSS). This particular class teaches students the skill set they need in order to become a bank teller. Back then, I had some interest in possibly getting a business/financial degree and so I enrolled in the class. One of the requirements for the class is to intern at a local bank while you attend class once/twice a week.

The class was fun and very informative. I greatly enjoyed the hands-on experience that I received from both the class and the internship. After being an intern for about 2 months, the bank manager asked me if I wanted to apply as a bank teller in the branch. I still had to go through the hiring process but, ultimately, I got hired because the management already knew me. I worked at the bank for about 4 months until it was time for me to go to community college.

Overall, the experience was great but I did not find my 'calling.' However, I probably wouldn't realize that financial services is not for me if I didn't take the class. By knowing this, I did not pursue a major in a business related field even though banking is only a small part of it. I have not completely let go of the idea of being in 'business' because I do realize that there are many career possibilities out there even after I finished my first bachelor's degree. However, I am happy with my career choice for now. Whether I decide to change careers or get an advanced degree in my current field, I know that all my efforts won't go to waste since I always get something back in return.

If you decide to take this route, make sure you have some interest in the class that you choose. This initial interest may later develop into a full-blown career commitment or later die out because you realized that it is not the right track for you. If the second situation applies to you, remember that every experience counts. You may not find the career of your dreams but the skills and knowledge you developed from an experience (especially those with internships) stays with you.