As a parent, I know how overwhelming it can be to help your teen choose the right career path, especially in today’s rapidly changing world. After discussing this topic with two different AIs and reflecting on my own experiences, I’ve put together a series of guided questions to make this process clearer and less daunting. These questions are designed to spark meaningful conversations, whether it’s between you and your teen, or even for teens to discuss with their classmates and friends. The goal is to explore interests, talents, future job trends, and university options, all while considering the possibility of a gap year. This guide is meant to provide structure and clarity as you navigate this important decision-making journey together.

I hope it will help you as much as it helped us.

Dr Bela

Questions and considerations for my daughter’s (17) career choice

Ikigai (Finding Purpose)

– What activities or subjects genuinely make you excited or give you energy?

– What are the skills or talents that people often recognize in you?

– What problems or needs in the world interest you the most? How do you think you can contribute to solving them?

– Are there career paths or industries where you think your strengths and passions overlap with what people need?

– How do you imagine your ideal work-life balance in 10 or 20 years?

Self-reflection

• What aspects of biology, chemistry, and psychology do you find most interesting?
• Which subjects do you excel in naturally?
• What kind of work environment do you envision for yourself in the future?
• Are there any particular societal issues or challenges you’re passionate about addressing?

Skills and strengths

• What skills have you developed through your A-level studies?
• Are there any extracurricular activities or hobbies that have shaped your interests?
• What do you consider to be your greatest strengths?

Learning from your parent’s choices

– What conclusions can you draw from your parent’s career choices?
– Are they happy in their careers?
– If they are happy, what makes them happy?
– If they are not happy, what makes them not happy?
– What can you learn from it, and how can you use this experience to choose your career?

 Technological Developments & Future Trends

– How do you think advancements in technology (robotics, automation, AI) will shape the job market by the time you graduate?

– What professions or skill sets do you think will become more relevant? Are there any that you think might become obsolete?

– How comfortable are you with learning and adapting to new technologies, even if it’s outside of your current interests?

– Are there any emerging fields in science or technology that excite you?

 Understanding Your Interests

– What subjects do you enjoy the most right now, and why?

– Is there a particular topic in biology or biochemistry that excites you? Can you see yourself studying this for the next 3-4 years?

– Have you explored any other areas (like psychology or chemistry) that may offer different career paths?

 University Selection

– Do you want to study a broad subject first (like biology or biochemistry) and specialize later, or do you want a more focused course from the start?

– What are the most important factors for you in choosing a university (location, course content, campus life, reputation)?

– Have you researched specific universities in London? What are their strengths and weaknesses in the subjects you’re considering?

– How important is practical experience (like internships, labs, or research projects) in the courses you’re considering?

The Guardian University Guide 2025 

Gap Year Consideration

– What do you hope to gain from a gap year if you take one? (Personal growth, work experience, travel, or figuring out career interests?)

– Do you feel like you need more time to make a decision about your future, or would you prefer to keep momentum by starting university immediately?

– Are there gap year opportunities (volunteering, internships, travel) that align with your current interests?

– How might a gap year help you get clarity on your future career or study path?

Potential Benefits of a Gap Year

– Increased maturity, confidence, and independence

– Mental break after the rigors of high school

– Opportunity to gain relevant skills and experiences

– Better academic performance and career satisfaction later on

– Time for self-exploration and personal growth

 Potential Drawbacks

– Concern about losing academic momentum

– Possible financial costs

– Risk of an unstructured year not adding value

Factors to Consider

Student Readiness: Assess if your daughter feels prepared for college or could benefit from more time to mature and gain life experience

Clear Plans: Ensure there’s a structured plan for the gap year, whether it involves work, volunteering, learning a new skill, or travel

Academic Impact: Consider how a gap year might affect your daughter’s academic trajectory and motivation to return to studies

Financial Considerations: Evaluate the costs associated with gap year activities and how they compare to immediate college enrollment

Making the Decision on the gap year

1. Discuss the idea openly with your daughter, considering her goals and concerns
2. Research gap year programs or opportunities that align with her interests
3. Consider talking to college admissions offices about deferment policies
4. Weigh the potential benefits against any risks or drawbacks for your specific situation.

 Making the Decision

– What criteria will be most important for you in deciding on a course and career path (personal interest, salary, job security, societal impact)?

– Are you open to exploring different career paths, or do you feel pressured to make a decision soon?

– How can you get more information or clarity about specific careers? Would shadowing professionals or internships help?

Next Steps

– What actions can you take in the next few months to get clarity? (e.g., talking to professionals, exploring internships, attending university open days)

– How will you know when you’ve made the right decision? Is there a certain feeling or outcome you’re looking for?

– Are there any deadlines (for applications or gap year planning) that you need to keep in mind?

If you, dear reader, can add any further questions or considerations, please leave a comment or get in touch with me at info@drbela.clinic