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Question
I am trying to decide between two different career paths, one in air traffic controlling and the other in sociology. Obviously, these would require very different educational backgrounds. Which would be a better college major to prepare me for a successful career?
Answer
Wow--those are two very distinct paths! I happen to know that a major hiring initiative is underway for air traffic controllers, as that profession faces a major replacement cycle in the years ahead. So, if your primary motivation is to have a strong chance of finding a job, becoming an air traffic controller could be a good choice.
On the other hand, you need to be prepared for the fact that being an air traffic controller is a very high-stress job. Also, certain physical and security criteria are used as employment screens in that profession. Therefore, I suggest you research those screens before you commit to a course of study, to make sure there isn't anything that would exclude you from this career.
In contrast, sociology is a very broad field, which can be both good and bad. On the downside, a degree in sociology offers no specific, defined career path. On the upside, however, sociology degrees offer a broad base of knowledge, which can lead to more opportunities for you to find your niche.
Ultimately, these career paths are so different that you need to think seriously about what kind of work you like to do. If you have not done so already, seek out an internship or a part-time job in one of these fields to see what kind of work environment fit you the best.
On the other hand, you need to be prepared for the fact that being an air traffic controller is a very high-stress job. Also, certain physical and security criteria are used as employment screens in that profession. Therefore, I suggest you research those screens before you commit to a course of study, to make sure there isn't anything that would exclude you from this career.
In contrast, sociology is a very broad field, which can be both good and bad. On the downside, a degree in sociology offers no specific, defined career path. On the upside, however, sociology degrees offer a broad base of knowledge, which can lead to more opportunities for you to find your niche.
Ultimately, these career paths are so different that you need to think seriously about what kind of work you like to do. If you have not done so already, seek out an internship or a part-time job in one of these fields to see what kind of work environment fit you the best.
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