"Why you will fail to have a great career."

TEDx University of Waterloo
Larry Smith, Professor of economics

This speech touched on a similar topic that I've been questioning for several months: "What happened to all the possible careers that I was interested in since childhood?" "Why is there only a few career choices left because of my major?"

Ever since I began my studies in the university, I've came to a realization that the range of possible career options, after the graduation, are quiet smaller than I previously thought. At the same time, I have also lost the confidence that I'll be able to become whoever I want to be- as long as I want to be. Not only this sudden realization made me desperate to search for the right interest, but also made me question whether I am studying the things that I am passionate of.

I don't know. I've been stressing myself with these questions for so long I cannot recall. However, the exploration for the answer hasn't always been so great- and according to this video, it's not going to be easy in the future either. But one thing is clear that- I want to have a great career, regardless of what/where it is. I want to have a life with a work that drives me to get up in the morning.

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My mom always told me that her career ended early because of my birth- and this fact always made me irritated. However, this video gave a good, possible explanation for my mom's state of mind behind that particular statement.

After my graduation last summer, she returned to South Korea. Then earlier this year, she texted me so that she could tell me about a good news: her new job with a consumer rights NGO; a job that I believe fits her character, interest, and B.A. in Sociology.

There was certainly a big gap in her career because of me, at least according to her. During the blank period between her old job and new job, I have come from a kindergartener to a university student. I can't thank her enough for all the care and protection she has given me. But her return to the work force -taking an initiative after the long absence- is something I would salute her for.