I understand. It is frightening to consider what type of career you will have in high school, especially with everyone reminding you that in the future half of your career options won't even exist. But guess what? That's actually a good thing.
I bet you're thinking that getting asked "What do you want to do with your life?" by an adult gives you that horrible knot in your stomach. Well guess what? You're not the only one who feels completely lost. Statistics show that more than 40% of high school students feel they have no career plan, and one in three has no knowledge of what careers might suit them. I get it, feeling nervous is normal, and even better, it can be managed.
As you sit and think about college majors, and what you are going to do in your life, entire industries are being invented today for the first time. And those are the kids who know this. They are going to be ahead of the pack. Rather than just stumbling into the unknown, you can actually begin to come out. So, here are the 10 careers you need to know about:
1. Machine Learning and AI Specialist
AI revolutionizes everything from medicine to finance. Companies desperately need people who know how to develop algorithms, train machine learning algorithms, and develop automation systems.
What you'd actually be working on:
Develop AI systems that solve real-world problems
Program computers to learn and make decisions
Develop ethical standards for AI usage
Skills to start building now:
Be highly skilled in mathematics and statistics
Python programming learn
Master foundational data science
Your total compensation: $75,000-$100,000 starting, $130,000+ as experience accumulates
2. Cybersecurity Analyst
With all things going digital, cyber attacks get more sophisticated. These professionals protect our information and digital infrastructure.
What you'd actually be working on:
Watch over networks for security risks
Enforce security controls
Test systems for vulnerabilities
React to cyber incidents
Skills to start working on immediately:
Understand how computer networks operate
Understand security protocols
Use critical thinking
What you'll be generating: $70,000-$100,000 starting, $120,000+ experienced
3. Sustainability and Green Energy Specialist
Global warming is creating new career prospects. Companies need experts who will reduce the impact on the environment and bring ecologically friendly technologies.
What you'd actually be working on:
Assess the environmental effects of business decisions
Develop renewable energy projects
Implement sustainability programs
Compare carbon footprints
Skills to work on right away:
Solid grounding in environmental science
Learn about renewable energy technologies
Learn data analysis skills
What you'll make: $45,000-$85,000 per year, $100,000+ in high-end roles
4. Big Data Specialist
All businesses are swimming in data but must have individuals on board to be able to interpret it all and make it useful information.
What you would actually do:
Process big data into business intelligence
Create data visualizations
Build forecast models
Encourage data-based decision making
What needs to be done now:
Learn about mathematics and statistics
Learn programming (Python, SQL)
Gather experience using data visualization software
What you'll be generating: $55,000-$75,000 starting, $90,000-$140,000+ experienced
5. Fintech Engineer
The financial world is going digital, and fintech engineers build the secure financial apps and payment systems we all rely on.
What you would actually do:
Develop financial programs and apps
Work on blockchain and cryptocurrency
Establish secure payment systems
Develop electronic banking solutions
Skills to start building now:
Learn to create software and programming
Understand financial systems
Understand cybersecurity basics
What you'll create: $65,000-$110,000 starting, $130,000-$180,000+ as a senior-level employee
6. Metaverse and Virtual Reality Developer
Firms such as Meta, Microsoft, and Nike are investing billions of dollars in VR/AR technology and require a person who can create virtual worlds.
The things you would actually do:
Build virtual experiences and worlds
Develop VR and AR applications
Create 3D models and experiential content
Competencies to start building today:
Master 3D modeling and design
Get used to programming (C#, Unity)
Learn UI/UX design fundamentals
What you'll make: $60,000-$85,000 starting, $100,000-$150,000+ experienced
7. Quantum Computing Specialist
Quantum computing can solve problems regular computers never could, with applications in healthcare, finance, and energy.
What you would actually do:
Design quantum algorithms
Engage with quantum hardware
Conduct quantum studies
Apply quantum computing to address real-world problems
Skills to start practicing now:
Establish solid physics and advanced mathematics background
Learn quantum mechanics
Study programming, particularly Python
What you'll make: $80,000-$120,000 to start, $150,000-$200,000+ with experience (advanced degrees necessary)
8. Biotechnology and Gene Therapy Specialist
The biotech industry is thriving and gene therapy is reinventing disease treatment.
What you would actually do:
Develop and test gene therapies
Do genetic research
Create customized medicine regimens
Work in conjunction with gene-editing technologies like CRISPR
Things to learn right away:
Excel in chemistry and biology
Learn molecular biology and genetics
Gain laboratory research skills
What you'll be generating: $50,000-$80,000 starting, $90,000-$150,000+ as lead researcher
9. Healthcare Technology Specialist
We require experts who can communicate between technology and medicine because populations are aging and care is increasingly digital.
What you would actually do:
Install medical software systems
Maintain electronic health records
Create telemedicine platforms
Guarantee healthcare data security
Skills to start building now:
Research on health systems
Acquire IT skills
Master medical terminology
What you'll build: $45,000-$70,000 starting, $75,000-$120,000+ experienced
10. Digital Marketing and E-commerce Specialist
Digital advertising is getting more advanced with the help of AI and data analytics, offering creative professionals new opportunities.
What you would actually do:
Develop digital marketing plans
Oversee social media campaigns
Optimize online shops
Monitor customer behavior and data
In order to start building today:
Master digital marketing tools
Practice data analysis
Learn content creation methods
What you'll be making: $40,000-$65,000 starting, $75,000-$110,000+ at the senior level
If you are a high school student pushing yourself to stand out in college applications, RISE Research offers a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with mentors from top universities around the world.
Through personalized guidance and independent research projects that can lead to prestigious publications, RISE Research helps you build a standout academic profile and develop skills that set you apart. With flexible program dates and global accessibility, ambitious students can apply year-round. To learn more about eligibility, costs, and how to get started, visit RISE Research’s official website and take your college preparation to the next level!
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