My son is only in sixth grade, but he’s deeply embroiled in the “what to do when I grow up” debate. It’s no surprise to us that the boy who devours biographies of world leaders, prefers History Channel documentaries to cartoons and owns thousands of historically accurate tin soldiers is leaning toward studying military history or archeology.
We want him to excel in a field that he loves. We want him to be able to find a job that fuels his passion, not just his checkbook. But, he also is going to have to buy his own food someday. And I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t concerned about how many history buffs the economy really has jobs waiting for.
So, quietly, I have been checking out the job market for history buffs like my son. So far, it’s not exactly pretty.
Which led me to another search, what should students be studying to secure their place in the workforce? Where exactly are the jobs?
U.S. News and World Report has ranked the 100 best jobs based on hiring demand, potential growth in demand over the next 10 years, salary, stress level and work-life balance.
Sadly, historian is nowhere on that list. But a lot of other jobs are. Including house painter at number 100 and software developer at number 1. In between there are a lot of jobs, including a majority in the healthcare and engineering fields.
So, are you walking through those classroom doors next month with undecided checked next to your major? You may want to check this list out. It may help you find the perfect job that gives you, and kids like my son, plenty of time to tend to your hobbies and earn a paycheck.