Full Careers - Anybody else have problems taking career assessment tests?

Anybody else have problems taking career assessment tests?

I think I may be going crazy. I graduated in May with a degree in Social Work, but I am not sure if I want to work in that field. I have been applying for jobs in that field, but I haven't had any luck. I have been thinking of going back to school to major in something else, the only problem is I can't figure what I should major in. It seems like I am constantly changing my mind. Some of the things I have considered are teaching political science, becoming a lawyer, and now I am thinking of becoming a pharmacist. I probably should take a career assessment test, but I have problems with them because I think I lie on them. I don't do it on purpose, but I often answer questions based on the person I think I would like to be rather than who I actually am. I think that's how social work popped up as a result. Actually I do not really know myself at all even though I am constantly trying to figure it out. Anyone else struggle with this. Anyone have any suggestions?

Public Comments

It's really normal to get confused at times. However, career assessment test best serve its purpose if you try to be honest with your answers. Think through the questions first before giving an answer. Look back at the past and find out it certain things really gave you satisfaction. Career assessment test is really a good tool to help you be back on track, take advantage of it.
A few thoughts: 1) if you have a BA degree - DON'T go back for another major - go on for an MA 2) You might want to work with a life coach - someone who can work with the "people pleasing tendency that might make testing ineffective for you.. 3) You might look at doing an MSW in the area of policy and/or a joint MSW/JD degree. 4) It may not be that you are confused about your career but rather have not developed the depth of knowledge you really need to practice in the way you want. Political Science and Law are related directly to social work, but you will really need an advanced degree to practice in that area. With a BA you will not have the external credibility. There are some great programs out there. You might look specifically at Catholic University in DC they have an MSW with a social justice concentration and a joint JD degree - http://ncsss.cua.edu/degree_field/msw/ DA
perhaps it's the test? People swear by this one http://gsx1.com/freeaptitest.htm hope it helps, good luck!
I know you feel like you're going crazy, but believe me, it is not that unusual to question the career we choose. It might make you feel better to know that most people who graduate college don't go into the same field they studied. You are definitely not alone. I am the EXACT same way. It wasn't until I started taking a hard look at myself, that I began to develop a purpose and direction. A couple of points about the things you mentioned: 1) I don't think a career test is the answer. They are very dependent on the accuracy of your answers, and still provide very broad career categories. Instead, take the time to get to know yourself. 2) More school would be great if you knew that's the career path you wanted. But since you're unsure, becoming more specialized in a field is a bad thing since it limits you so much. In addition to self-assessment I would invest in books and websites related to finding your ideal career. Later you can read books and websites about the career(s) you are considering. --A couple of books I highly recommend are Dan Miller's - 48 Days to the Work You Love and Richard Nelson Bolles - What Color is Your Parachute. Until you pick those up, here are a few areas in which to examine yourself. 1)Personality - Do you enjoy being around people or would you rather work independently on a project? Do you embrace adventure or resist change? Are you more creative or logical and factual? 2)Skills - What skills have you developed? Computers, writing, counseling, sales, marketing, designing? Come up with the top 10-20 things you feel confident doing. 3)Dreams & Passions - What do you value and dream about? What do you naturally enjoy doing (hobbies etc)? What books and magazines do you enjoy? These are just the tip of the iceberg, but you've taken a great first step by asking advice! Feel free to contact me if I can be of any further assistance.