A choice of profession needn’t be a life sentence. Martha McLean, Esq. has chosen two (so far). She found her first profession as many teachers do: a favorite subject became a career.

“I learned Spanish at school. I had a knack for the language. I had a Spanish teacher that I really liked in high school… I did my junior year abroad in Seville, Spain…” Martha volunteered in Guatemala, working and learning. When she returned to the US and needed a job, “it made sense to do something related to Spanish…” A teaching certification from USM, a career. “I liked Spanish language and culture so I found a way to make them part of my life.”

Martha’s second profession began with a more deliberate choice. “I imagined myself as a doctor, psychologist, counselor, lawyer, etc… I didn’t know many lawyers, but for some reason being a lawyer appealed to me.” An aptitude test is an imperfect filter but may tell you whether you and a profession suit each other. Martha passed the LSAT, went to law school, passed the bar exam, became an attorney. She’s pleased: “I have my own law practice and I’m happy I made a change. I enjoy helping people, and I love being my own boss.”

Martha reflects on her career(s) preparation. High school meant “that Spanish teacher who believed in me. I had lots of other teachers who believed in me… My parents also had very high expectations. All of that instilled a sense of discipline and a good work ethic.”

“In college, I learned how to work independently. And the classes were challenging, so I had to work hard.” Other experiences paid off. “I was an Outward Bound instructor for a few years, and that taught me that I was capable of much more than I realized. Those courses are challenging for the instructors, not just the students…”

“Law school and the bar exam were super challenging. But my discipline paid off. It also helped me that I went to law school as an adult, because I kept everything in perspective.”

As with all our views of career preparation, accidental or deliberate, there’s a lot here for students. Something, as well, for teachers and families.

David R Jones has probably left his run at another career too late.