Here's a breakdown to help you think about it:
Things you can do in high school:
* Explore your interests: Take diverse classes, join clubs, volunteer in areas that interest you. This helps you identify passions and skills.
* Research careers: Look into careers related to your interests. Talk to people working in those fields (informational interviews are invaluable!).
* Develop skills: Focus on strong academics, but also consider skills like coding, writing, public speaking, or teamwork, depending on your career goals.
* Start thinking about college: Research colleges that offer programs aligned with your potential career paths. Don't feel pressured to know *exactly* what you want to major in – many colleges offer exploratory programs or allow you to switch majors.
* Talk to guidance counselors: They are a great resource for advice on college applications, career exploration, and testing.
Things you can do in college:
* Explore different majors: College gives you the opportunity to take a variety of courses and discover what you truly enjoy.
* Internships and extracurriculars: Gain real-world experience and network with professionals.
* Career counseling: College career centers offer guidance and resources to help you explore career options and develop your job search skills.
* Change your major: It's perfectly acceptable (and common!) to change your major if you find something else that better suits your interests and goals.
You are NOT running out of time. High school is about exploration and preparation, not definitive decision-making. College is a significant phase of exploration and skill-building. Many successful people didn't have a clear career path in high school. Focus on developing yourself academically and personally, exploring your options, and making informed choices along the way. The pressure to have it all figured out is often self-imposed; let yourself learn and grow through the process.