an essay about what you want to be in future

What do you want to become in the future? 7 Sample Answers

Have you ever asked yourself what you wanted to be when you grew up? Everyone has a vision of something they want to accomplish, whether it’s becoming a doctor, starting their own business, or traveling the world. What do you want to become in the future? Knowing your future goals can help you make decisions now that will help you reach those goals. Think about what inspires and motivates you, and let that guide you toward your dreams!

You might have often asked your life, “What do you want to become in the future?” Sometimes you face this question in job interviews. As a job seeker, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your career goals and aspirations to impress potential employers. Knowing what you want to become in the future showcases your ambition and motivation and demonstrates your preparedness and suitability for the role.

In this article, we’ll delve into the various steps and considerations for discovering your future career path so that you can confidently answer this interview question and take the first step toward your dream job.

Table of Contents

How to discover your future career path

Understanding yourself.

This involves taking the time to reflect on your interests, strengths, values, and skills. Understanding what motivates and drives you can help you make informed decisions about your future career.

Researching Your Options

This involves exploring different industries, job roles, and companies to determine which career paths align with your interests and goals. Researching the job market and staying current with industry trends can help you make informed decisions.

Creating a Career Plan

This involves setting achievable and realistic goals for your future career and outlining the steps you need to take to reach those goals. This can include developing skills, gaining experience, and networking with professionals in your desired field. A well-crafted career plan can help you stay focused and motivated as you work towards your future career aspirations.

How to Answer the Interview question “What do you want to become in the future?”

When answering the interview question, “What do you want to become in the future?” it’s important to be concise and to the point while also showcasing your ambition and passion for your chosen career path. A good answer might follow this structure:

• State your career goal clearly and concisely, for example, “My long-term goal is to become a marketing manager.”
• Explain why you want to pursue this career; for example, “I have a passion for marketing, and I am driven by the challenge of developing and executing successful campaigns.”
• Discuss your relevant experience and qualifications; for example, “I have a strong background in marketing research and analysis, as well as experience in project management. I plan further to develop my data analysis and digital marketing skills.”
• Mention your plans for achieving your career goal, for example, “I am actively seeking opportunities to gain experience and learn from experienced professionals, and I believe that this role aligns with my long-term career aspirations.”
• Conclude by reiterating your commitment to your future career: “I am confident in my ability to achieve my long-term career goals, and I am eager to bring my passion and expertise to this role.”

Basic Structure

• Introduction
• Long-Term Goals
• Skills and Qualifications
• Industry or Company
• Relevance to the Role

Sample answers to “What do you want to become in the future?”

• “In the future, I see myself as a senior project manager, leading cross-functional teams and delivering successful projects for a top technology company. I am committed to continuously developing my leadership and organizational skills, and I believe this role will provide the opportunities for growth and challenge that I seek.”
• “I aspire to be a Chief Financial Officer for a fast-growing company in the next 5-10 years. I am driven by the opportunity to lead a finance team and help shape a company’s financial strategy while contributing to the organization’s overall success.”
• “My long-term goal is to become a successful entrepreneur and launch my business in the creative industry. I have a passion for design and innovation and am eager to bring my ideas to life while positively impacting society.”
• “In the future, I hope to be a respected educator and mentor, sharing my passion for science and technology with the next generation of students. I am committed to staying current with my field’s latest developments and providing hands-on learning experiences for my students.”
• “I want to become a human resources leader, using my passion for people and my expertise in employee relations to help organizations attract and retain top talent. I am committed to promoting a positive workplace culture and ensuring that employees are supported and valued. I believe that this role will allow me to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”
• “I am currently working as a marketing coordinator and have gained valuable experience in the field. My long-term goal is to become a marketing manager, and I am confident that the skills and experience I have gained will allow me to achieve this goal.”
• “I am interested in working for a technology company, as I am fascinated by the innovative products and services that these companies offer. I am eager to contribute to a company that positively impacts society and is at the forefront of technological advancements.”

In conclusion, answering the question, “What do you want to become in the future?” can be a valuable opportunity to showcase your career aspirations and demonstrate your motivation and commitment to your chosen field. By taking the time to understand yourself, research your options, and create a career plan, you can craft a clear and concise answer that will leave a lasting impression on the interviewer. Ultimately, being honest and passionate about your future career goals can set you apart as a candidate and increase your chances of landing the job.

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Essay on My Future Goals In Life

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Future Goals In Life in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Future Goals In Life

My educational goals.

I aim to finish school with good grades. This means working hard and studying well. I want to understand what I am taught, not just remember it for exams. Learning should be fun, and I plan to enjoy finding out new things.

My Career Ambition

After school, I wish to have a job that I love. I am not sure what it will be yet, but I want to help people and make a difference. It’s important to me that my work feels meaningful.

Personal Development

I also plan to keep improving myself. I want to be kind, patient, and a good friend. Reading books, playing sports, and traveling will help me grow. I will strive to be healthy and happy.

Community Service

Lastly, I hope to give back to my community. Volunteering at local places like libraries or shelters is something I look forward to. I believe even small actions can make a big impact.

250 Words Essay on My Future Goals In Life

My dream job, helping my community.

Another important goal for my future is to help my community. I want to do things like clean up parks and help people who do not have homes or enough food. It feels good to help others, and I want to do my part to make my town a better place for everyone.

Staying Healthy

Staying healthy is also a big goal for me. I plan to eat healthy foods like fruits and vegetables and to exercise by playing sports or going for runs. Being healthy will help me have the energy to reach my other goals.

Learning Every Day

My last goal is to keep learning new things all my life. I want to read lots of books and maybe even travel to different countries to learn about other cultures. The world is full of interesting things, and I want to know as much as I can.

In conclusion, my future goals are to become a teacher, help my community, stay healthy, and keep learning. These goals will make me happy and will be good for the people around me too.

500 Words Essay on My Future Goals In Life

Introduction to my future goals.

Everyone has dreams about what they want to do in the future. I am no different. I have many goals that I want to reach as I grow up. These goals help me stay focused and work hard. In this essay, I will share some of my future goals in life.

Education Goals

Career goals.

After finishing college, I want to have a job that I love. I am not sure what job that will be yet, but I know I want it to be something that makes me happy and helps other people. Maybe I will be a teacher, a doctor, or an engineer. No matter what, I want to work hard and be good at what I do. I also want to keep learning new things even when I am working. This will help me do my job better.

Health and Fitness Goals

Being healthy is also one of my goals. I want to eat healthy foods and exercise regularly. Playing sports, going for walks, and riding my bike are fun ways to stay fit. Being healthy will help me have the energy to reach my other goals. I also want to learn how to cook healthy meals. This way, I can take care of my body and feel good every day.

Personal Goals

Travel goals.

I love to see new places and learn about different cultures. So, one of my goals is to travel. I don’t need to go far. Even exploring new places in my own country is exciting. Traveling helps me understand the world better and meet new people.

Conclusion: Staying Positive and Working Hard

To reach all these goals, I know I need to stay positive and work hard. Sometimes things might be tough, but I will keep trying. I will also ask for help when I need it. Teachers, family, and friends can all help me stay on track. I am excited for the future and all the things I will learn and do. These goals are like a map for my life, and I am ready to follow it.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

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How to Write an Awesome Essay About Your Career Goals

• Before you begin, ask yourself a few key questions like:
• What are my short-term and long-term career goals?
• Where do I see myself in ten years?
• What events in my life have led me to have these goals?
• What major will help me reach my goals?
• What skills do I need to reach my goals?
• What impact do I want to have on society?

Career Goals Essay Template

Need more inspiration.

After you brainstorm the responses to these questions, look for common themes, or pick out the most interesting stories. You can build your main essay “thesis” or idea around this.

Once you’ve got the main idea, create an outline to put your ideas into essay format. This will give you a general idea of structure.

You can use the career essays template below to give you some ideas. But remember that some rules are meant to be broken, so don’t be afraid to be innovative and think outside the box!

Also, when you’re done, head over to Going Merry to apply for the Career Goals scholarship essay bundle (one essay, one application, multiple scholarships!). You might as well make that essay count. Sign up for Going Merry to apply for scholarships more efficiently.

Here’s a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown:

Paragraph 1 : Establish the main theme of what you’re going to talk about. It should also grab the reader’s attention. For example, instead of starting your essay with something generic (e.g. Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to be a zoologist), get creative with it! Try something like My greatest memory as a young girl was going to the zoo for the first time or While most kids play house or school, I always wanted to play zookeeper.

Paragraph 2 : Elaborate on what inspired your career goals. Perhaps it was a relative, a TV show, or simply an experience that you had. Remember that old writing adage, “Show, don’t tell.” In other words, try to demonstrate your interest with story or description. 

Paragraph 3 : Discuss your short-term career goals and your intended major. How will your intended major help you reach these goals? What skills do you need to learn to reach them? At the end of the paragraph, try discussing how your short-term goals can help you achieve your long-term goals.

Paragraph 4 : Focus on your long-term goals and the impact that you hope to have on society. If you’re not sure what your long-term goals are, don’t sweat it; they’ll probably change anyways. You can instead focus on the difference you’d like to make overall. And don’t worry too much about the size of the impact…remember that just doing what you’re truly passionate about has a massive impact on those around you.

The last paragraph is your conclusion. You can use this paragraph to summarize what you discussed in the previous few paragraphs. If you want to be even more creative, try ending your essay with a question for your readers or a new insight. Good luck!

And now that you’re ready with that essay, put it to good use! You can recycle that same essay, when applying for the Career Goals Scholarship Bundle. We’ve joined together multiple scholarships (all requesting essays on career goals), into just ONE simple application! See more info here , or just sign up to get going.

Check out examples from other students just like you. Here are links to some great career goal essay examples:

• Example 1  
• Example 2  
• Example 3  

Or maybe you’re looking for help with an academic goals essay — we’ve got you covered there too.

Also, check out this helpful list of the 10 most common scholarship essay topics !

Sign up for Going Merry today, and upload your career goal essay right to your profile. It’s that easy!

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How to Write an Essay About Your Future Goals

What Is the Meaning of Educational Planning?

Explaining where you see your life in five,10 or even 20 years requires thought and planning. Writing an essay about your future goals helps you get a clear vision of what you want to accomplish. In order to clearly communicate your life plans, take time to identify your passions and interests before you begin writing. Doing so, will make structuring the essay a lot easier.

Select three specific goals you wish to accomplish within a certain time period. Explain in the introduction of your essay why you selected those goals and how they are related to one another. Provide a brief and general explanation of how you will accomplish your goals.

Write one to two paragraphs specifically explaining each goal. Describe the rationale for each goal and how the idea originated. Mention individuals and personal experiences that inspired you to set these goals. Discuss how far or close you are to reaching each goal.

Include facts and research information about what it will take to reach each goal. Research should include the steps you need to take in order to accomplish your goal. This research can be standard information acquired from documents. For example, if going to college is one of your future goals, identify which college and include information about admission requirements you must meet. Your research information can also be based on interviewing other people who have reached the goal for which you are presently striving.

Conclude your paper by restating your goals and why they are important to you.

Read your essay to a friend to make sure it's easy to understand. Review and proofread thoroughly if you are submitting your essay for a grade.

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Kai Ingram has over 15 years of experience as a professional writer. She writes on a wide range of topics related to entrepreneurship, international affairs and health and spirituality. She has written for various publications and websites such as the "Atlanta Tribune," The Ms. CEO show and "New Vision in Business" magazine. Ingram has a Bachelor of Arts in social policy and journalism.

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Career Goals Essay For Scholarships (With Examples)

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Find a Job You Really Want In

Scholarship programs often want you to write a career goals essay to see that you have a clear plan for how you’ll apply your education to a specific career path. This helps show a scholarship committee why you’re seeking funds for the next step on the path toward your success. Answering “what are your career goals” effectively can help increase your odds of impressing landing a scholarship opportunity. If you’re a prospective student applying for scholarships, this article will provide tips on how to write a career goals essay, along with essays on career goals examples to help you get an idea of what scholarship committees are looking for. Key Takeaways: When you’re writing a career goals essay, make sure to write about the goals that are relevant to the scholarship. Be honest and use your own voice to stand out in your scholarship essay. Go into detail about how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals. In This Article    Skip to section What is a career goals essay? Why scholarship essays ask about career goals Example career goals essay prompts Career goals essay examples Tips for writing a scholarship essay about career goals What to write in a career goals essay if your goals have changed Career goals essay for a scholarship FAQ References Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More What is a career goals essay?

A career goals essay is a personal written explanation that discusses your background, why you’re interested in participating in the program, and what career you’d like this degree to lead into. A scholarship essay functions to explain why you want to achieve your professional goals and how you intend to get there.

In almost every application process, a portion asks the candidate to answer an essay question. When applying to an educational program, like an MBA, the essay prompt usually relates to your career goals .

Why scholarship essays ask about career goals

Scholarship essays ask about career goals to assess your enthusiasm for the program, learn more about how the scholarship will help you, and ensure that you’ve considered how the program will help you achieve your goals for the future:

Assess your enthusiasm. Passion is important for scholarship administrators, and if you’re able to articulate your enthusiasm for a specific career path , it will show that you’re determined to meet the requirements to reach that goal. The most specific and well-thought-out your essay is, the easier it will be for a reader to understand your devotion and commitment to the program and the field it will allow you to enter.

Learn how the scholarship will help you. Having a firm grasp of your career goals is great, but it’s equally important that you express exactly how the specific program relates to those goals. This shows that you’ve researched the merits of the program and understand exactly how it fits into your professional goals.

Show you’ve considered your future. This goes along with the first two points — show that you know how to set goals and consider the path toward achieving those goals, and you’ll have an easier time convincing the reader that you’ll know how to set goals while participating in the program. They’ll see that you know how to prioritize education because you have a clear vision for navigating your career path.

Example career goals essay prompts

While some scholarships might come right out and simply ask, “What are your career goals?” most will rework the question into something different that still accomplishes the same goal.

Below are some examples of career goals essay prompts that a scholarship program could pose to its applicants:

Discuss your career goals. Many scholarships prefer the most direct approach when giving an essay prompt to their applicants. This type of question gives the candidate a lot of wiggle room to discuss their passions, motivations, and career goals.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years ? This question is often used as a prompt for a career goals essay because it gives the applicant a timeline to describe their aspirations. It forces them to be realistic about where their career will be and how they will accomplish this within the next ten years.

How will this scholarship contribute to your professional success? A scholarship committee wants to be sure that the money they’re giving will contribute to a student’s overall professional success. This question asks about the applicant’s game plan in the long-term and evaluates how this program is going to assist in their future.

What is your dream job ? Since a dream job is often categorized as a person’s career goals, this is a common question phrasing in scholarship essays. Asking about a candidate’s dream job answers whether this program aligns with the student’s long-term career goals.

What matters most to you and why? Sometimes, a scholarship essay prompt won’t ask about your career or future at all. Instead, they’ll ask a question like this that assesses your motivations , values, and character.

Career goals essay examples

Use these examples of career goals essays for scholarships to help write your own. Pay special attention to how they’re organized, rather than the content, to inspire your own career goals essay:

Career goals essay example 1 – Discuss your career goals

When I was six years old, I was riding bikes with my older sister around our neighborhood. She had just taught me how to ride, and I was excited to have to freedom to explore with her. When she was rounding a particularly difficult bend to see around, a car happened to be coming along at the same time. It struck her. That bike ride changed our lives forever. Over the next year, I went with my sister every Tuesday and Thursday to her physical therapist ’s appointments to help her regain walking strength. Watching her physical therapist patiently assist my sister back to becoming herself awoken something in me. A passion for helping others in the same way eventually turned into a career goal of becoming a physical therapist myself. I decided to get my bachelor’s degree in exercise science. After graduating in 2019, I knew that the next step for me was to attend a graduate program in physical therapy. I was accepted to Lassell University Master of Science in Rehabilitation Services. This presented me with my latest goal along my career path, and I’m eagerly waiting to start. This scholarship would help me afford the wonderful opportunity to be a part of the Lassell University class of 2023, allowing me to continue working towards my ultimate career goal of becoming a physical therapist and helping others to become themselves again.

Career goals essay example 2 – Where do you see yourself in ten years?

In ten years, I will have been successfully running my own construction business for about five years. I’m currently a second-year student at the University of Texas, pursuing a master’s degree in business administration. I decided to get my MBA because I knew it would be a positive asset toward my long-term career goal of owning a construction business. In my high school years, I worked as a construction apprentice for a local business. I loved many aspects of the business, such as building something from nothing. I knew that I wanted to incorporate this work into my long-term career, but I didn’t want to work as an apprentice . This led me to pursue business. In ten years and with the help of this scholarship, I will have graduated with my MBA almost a decade prior . After graduation, I plan to take a business administration internship with a carpentry business to help myself get a footing in the field. After about two years of this, I will have started my own construction business.

Career goals essay example 3 – What matters most to you and why?

The people I surround myself with matter most to me. Whether it be my relatives, friends, or professional acquaintances, I always care the most about the happiness of the people around me. Making the people around me happy matters the most to me because I truly because we find our happiness through others. I believe that this drive to make a positive impression on the people around me is what drove me towards a career as a nurse . I always thought of hospitals as places where people need someone to support them and make their day a little happier. I wanted to be one of those who spend their careers positively impacting people in need. This scholarship will enable me to finally afford nursing school and go after my dream job full force.

Career goals essay example 4 – What are your short- and long-term career goals, and how will earning this degree contribute to achieving those goals? Please provide a minimum of 200 words.

My short-term career goals involve working directly with underprivileged young people to increase the literacy rate in my community. As a student of an underfunded and understaffed school, I’ve seen firsthand how much of an impact early literacy education makes on long-term achievement. It broke my heart to see my peers embarrassed at their struggle with reading at an advanced age, and this shame added another dimension to their lack of opportunity. Being a literacy educator for young people would allow me to serve this community directly to show them not only the necessity of strong written communication skills, but the joy of reading for pleasure. This program focuses specifically on early literacy, and would provide me a direct route to a career in serving the community I hope to serve. As for long-term career goals, I hope to one day create a program where socioeconomically parents can bring their children for literacy education, not only to increase their ability to navigate the world of language, but also to instill confidence and joy in the written word. What drew me to this program was that it also has administrative, legal, and business dimensions that would set me on the path toward achieving this goal.

Tips for writing a scholarship essay about career goals

Here are some tips to keep in mind for writing a career goals scholarship essay:

Write about goals relevant to the scholarship. Although you may have many different kinds of goals for your personal and professional future, a scholarship essay only discusses objectives that are relevant to the program you’re applying for.

Be honest. Applying for a scholarship is stressful because the applicant’s education is usually reliant on receiving these funds in one way or another. Even though it’s tempting to exaggerate your skills or pretend you’re more passionate about something than you are to make yourself a more competitive applicant, it’s a bad move.

Use your own, unique voice. The essay portion of a scholarship application is your chance to stand out by using your voice. Nobody else, regardless of their academic or professional achievements, is you. Make this clear in your career goals scholarship essay by keeping your unique written voice engrained in the words you produce.

Be specific. A big reason that scholarship committees ask applicants to write a career goals essay is to determine how prepared they are in planning their long-term professional goals. They aren’t interested in providing a scholarship to students who aren’t going to follow through with their career plans.

Explain long and short-term goals . Even if the essay prompt asks you to describe where you see yourself in ten years, you still need to tell them the steps leading towards this picture of success.

Include the short-term goals that add up to your larger career objectives in your essay response. Explain how accomplishing the smaller goals gives you an advantage when tackling long-term ones.

Explain how the program and scholarship will help you. Before writing your career goals essay, consider how this program and scholarship will help you in your career. The answer to this question is essential.

Follow the essay formatting guidelines. This may sound obvious, but it’s surprisingly easy to forget this step when your essay is finally flowing and when you’re scrambling to get it submitted on time.

Check, double-check , and triple-check the essay guidelines for content, word count, and formatting requirements. If you miss any of these steps, your essay may be immediately disqualified no matter how good it or the rest of your application is.

What to write in a career goals essay if your goals have changed

Many times career goals essays are written by students who have already completed at least some college or are applying to a post-graduate program and need more money to continue.

There’s a good chance that your career goals have changed since you started or graduated college. For example, say you wanted to be an engineer , so you got your undergraduate degree in engineering but realized you didn’t like it after working in the industry for a few years.

You decided that nursing would be more up your alley, and now you’re applying for a scholarship for a nursing program. While this isn’t unusual, it can make it more difficult to write a career goals essay since your past work doesn’t necessarily match your future goals.

In this case, you’ll simply need to explain why you changed your career path and why this next one is the best choice for you. Share your decision-making process to show that you haven’t taken the switch lightly, and talk about what you’ve already done to try to pursue this path.

Career goals essay for a scholarship FAQ

How do you write a career goal for a scholarship essay?

You write a career goal for a scholarship essay by sharing your passion, explaining both your long- and short-term goals, and relating your goals to the scholarship.

Explain why you want to pursue the career you’re pursuing, where you hope to be in the future and how you plan to get there, and how the scholarship will help you do this.

How do you describe your career goals in an essay?

You describe your career goals in an essay by explaining what you want to do in your career, why you decided on this career path, and what you’ve done so far to make that a reality.

You can usually work these factors into any prompt you receive, so think through them before you start writing so that you can use them as an outline of sorts.

What are career goals examples?

Examples of career goals include:

Working as a grant writer for a nonprofit organization.

Becoming a department manager and eventually an executive in your field.

Owning your own plumbing company.

Caring for underserved communities as a nurse practitioner .

What are some goals for success?

Some goals for success include growing in your role, building your network, and finding joy in the job. Most careers don’t just happen overnight and require you to set the right milestones that work best for you. Not everyone will have the same goals for success.

How do you start a career goals essay for a scholarship?

You can start a career goals essay for a scholarship by directly answering the prompt. Most scholarship prompts include a word count of between 200 and 500 words, so it’s essential that you immediately respond to the prompt. Attention-grabbing sentences and narratives can be helpful for setting the scene, but an efficient and direct answer will show a clarity of mind that helps enhance the quality of your answer.

BLS – Career planning for high schoolers

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Sky Ariella is a professional freelance writer, originally from New York. She has been featured on websites and online magazines covering topics in career, travel, and lifestyle. She received her BA in psychology from Hunter College.

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Career Essay

Career essay generator.

How do you see yourself 5 or 10 years from now? That question kicks start your imagination and make you visualize yourself in your future career. Maybe you are thinking about it now, but you are likely confused about expressing it in words. Unlike other essay writing , writing your career essay is exciting because you are writing about yourself, your plans, passion, and aspiration. Learn how to make your career essay impressive by reading this article.

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What Is a Career Essay?

A career essay is a text people write to detail their goals or plans for the future. In this essay, people talk about the career they want in the future and the things they have achieved so far. People often ask you to write a career essay when you send an application letter for a scholarship or submit your resume for a job.

How To Write a Rousing Career Essay

You should write your career essay seriously because it might be a deciding factor for your future. That said, in writing your essay, there are a lot of things to consider and a process you need to follow. Your end goal in writing your essay is to convince people that you are determined to walk the talk and make the things you wrote in your descriptive essay to reality.

1. Devise an Engrossing Title

The first thing to think about when writing an essay is coming up with an attention-grabbing title. When people read your essay, they pay the most attention to your title. Also, another benefit of coming up with your title first is that it will serve as a guide for you for the whole essay. 

2. Introduce With a Hook

After devising a title, deliver the next blow with an introduction that piques their curiosity. To do that, begin your essay with a hook. Your hook can be a quote, a question, or you can even provide a statistic. If your introduction is good enough, it will secure the engagement of your readers.

3. Organize Your Ideas

Writing an essay is like taking your readers for a ride. You need to set the vibe and organize the flow of your thoughts. Don’t start too strong it might make the rest of your essay bland. You need to properly build up the development of excitement and make sure the order of your ideas makes sense. 

4. Polish Your Essay

Finalize your essay by proofreading it. When people talk about their passion, they tend to talk too much and include several unnecessary things. Make sure not to do that. Omit all the details that don’t contribute to the overall impact of your reflective essay. Also, don’t forget to review your text for grammatical errors. 

Why is career planning important?

People hustle every day to reach their dream careers. Having a target career gives you a direction and sets your path. Planning your career is essential because being indecisive about it might negatively impact your life. Not having a fixed goal is like not having an end destination. Preparing for it would also make your career action plan achievable.

What is a career genogram?

A career genogram traces back an individual’s family tree and examines the career timeline they pursued. The scope of this genogram reaches the grandparents, extended family, and even the person’s close friends. This graphic representation is helpful when a person has a hard time deciding about his or her career development plan .

What is career assessment?

Career assessment is the process of identifying what career would work best for you. Most assessments are in the form of a questionnaire . It includes questions about your interests, your skills, your hobbies, and your strengths. These are some examples of questions that would help assess your future career. The result of your career assessment might give you ideas on what path to take.

The moment people read your career essay, they often rate how likely you are to succeed. Show them a piece of your mind that would erase all their doubts about your success. They say manifesting works wonders, so manifest the future that you want best by composing a rousing career essay. 

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Discuss in a career essay the skills needed for success in the digital marketing field.

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Mapping the Future: Where Do I See Myself in 20 Years

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My Life In 10 Years Essay | Goals for Life, Vision and Future in 10 years

February 13, 2024 by Prasanna

My Life In 10 Years Essay: We as a whole have objectives that we endeavor to accomplish. Some present moments, others long haul. Objectives make our lives energizing. They make us ascend each day to seek after them. Without them, life would be pointless, with no reason and with no ability to know east from west. Indeed, even detainees have objectives. Some of them enlist for courses and study hard until they accomplish their degrees. I additionally have my own arrangement of objectives that I have separated into three classifications, monetary, social and otherworldly. With a long-term emergency course of action, I work every day to guarantee that my objectives come around.

You can read more  Essay Writing  about articles, events, people, sports, technology many more.

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My Life Goals in 10 Years Essay

When defining individual objectives we should initially consider where we as of now are. Maybe you have done very well monetarily, however, your own connections are seriously inadequate. Perhaps your marriage is secure and friendly, however, in the space of sentiment, the fire has since a long time ago darkened. We need to take a legitimate evaluation of where we have succeeded and where we have fizzled. At that point, we can decide how to continue forward. Considering this, here are 10 essential objectives to achieve as you plan for life in the following 10 years.

Marriage and Family Harmony 

Keeping up and extending just as reestablishing and mending in this space ought to totally be the main concern in your own objectives. Pinpoint the connections in the direst condition. It may very well be that your marriage is in extreme difficulty. Potentially your relationship with an ex makes incredible agony in your whole family. Maybe it’s compelling correspondence issues with your youngsters. Any place the peril focuses is, the objective is to decide them and devise an arrangement for settling the issues. Make certain to feature where you have prevailing too, and how you may develop those seeds somewhere else. The objective is a family living in harmony and agreement.

Obligation to Improved Physical Health 

A decent spot to begin when discussing life objectives is to ensure you really have a daily existence a long time from now. That surely begins with great actual wellbeing. There are no certifications on carrying on with a long life, however, it is feasible to enormously build your chances. Tune in to your primary care physician when he advises you to lose those 25 additional pounds. Make an activity plan that you appreciate and relish. Ensure that a long time from now you are however energetic and fit as you seem to be ok at this point.

Start a Business 

While having my fantasy work is something I anticipate, remaining utilized for the remainder of my life isn’t something I imagined myself doing. I would prefer not to burn through the entirety of my energetic years building another person’s fantasies. I need to assemble my own fantasy. I have consistently longed for having a business, ideally in the corrective business. I need to work for myself. I need to utilize similar individuals, who will help me assemble my vision. I need to improve the existence of both my clients and representatives. Most importantly, I need to have independence from the rat race.

Organizations require a lot of infusions, as far as time and assets, before they can remain all alone. In this way, beginning a business currently is the best monetary move I can at any point make. I’m as yet youthful, I am constantly on the planet, I have fewer obligations and if there should be an occurrence of a business disappointment, I can generally recover myself. This is presumably the last objective I desire to seek after in my long-term plan since I need to guarantee my life is altogether first before I can begin a business.

Go to my fantasy get-away 

There are three places that are at the highest point of my number one objections list. They incorporate Brazil, India, and Egypt. I couldn’t want anything more than to visit Brazil and partake in the festival. I need to be there at the focal point of everything when the roads are lit with brilliant motorcades and everyone is simply singing, moving and having a ball. There are numerous things I might want to find in Brazil, the wonderful seashores, the pink dolphins, Iguazu Falls and in case I’m adequately fortunate, I may take a helicopter ride to have a perspective on the Statue of Christ on top of Corcovado Mountain.

At the point when I consider India, one thing rings a bell the Taj Mahal. Considered one of the marvels of the world, this great castle is made of marbles and valuable stones. I need to be an observer to this famous piece of design that has stood the test of time and keeps on entrancing us right up ’til the present time.

FAQ’s on My Life In 10 Years

Question 1. How can I see myself in 10 years?

Answer: You can answer the question: Where do you see yourself in 10 years by following these points:

•  Do your research.
• Imagine your future.
• Relate your answer to the job.
• Be ambitious, yet realistic.
• Tell them what you want.
• End your answer with a question.

Question 2. How to conclude the essay?

Answer: Taking everything into account, I consider myself to be 10 years old as a devoted, proficient, adoring and caring individual from family and a superior person. An individual who can be looked for guidance, help and ideas, who is a productive member of society and qualities straightforward things of joy in life-these should be my characteristics before the following decade’s over.

Question 3. Examples of “What are you in 10 years?”

Answer: Some of the examples are:

• I am passionate about my job
• I have a family
• I have a business of my own
• I am a social worker
• I have achieved my dream job
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What I Want To Become in Future Essay

Everyone has a dream to become something in life, and they work hard to achieve it. Dreaming is very good because it helps us to choose the right path and make us successful. It does not allow your time to be wasted and helps in performing at its best.

Table of Contents

Short and Long Essays on What I Want To Become in Future

Essay 1 (250 words) – what i want to be in: a choreographer.

introduction

Everyone has some dreams and wants to become something, the only difference is how much we chase our dreams or move forward on the path of our dreams. When I was little, I used to watch various dance reality shows and always wanted to dance like him and then one day I decided to become a choreographer.

My inspiration

When I was in my primary classes, I performed in my school’s annual function, and I was awarded for that. It was a wake-up call for me as I was young then. I still hear the thunder of those applause. Like everyone cheered me up and I felt really happy. Dance has always fascinated me and I was more excited to go to my dance class than to go to school.

My parents admitted me to a dance class, where I learn new styles and techniques every day. I listen to my teachers and practice them everyday. My mother also works very hard for me, she takes me for dance class, then takes me for tuition class. When she comes back home, she even cooks for us and I never want to let my parents’ expectations go down.

My parents always say that no work is small or big, it depends on our thinking. If you decide to make yourself a good person, then you can become like Mother Teresa. It all depends on our hard work and dedication. We should learn everything but focus on one thing, so that you remain dedicated towards your profession and that is the key to success.

Essay 2 (400 Words) – What I Want to Be an Astronaut

Dr. A.P.J. There is a famous quote by Abdul Kalam, “A dream is not what you see in your sleep, a dream is that which does not let you sleep”, and it is absolutely true. I have dreamed of becoming an astronaut, and making my nation and parents proud.

Why do I want to be an astronaut ? (Why I want to be an Astronaut)

When I was little, my grandmother and I used to sleep on the terrace and I used to ask her many questions while looking at the sky, like how far is the sky?, why do the stars seem so small?, etc. The sky attracted me all the time and I was never satisfied with my grandmother’s answer, and I always wanted to see the sky and the stars with my naked eye.

Then one day my parents told me that, I need to become an astronaut to see and know about such things. It’s all like a dream for me, and I really want to see the sky and the stars in the future. I have heard about Kalpana Chawla, Sunita Williams etc and I want to be like them.

How can I achieve my goal ? (How can I achieve my Goal)

The only way to become an astronaut is to study thoroughly, and I always focus on getting good marks from my academics towards my studies, which will help in getting admission in further colleges. Apart from all this I am always watching various TV related to space. I try to learn from the show and many other things as well.

My father always helps me and he brings me various interesting books related to space. He helps me to increase my knowledge and always motivates me. My parents support me so much that it seems as if it is their dream. My school teachers also support me, and I always participate in my school’s internal science competition. This contest helps me create new gadgets and show off my creativity, and I love doing so.

I am sure that one day I will definitely become an astronaut, because I am very eager to fulfill my dreams and this is my passion. When a person is very passionate about his dreams then no one can stop him.

We all should see our dream as a goal, because we are human and God has given us a brain which makes us far better than animals. As animals and insects also eat, sleep, but the only difference between humans and animals is that they have no purpose. So don’t be like a beast and use your brain and set a goal and move towards it.

Essay 3 (600 words) – What I want to be an Engineer

The dream should be big, it is not necessary, if you want to achieve any goal, then you need to work hard to achieve that goal. Usually students change their goals from time to time just like me. When I was little, the autorickshaw attracted me a lot and in fact it was like a puzzle and I would always ask my mother to ride it. When I was a little older, I saw a real airplane and now I am curious to ride it. Eventually my parents realized that I loved machines, and I was very curious whenever my father wanted me to take me to his garage.

How to become an engineer ? (How to be an Engineer?)

There is one more reason behind my becoming an engineer and that is my father. He is an engineer and he always helps people and people even thank him, then I used to feel proud of him, and I decided that one day I will also become an engineer. My parents never forced me, but asked me to choose my own goals.

To become an engineer, you have to focus on your academic studies which will help you in choosing the college for further studies. One, you have to choose the science stream for your class 11th and 12th and pass an entrance exam that will help you choose your college. There are many such colleges in India. It is not like getting admission in any other college, for this you have to take an IIT. You have to take admission in college. Nowadays the level of competition has become much higher and better.

What I Do to Achieve My Dreams

I study for four hours daily and complete my assignments and projects on time. Actually discipline is very essential for our life, and if you make it your habit to get things done, it will always help you in your success. I have a routine and I follow it regularly. Whenever I have doubts regarding any topic, I take the help of my teacher and solve it. It is very important for everything to be clean to keep oneself steady and centered. How do I help others as an engineer?

I have decided to invent automatic machine which will help people and make their work easier. Usually people spend a lot for cleaning the house, and my mother suffers a lot due to the lack of cleaners in my house. So I have decided to gift an automatic house cleaner for my mother along with others. I want to make a machine for the students which can guide them in their studies.

Usually, whenever we search for something on Google, we constantly see it on the screen of our phone or laptop, which is very harmful for us in many cases. That’s why I want to develop a tool that will teach you like a teacher and also show you pictures automatically, and provide you all the information you need.

No field is small, if anything matters, it’s how you think about it. Some people want to earn money from their profession while some people want to help others with their profession. The only thing you need to think about is how loyal you are to the work you do with yourself. Read when it’s time to study, and play when it’s time to play, and you’re sure one day you’ll be successful. There are many such examples in our history, such as Newton, Thomas Edison, Dr. A.P.J. Read the story of Abdul Kalam’s struggles, it will definitely inspire you to succeed. Try to be a good person apart from your profession, because it will help you in making you successful by changing not only your work but also your attitude.

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What I Want To Be In Life (Essay Sample) 2023

Table of Contents

Introduction

Is It Safe to Pay Someone to Write An Essay and Is it realistic to expect a low-cost, High-Quality Essay from a Cheap Paper Writing Service ?

There is a reason why life coaches are in demand these days: everyone wants to live purposefully and make their days count.

It is true that discovering one’s purpose and source of happiness may be challenging. But it’s also true that by knowing what you want to do in life and constantly reflecting on them, winning in life can be realized.

What do you want in life? If you also have a similar paper to do on what you really want in life, Hire an Essay Writing Service to help gather your thoughts for you. Feel free to explore the rest of our site for essays on other interesting topics.

Essay Example on What I Want to Achieve In Life

Life is about striving. Everyone wants something that gives purpose and happiness. That’s why I believe it is important to reflect from time to time about what our life purpose is and what we are doing to pursue it.

Whenever I reflect on what I want to be in life, I examine the present roles I have and think about my desires.

What do I want in life? This paper will serve as a blueprint for my future plans. This will point me in the right direction, goals, and approach given my current resources.

It is my hope that looking back on this life plan will keep me motivated to accomplish tasks and pursue victory in all that I do.

Reflecting on My Role as a Student

As a learner, I strive hard to excel in my academics. I am aiming for great grades to build my credibility.

I also want to leverage my academic successes to expand my professional network based on the career path I have chosen. I want to accomplish a BSN or Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. I want my knowledge to be used to provide compassionate care for critical patients.

My conviction is that good health should be on the top of everyone’s list of priorities. I am passionate about supporting others regarding this. I plan to do this not only by getting good grades but also by studying for my licensure. I will aim to top the NCLEX-PN and approach it with a can-do mindset.

Reflecting on My Role as a Family Member

I currently support my dad, mom, and siblings in small ways. I assist them in our own business whenever I can. I look after my nieces and nephews, as well as making time during the weekends for my siblings.

I plan to gift my first salary to my parents in the future. I want to show them that I appreciate their love for me. By continuing my studies and performing my duties at home, I believe that I can keep my family happy.

I know that this goal keeps me motivated. It also strengthens me whenever life gets complicated. Therefore, I should always keep the welfare of my family in mind in everything that I do. I hope to make them proud someday when my dream is finally realized.

Reflecting on My Role as a Member of My Community

I believe one important aspect in a person’s overall success is a person’s ability to give back. It is also important to recognize the role of community in maximizing one’s potential. I find that the people I admire the most are generally good citizens of their hometowns and countries.

I am considering volunteering at the local hospital to add value to my neighborhood. It will not only benefit my nursing career. It will also make me become more sensitive in addressing the community’s actual needs.

I believe that building relationships with those nearest me is essential to having a peaceful home and a more purposeful way of living.

There are several things that I strive for in life. I can see now that there are many steps I have to take to achieve completion. The road ahead will be laden with challenges, but I am prepared to face them with a positive perspective. I know that becoming successful does not happen overnight.

As I keep my eye on the prize, I will make it a point to remember one thing: it’s not about the money. It’s about making an impact on the world through the profession I’ve chosen. I will pay attention to the opportunities before me and put to work all the things my mother and father taught me.

I will work hard and always remember my purpose as I run after my dreams. I am determined to change lives through my skills and passion. I will make the most out of my school days and learn as much as I can to prepare for the years ahead.

In a couple years, I will reread this piece as a way of checking in on myself and my plans. I have high hopes that whatever I will be doing then will be aligned with what my heart is telling me today.

Someday, I want to be able to tell my kids that I identified a goal, ran hard after it, and made it happen. I hope I make them proud.

What Do I Desire Most In Life (a Short Sample)

When I think about what I want to do in life, I always go back to my True North: my passion. More than becoming a registered nurse, I really want to help people. I want to be in a position where I can easily access resources to do this. I also want to be equipped with the practical and technical skills to help people get better.

More than good grades, the best ways for me to get there is through hard work, a good rhythm, and a solid support system. This is why I am so grateful for my parents. With them as my motivation, I have focus and every incentive to succeed in my goals.

While not everyone agrees with the path I have decided to take, I am convinced that it’s the right life goal for me. Whether or not I am able to get financial aid, I will do my best to graduate with honors and make my teachers and friends proud.

Most people will have an opinion on how I choose to do things, but I am choosing whose opinions matter the most. I will filter out the rest according to how they align with my values.

How to Write a Conclusion Paragraph on What I Want to Be?

Look over what you have written so far and note the most salient points. String those thoughts together in a summary, synthesizing benefits and challenges, and coming up with a final reflection.

5 Examples of Needs and Wants In Life

Here are five different answers that people can give when asked about their needs and wants:

• a job they love,
• financial security,
• fulfillment,
• a family of their own,
• and inner peace.

Note that while these are general answers, you are more likely to uncover a variety of combinations depending on life experience.

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Describe a Perfect Job You Would Like To Have in the Future: IELTS Cue Card

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Updated on 31 July, 2024

Sunita Kadian

Ielts expert.

If you plan to move abroad for study, immigration, or work, you will most certainly take the International Language Testing System or IELTS exam, which includes a speaking test.

Below are two sample essays for a speaking task–  Describe a perfect job you would like to have in the future. You can go through these to understand the key areas where candidates can gain marks.

Table of Contents

Q. describe a perfect job you would like to have in the future, q. what professional role would you like to play in the coming years, download ielts sample papers, download e-books for ielts preparation, important ielts exam resources.

Since my childhood, I was always asked this question– what I would want to be once I grow up, and I would always be confused. Over the years, I observed the functioning of different jobs and tried to find what suited me the best. Now that I am old enough to decide, I know the answer to this question. 

The perfect job for me would be to become a doctor and give back to my people. I derived the inspiration for taking this role up because of my father, who has served as a doctor for 30 years. I remember him being late at night, hitting emergencies, treating people, and giving his all. Moreover, seeing him perform his job with utmost dedication for the betterment of others always inspired me.

I am currently studying MBBS– the degree to become a doctor in India and can't wait to step into a hospital. As a doctor, I aim to expand my ability to reach people in the farthest corners of the country and treat them. In fact, I have been interning in a village, where I have aided in childbirth and assisted in minor medical emergencies.

With my strong interest in Biology and the will to do something meaningful with my life, I am sure of this career path.

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I have always been very creative and thoroughly interested in human psychology. I am also passionate about what people think and how they make decisions. Growing up, I wasn't aware of the different professions one could pursue. Moreover, my family has always been academically driven, so there was always pressure to do well in my studies.

With this motivation to pursue higher studies and use my interest to create value, in the coming years, I plan on excelling in the field of marketing and advertising. I firmly believe that this field consists of both my love for art and creativity and mapping human behavior when it comes to business and consumerism. 

As a marketeer, I aim to work for companies or products and increase sales while promoting business growth. It would be a tremendous learning experience to navigate what the audience wants and what we can do to get them the ideal product. I also aim to participate in harnessing social media as an excellent means to spread the word about the company and attract the target audience. Additionally, analytics also plays a massive role in marketing and advertising, and I want to explore this stream as well. 

In terms of marketing and advertising roles and skills, I would like to explore the luxury brands industry, given their expansive reach across nations.

More Resources to Read About IELTS Cue Cards:

IELTS Exam Overview

IELTS is required to be taken by international students and workers who wish to study or work in a country where English is the primary language of communication. Know the complete details.

IELTS Exam Syllabus

With the right knowledge of the IELTS exam syllabus and pattern, cracking the popular English test won’t be difficult.

• IELTS Exam Pattern

The IELTS exam pattern encompasses four major sections, i.e. listening, speaking, writing, and reading.

Register For IELTS

IELTS is the most popular and crucial test for evaluating English language proficiency throughout the world. Learn how to register for the IELTS exam.

IELTS Exam Eligibility Criteria

It becomes necessary for candidates to meet the eligibility for IELTS exam and demonstrate their language proficiency while being assessed on four parameters, namely, Writing, Reading, Speaking and Listening.

IELTS Exam Fees

The IELTS exam fee in India varies based on the types of IELTS tests. The link below shows detailed information on the IELTS exam fees.

IELTS Exam Dates 2022

The IELTS exam dates are allotted on a first-come and first-serve basis. Choose your date and timings beforehand to avoid the delay. You can register for the test both in online and offline mode.

IELTS Test Centres in India

Fully aware of the growing popularity of the language test, we bring to you a list of IELTS exam centers in India. The list will enable aspirants in better planning before registering for the test.

Band Score for Reading

IELTS reading band score decides the knowledge and proficiency of the English language of the applicants.

IELTS Listening Band Score

The listening section evaluates the comprehension level of candidates. The scores also depend on the understanding of different accents and dialects.

IELTS Score Validity

The IELTS score validity for General and Academic is two years across the globe. The IELTS result validity for Canada is two years.

• Types of IELTS Exam

There are two types of IELTS tests – i) Academic IELTS and ii) General Training IELTS. Candidates are often confused about making the right choice of IELTS test that can meet their requirements regarding their education or job.

Books for IELTS Preparation

Picking the best IELTS books for preparation is essential for scoring well. It may seem tough at first but cracking the examination successfully is not impossible.

• IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics

Writing task 2 in IELTS is descriptive essay writing. The applicants are supposed to write an essay in response to the statement or situation given in the essay.

Tips for IELTS Writing

Before appearing for the test, let’s take a look at the below-mentioned IELTS writing tips and tricks to score well in the writing section.

Reading Section IELTS

Reading is the second part of the IELTS test and takes 60 minutes. It consists of three or sometimes four reading passages to increase difficulty, and there are a total of 40 questions to answer.

IELTS Speaking Preparation

Please note that your performance on the speaking test is assessed based on the following criteria- fluency and coherence, grammatical range and accuracy, lexical resource, and pronunciation.

Phrases for IELTS Speaking

There are many phrases for IELTS speaking that a candidate should practice beforehand. If you aim for band 9, you should know these phrases.

• IELTS Band Score Chart

IELTS is one of the most used English Language Proficiency Tests. The exam is scored in bands. Your IELTS band score determines the performance level of your test.

• IELTS Band Score

Understanding the IELTS band score is not difficult. The results of the examination are reported on a scale of 9 bands.

• IELTS Slot Booking

To book the IELTS exam, the candidates can either visit their nearest test center or book the slot online by visiting the official website of IDP. If they choose to go with the second option, they should follow the steps given below.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

IELTS Academic writing is meant for students who are applying for top-ranked universities and colleges in English-speaking countries. The writing task one is an academic summary writing based on diagrammatic and graphical representation.

• IELTS Writing Task 2

Writing Task 2 is the second part of the writing section of IELTS, where aspirants are presented with a point of view, argument, or problem and asked to write an essay in response to the question.

Writing Task 1 IELTS

In IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 starts with a diagram, a visual representation of information. It can be a table, map, graph, process, diagram, or picture.

IELTS Essay Samples

The essay for IELTS is part of Writing Task 2. It is the same for the General Training and Academic of the IELTS. You will get a topic and have to write an essay on the same.

IELTS Cue Cards

The IELTS speaking cue cards come into play for the second part when the candidate will be choosing cue cards and then speaking on a topic for two minutes at least.

Sunita Kadian, co-founder and Academic Head at Yuno Learning is an expert in IELTS and English communication. With a background in competitive exam preparation (IELTS, GMAT, CAT, TOEFL), interview prep, and corporate soft skills training, she has adapted these programs for the Yuno platform. Her dedication and commitment earned high praise from students, especially for her public speaking and advanced speaking English courses. Sunita's mastery of language nuances and articulation makes her a favorite among IELTS students. She holds a Postgraduate degree in English Literature, a B.Ed., and a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Relations.

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20 Smart Answers: “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?”

By Status.net Editorial Team on April 10, 2023 — 10 minutes to read

Why Do They Ask This Question?

When you’re asked “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?,” the interviewer wants to gain insight into your career aspirations, personal goals, and how you envision growing within the company or industry. This question also helps interviewers understand whether your long-term goals align with the opportunities that the company or job may provide.

Before you go into the interview, take some time to reflect on what you genuinely want to achieve in the next five years. Consider the following aspects:

• Areas you wish to specialize in or skills you want to refine
• Leadership opportunities you’d like to explore
• Professional certifications or training programs you plan to complete
• Any goals related to the company’s values or industry trends

Understanding your own goals will help you create a truthful and thoughtful response that showcases your ambition and commitment to personal growth. Moreover, demonstrating how you plan to utilize and develop the skills gained in this role will show the interviewer that you’re a good fit for the company.

It’s important to remember that your answer should be tailored to the specific position or industry you’re interviewing for. You want to show the interviewer that your long-term goals are a natural progression from the job you’re applying for. Feel free to express enthusiasm for the company, industry, or role, but avoid making unrealistic claims or commitments.

Tips for Structuring Your Answer

Being honest in your response means sharing your true career aspirations, while still trying to keep your goals realistic and attainable within the company. Your response might include the following aspects:

• Specific job titles or roles you aspire to reach
• Skills you plan to develop or improve
• Any certifications, trainings, or educational goals you intend to achieve

Be Adaptable

Show flexibility in your answer by acknowledging that change is inevitable and that you’re willing to adapt to the company’s needs as well as your own professional growth. You can tell your interviewer that you’re open to new opportunities within the organization.

• Highlight your ability to learn new skills and take on new challenges
• Discuss how you can grow within the company and contribute to its success
• Emphasize your willingness to embrace change and adapt as needed

Show Your Commitment

• Express how you see your professional growth aligned with the company’s goals
• Discuss the ways you intend to contribute meaningfully to the organization
• Reiterate your excitement to be part of the company’s future

Addressing Uncertainty

It’s natural to feel uncertain about your future, especially when asked to predict where you will be in five years. However, using some strategies, you can form a thoughtful response that communicates your aspirations and adaptability.

Firstly, consider discussing your long-term goals in broad terms. Even if you’re unsure about the specifics, try to focus on the direction you’d like your career to move. For example, mention professional growth opportunities or attribute you’d like to develop. This approach demonstrates ambition without being too rigid.

Example: “In five years, I hope to have built on my skills and gained more responsibility within this company. I’m eager to learn from experienced team members and eventually take on leadership roles.”

Secondly, when you are not entirely sure about the exact positions or steps, you can emphasize a growth mindset. Talk about continuously improving and adapting to changing situations, which would show that you’re flexible and resilient.

• Constant learning
• Embrace challenges
• Adapt to change

Example: “I’m committed to continually expanding my knowledge and improving, which is why I’m enthusiastic about your company’s focus on innovation. Wherever I see myself in five years, I’ll be ready to adapt and grow.”

If future possibilities are vague, mention that you’re open to exploring various paths or contributing to different projects. Clarify that you’re excited to work with the company and discover opportunities to make a meaningful impact.

Example: “I’m excited about the wide range of projects your company is involved in. While I may not know the precise role I’ll fill in five years, I’m eager to contribute to a company like yours and find my unique path.”

Setting Realistic Goals

When crafting your answer to the oft-dreaded question, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”, it’s crucial to set realistic goals. Establishing achievable objectives demonstrates not only your ambition but also your clarity about what it takes to advance your career and thrive in the company.

One way to set realistic goals is to consider the job role and how it aligns with your long-term aspirations. Analyze the job description and requirements, and think about how they fit with your personal growth plans. Start by identifying the necessary steps to progress in the company or your field, and incorporate them into your answer. Here are some tips to help you:

• Reflect on the skills or experience you need to acquire in the next five years. For example, perhaps you’ll need to complete a specific certification or training to advance in your industry. Mention this in your response, acknowledging the importance of self-development and continuous learning.
• Consider potential career paths within the company. Research and identify possible roles you might transition into, ensuring your answer aligns with the organization’s structure and growth opportunities. This demonstrates a commitment to the company and its future.
• Think about your personal life and how it may impact your career trajectory. It’s essential to recognize that your personal circumstances could play a role in determining your career path over the next five years. By balancing work and personal life, you can set realistic expectations for yourself and your employer.

As you formulate your response, keep in mind that it’s perfectly normal to not have an exact plan for the next five years. However, it’s crucial to demonstrate a strong work ethic, flexibility, and willingness to learn and grow within your role and the company.

Aligning with Company Vision

It’s also useful to consider the company’s vision and values. Doing so shows interviewers that you have done your research and genuinely care about the potential role you might play in the organization’s future.

Take some time to familiarize yourself with the company’s mission statement and objectives. Visit their website, read up on any press releases, and research the history and recent accomplishments. This information will give you a solid foundation to align your long-term career goals with the organization’s vision.

Next, reflect on your personal values and career aspirations to find a meaningful connection with the company’s ethos. Use your research to identify opportunities for growth within the organization and emphasize how your contribution can serve as a catalyst for furthering their mission.

• Review the job description thoroughly and understand the key responsibilities and required skills.
• Reflect on your unique strengths and how they can contribute to the role and the company’s success.
• Think about possible career milestones within the role and how they align with your long-term goals.
• Consider the company’s projects or initiatives you would like to be involved in or lead, helping the organization grow and evolve in the future.
• Prepare to communicate these points with confidence and enthusiasm during the interview.

An example of a well-aligned response could be:

“In five years, I see myself holding a leadership role within your company’s marketing department, where I can contribute to the development and execution of successful marketing strategies. I’m especially excited about the potential opportunity to work on your company’s sustainability initiatives, as I believe strongly in environmentally-conscious business practices.”

Focusing on Skills and Growth

When answering the question “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”, focusing on skills and growth is an excellent approach. This shows employers that you’re dedicated to improving yourself professionally and highlights your commitment to the role you’re applying for.

Improving Current Skillset

Identify the key skills relevant to the job you’re seeking, and consider how you can enhance these skills over time: this can include further training, mentorship, or hands-on experience.

For example, you might say something like:

“In the next five years, I plan to hone my expertise in project management. I would like to collaborate on more complex projects and learn from experienced professionals in the field. I also plan to pursue a certification in Agile methodologies to streamline processes and deliver higher-quality results.”

This answer demonstrates your ambition, as well as a desire to contribute positively to the organization.

Acquiring New Skills

Besides improving your current skillset, it’s important to consider acquiring new skills. Employers appreciate candidates who are adaptable and committed to their professional development. Think about which additional skills could help you be more effective in your role or support the company’s goals.

“I am eager to learn more about data analysis tools like SQL and Python to inform and optimize our marketing strategies. I believe this will allow me to contribute more effectively to data-driven decision-making within the team and help the company achieve its larger objectives.”

“In the next five years, I plan to become an expert in Python programming and machine learning. I’m committed to taking courses and attending workshops to expand my skillset, which I believe will be an asset to your company’s tech team.”

“My goal is to develop my skills and expertise in this field, and in five years, I hope to have become an expert in my area of work and be recognized as a thought leader in the industry.”

Leadership-Focused Examples

Discussing your aspirations for a leadership role demonstrates your interest in taking on responsibility and driving teams to succeed. Emphasize your ability to guide others and create a positive work environment:

“As someone with a passion for teamwork and collaboration, I see myself in a leadership position in the next five years. I’m eager to mentor junior colleagues and help foster their professional growth, while also contributing to the overall success of the company.”

“In five years, I see myself as a senior member of this organization, having taken on more leadership responsibilities and contributing to the growth of the company.”

Career-Focused Examples

“In five years, I see myself in a mid-level management position within the marketing department. I plan on using the next few years to further develop my skills in marketing strategy and data analysis, and I truly believe this company is the perfect place to grow and achieve those goals.”

“I am excited about the opportunity to learn and grow in this role, and in five years, I hope to have taken on new challenges and responsibilities within the company.”

“I am passionate about making a positive impact in the world, and in five years, I see myself working on projects that have a tangible impact on people’s lives and the environment.”

“In five years, I hope to have built strong relationships with my colleagues and clients, and have a reputation for being a reliable and trustworthy partner in business.”

“I am committed to continuous learning and personal growth, and in five years, I hope to have completed additional training and certifications that will help me progress in my career.”

“I am excited about the potential for innovation and new technologies in this field, and in five years, I hope to have contributed to the development of new products or services that can benefit our customers.”

“In five years, I see myself in a leadership role within the company, mentoring and coaching others to help them achieve their full potential.”

“In five years, I hope to have made a significant impact in this company and have grown both professionally and personally. I see myself taking on more responsibility and leadership roles, while continuing to develop my skills and expertise in my field. Ultimately, I would like to be seen as a valuable asset to the company and contribute to its continued success.”

“In five years, I see myself having made a meaningful impact in this industry and having established myself as a thought leader and expert in my field. I am someone who is constantly looking for ways to innovate and improve, and I hope to have brought new ideas and approaches to the table that have helped move the industry forward. I also hope to have built a strong network of contacts and collaborators who share my passion for this work.”

“In five years, I see myself having built a successful and fulfilling career in this industry, while also maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I believe that it’s important to have a sense of purpose and meaning in one’s work, but also to prioritize personal relationships and hobbies outside of work. I hope to have found that balance and to be living a life that feels both rewarding and fulfilling.”

Your answer doesn’t need to be set in stone or overly specific; instead, focus on showcasing your skills, growth potential, and flexibility in the ever-evolving professional landscape.

To summarize:

• Align your goals with the company’s objectives
• Emphasize your desire for growth and development

Crafting the perfect response takes time, so give yourself an opportunity to reflect and practice before your interview.

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What I Want to Become in Life Essay

Everyone has a dream to become something in their life and we work hard to follow our dreams. It is very good to have dreams because they help us to choose the correct path and make us successful. It never allows us to waste our time and perform the best.

Short and Long Essays on What I Want To Become in Future in English

Essay on What I Want To Become in Future for students of class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and class 12 in English in 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 500 words. Also find short What I Want To Become in Future essay 10 lines.

What I Want To Become in Future Essay 10 Lines (100 – 150 Words)

1) I want to chase my dream of becoming a social worker.

2) My interest in social work was from my childhood.

3) I want to do something good for the people of my country.

4) The great work of social activists attracted me to become a good person in life.

5) I want to help the poor and needy as much as possible.

6) Helping others makes me happy and I want this happiness permanent in my life.

7) By becoming a social worker, I want to make a positive change in society.

8) By helping others I feel pleasure, peace of mind, and satisfaction.

9) While helping my friends and others, I realize that I can take these efforts to a higher level.

10) Seeing the helpless poor and beggars motivated me to become a social worker.

Essay 1 (250 Words) – What I Want to Become: A Choreographer

Introduction

All of us have some dreams and want to become something, just the difference is how much we follow our dreams. When I was young, I use to watch different reality shows of dance and always wished to dance like them and I decided to be a Choreographer one day.

My inspiration

When I was in my primary classes I performed in my annual function and I was also awarded for it. It was an awakening incidence for me because I was very young. I can hear the hand of applauses even today. How everyone cheered me up and I felt really very happy. Dance always attracted me and I be more ready for my dance classes rather than going to school.

My parents admitted me to a dance class, where I daily learn new styles and techniques. I practice daily and focus on what my teachers say. My mother also works hard for me, because she takes me to the dance class then my tuition. When she comes home, she also cooks for us and I will never let my parents down.

My parents always say that no profession is small or big, it is our determinations. If we decide to be the best human being, we can also be another Mother Teresa. It is all upon our hard work and passion. We should learn everything but should focus on one thing. Always be the best in your profession and this is the key to success.

Essay 2 (400 Words) – What I want to Become: An Astronaut

“A dream is not what you see in sleep, Dream is something which doesn’t let you sleep” a famous quote of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and it is absolutely true. I also have also seen a dream to become an astronaut and become the make our nation and parents proud.

Why I want to be an Astronaut?

When I was young I and my grandmother used to sleep on the roof and I use to ask many questions about the sky, like how far is the sky? Why sarks look so small? etc. the sky always uses to fascinate me and I was never satisfied with her answer and wanted to see the sky and stars with my naked eyes.

Then one day my father told me that, I need to become an astronaut to see all such things. It is like a dream for me and I really want to see the sky and stars in the future. I heard about many women like Kalpana Chawla, Sunita Willems, etc. and I also want to be one of them.

How can I Achieve my Goal?

The only way to become an astronaut is to study thoroughly and I always concentrate on my studies to get good marks in my academics which will help me to get admission to a good college. Apart from this I always various TV shows related to space and learn many things.

My father always helps me and he provides various videos and interesting books related to space. They help me to enhance my knowledge and also motivate me. My parents support me so much as if it’s their dream. My school teachers also support me and I always take part in the inter-school science competition. This competition helps me to make new gadgets and show my creativity and I like it very much.

I am sure that I will definitely be an astronaut one day because I follow my dreams and it’s my passion. When a person is very much passionate about his/her dreams, no one can stop him/her.

All of us should see dreams and should have a goal because we are human and God has given us a brain that works far better than other animals. As animals and insects also eat and sleep but the only difference is, they do not have any motto in their life. So, don’t be an animal and use your brain and choose a goal and just go for it.

Essay 3 (500 – 600 Words) – What I want to Become: An Engineer

It is not necessary to have a big dream, if something is necessary then it is how much hard work you do to achieve it. Generally, when most of the students change their goal as per time like me. As when I was young the auto rikshaw use to fascinate me a lot and was really like a puzzle and I always use to complain my mother to ride it. When I grew old, I saw an original airplane and it again provoked me and again I wanted to ride it. Finally, my parents figured that I love machines and want to know then, I use to look very curious whenever my father use to visit a car garage.

How to be an Engineer?

Another reason behind being an Engineer is my father himself. He is an engineer and he always helps people and when people thank him, I feel proud and I decided to be an engineer someday. My parents never forced me I choose my goal as my own interest.

To become an engineer, you have to focus on your academic studies and this will help you to decide your college. One has to take the science stream in their class 11 and 12 and then have to qualify an entrance exam which will decide their college. In India, there are many colleges. It is not about getting admission to any college; one should try to get an IIT college. Because nowadays the level of competition is very high and one should be the best.

What I Do to Achieve My Dream

I daily read through for 4 hours a day and always complete my assignments and projects on time. Actually, discipline is very necessary for our life and if you develop a habit of completing things on time, it will always help you to be successful. I have a routine and I follow it thoroughly. Whenever I have doubts about any subject, I ask my teachers and clear everything. To stay focused it is very necessary to be clear. How I will help others as an Engineer.

I have decided to invent the automatic machine which will help people and will make their work easy. Generally, people invest a lot in house cleaners, and in the absence of my house cleaner, my mother suffers a lot. So, I decided to gift my mother as well as others an automatic house cleaner. I also want to make a machine for students, which will guide them in their studies.

Generally, we have to search for anything on Google, and for this, we have to focus on our phone screens which are harmful in many ways. So, I want to develop a machine which will teach you like a teacher and will automatically show you images and will give you all types of information as per our needs.

No stream or field is small if something matters, it is how you think. Some people want to make money in their profession whereas some want to help others, in the same profession. The only thing you need is to stay loyal to yourself and work hard. Read when it’s time to read and play when it is time to play and believe me you will definitely be successful someday. There are many examples from our history like Newton, Thomas Addison, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, etc. read their story and struggle; this will definitely inspire you to become successful in life. Apart from your profession, one should also focus on becoming a good human. Because it is not only your work it’s also your attitude which makes a difference.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Ans . The aim is the target that we want to achieve in our life.

Ans . It is important to have an aim as it makes us determined to achieve the goal of our life.

Ans . We need to be positive and face the obstacles that hinder us from achieving our aim.

Ans . Yes, dreams can be seen without any effort but the aim needs effort to be fulfilled.

Ans . We can achieve our goal if we are self-determined, enthusiastic, hardworking, optimistic, and punctual in our life.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Expectations — My Future Expectations throughout the Semester and Life

My Future: My Expectations in Life

• Categories: Expectations Life Goals

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Published: Sep 1, 2020

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Greater Good Science Center • Magazine • In Action • In Education

How Thinking About the Future Makes Life More Meaningful

Mindfulness is all the rage these days, and for good reason. Focusing on the moment can improve our well-being , foster compassion , and help our relationships . What about going beyond the present moment? Yes, thinking about the future can trigger anxiety—but a growing body of research suggests that it can also make our lives more meaningful.

Humans aren’t alone in having some ability to consider the future, a process that scientists call “prospection.” After all, your dog gets excited when they see you holding a leash because they anticipate a walk is imminent; your cat may show similar excitement at the sound of a can being opened. There’s even evidence that some animals—like bonobos and ravens —can choose and save tools that they plan to use in the future.

But prospection’s unique benefits to humans extend beyond that of other animals. Not only do we fantasize about our next vacation or decide whether it would be better to take the stairs or the elevator, but our prospection can cast far into the future: We might save for our children’s education or plan for our retirement decades from now. We can make predictions about our own futures based on what we’ve learned about other people’s experiences and even from characters in books and movies. And we can consider multiple directions our futures might take.

It is this remarkable ability to simulate our possible futures that makes prospection special. Just like gold prospecting may literally make you rich, studies suggest that prospecting about your future can enrich your life in at least four ways.

1. Helps us make more prudent decisions

Perhaps one of the most fundamental and important functions of prospection is that it helps us decide how to act: Thinking about what the future likely holds helps us decide what course to take in the here-and-now. Several studies have examined how thinking about the future shapes our decision-making.

Researchers have been particularly interested in the psychology that drives our process of deciding between receiving something now versus receiving something of greater value later. In general, people tend to choose smaller but more immediate rewards over larger rewards that they have to wait for, a phenomenon known as “delay discounting.”

But they don’t always choose short-term rewards over long-run gains. For instance, studies have shown that present-day connection to a possible future event can counteract delay discounting. In one study from the United Kingdom, participants were told either to vividly imagine spending 35 pounds at a pub 180 days from now or to simply estimate what they thought could be purchased for 35 pounds. Participants in the former condition showed an increased willingness to wait for a larger future reward than the participants in the latter condition. In other words, visualizing a specific possible future counteracted the effects of delay discounting.

Another study showed that participants who felt closer to their future selves were more willing to wait for a larger reward than those who anticipated changing; the same was true when they were asked to make decisions on behalf of a fictional character who they knew would go through a life-changing event (like a religious conversion or returning home from war).

While interesting in its own right, this research could have important personal ramifications. If people could be made to feel a more immediate connection to their eventual retirement (and consequent drop in income), they may be more motivated to make prudent decisions.

In fact, one experiment found that manipulating how people think about the time until their retirement—in days rather than years—caused them to plan to start saving for retirement sooner, because the shift in time perspective made the participants feel more connected to their future selves. A 2014 study found that viewing realistic computer-generated images of what they may look like in the future decreased their discounting of future rewards and led them to contribute more to a hypothetical retirement account.

2. Motivates us to achieve our goals (if we do it right)

Prospection has another important application: It motivates us to achieve our goals. But the relationship here is not a simple one. Work by psychologist Gabriele Oettingen and colleagues shows that whether thinking about the future helps us actually reach our goals depends on how we think about the future.

In fact, research has found that positive thinking about our future can backfire . The more people positively fantasize about successfully reaching their goals, the less effort they actually put into realizing them. For example, in one study , the people who fantasized more about successfully losing weight actually lost less weight. Another study found that students who fantasized about their transition into a professional career were less successful in their job search and students who dreamed more about their crush were less likely to start a relationship with their crushee.

Importantly, both of these studies found the opposite effect for having positive expectations (“judging a desired future as likely”). People who expected to lose weight were more likely to actually lose weight; students who expected they would find a job were more likely to actually land one; and students who expected to enter a relationship with their crush were more likely to actually do so.

It makes sense that having positive expectations—optimism, essentially—could increase our ability to achieve our goals, but why might fantasizing about the future actually decrease the chance of achieving what we want? Because, write Oettingen and Klaus Michel Reininger, positive fantasies “lead people to mentally enjoy the desired future in the here and now, and thus curb investment and future success.”

But often our goals come from our fantasies. We want to excel at work, find Mr. or Mrs. Right, or run a marathon. How do we turn these fantasies into behaviors that can help us reach our goals? Research suggests that while optimism is important, it is also helpful to draw a contrast between our fantasies and our current reality, which allows us to see barriers that must be overcome.

For example, one study asked students to mentally contrast their positive fantasies about benefiting from a vocational training program with aspects of the program that could impede their progress. This reflection caused students who expected to do well in the program to commit themselves more, and those who expected to do poorly to commit themselves less—again pointing to the importance of optimistic expectations to success. But the mental contrasting was also key: Positive expectations did not increase commitment in participants who were not assigned to compare their present situation with their future desires.

Results from a later study suggest that the effectiveness of mental contrasting is due to “energization”—meaning that, when people have high expectations for succeeding at something, considering what might impede their goals gives them energy to try to overcome those barriers. In other words, it helps to stress yourself out a little bit.

Mental contrasting, particularly when used in conjunction with “implementation intentions”—making plans to help move past potential barriers—has been shown to help people reach their goals. To describe this process, Oettingen and colleagues use the acronym WOOP

: Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan. In studies, WOOP-type interventions have helped people break a bad snacking habit , get more exercise , and improve academic performance .

Thus, research suggests that thinking about the future can motivate us to take the steps necessary to reach our goals—but only if we take obstacles into account.

3. Improves psychological well-being

More on goal-setting.

Explore how to get better at achieving your goals .

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How to choose goals that make you come alive .

Besides helping us make decisions and reach our goals, there is evidence that prospection may improve psychological health more generally. It might even help people who are struggling with depression and those recovering from trauma.

Indeed, some researchers pose a link between poor prospection and certain psychological disorders such as depression.

“We see faulty prospection as a core underlying process that drives depression,” write psychologists Martin Seligman and Anne Marie Roepke in the book Homo Prospectus . In particular, they note that people with depression imagine possible futures that are more negative than people without depression. Moreover, people with depression tend to overestimate risk and to have more pessimistic beliefs about the future.

That might be why research suggests that targeting negative beliefs about the future can be helpful. Some techniques used in cognitive behavioral therapy, for example, involve correcting how people think about the future, and some studies have shown that cognitive behavioral therapy can improve prospection . There is a 10-week program called “Future Directed Therapy” that induces participants to spend less time dwelling on the past or on current struggles. Instead, they are asked to spend more time thinking about what they want from the future, while developing skills to reach those future goals. A nonrandomized pilot study found that patients with major depressive disorder who completed this intervention showed significant improvements in depression, anxiety, and quality of life compared to patients who completed standard cognitive behavioral therapy.

For people recovering from trauma, a 2018 study suggests that writing optimistically about the future—an intervention called prospective writing—might encourage post-traumatic growth (that is, positive psychological growth following a traumatic life event). In this study, adults who had recently experienced trauma were randomly assigned to a prospective writing intervention group, a factual writing control group, or a no-writing control. Throughout the study, those in the prospective writing group showed greater improvement in surveys measuring aspects of post-traumatic growth, including relationship quality, meaning in life, life satisfaction, gratitude, and religiosity-spirituality. The other two groups did not show the same progress.

There’s another technique that may help anyone improve their psychological health: “anticipatory savoring.” Taking time to simulate and enjoy a positive experience in advance—whether it be an upcoming meal, visit with friends, or vacation—can allow you to derive benefits for the experience twice. One 2018 study found that taking the opportunity to savor an upcoming experience actually heightened people’s enjoyment both during the unfolding of the experience and when remembering it later.

One way to engage in anticipatory savoring, suggested by Roepke and Seligman in a recent review article , is to modify the “three good things” gratitude exercise. Instead of writing three good things that happened today, you can write three good things you anticipate happening tomorrow and what you can do to make it more likely that those things actually happen. For people who are struggling, they suggest also writing down three methods that could be used to mitigate disappointment if the good things do not actually happen. These could include coping strategies (exercise, reaching out to a friend, etc.) or alternative strategies to making the good thing happen (e.g., if a friend canceled lunch, you could suggest lunch next week).

4. Makes us more kind and generous

How we think about the future doesn’t just influence our own lives. It can also influence how we treat other people.

In particular, picturing yourself helping someone in the future may make you more likely to actually do so. For instance, a 2018 study found that participants reported being more willing to help other people who needed help (such as a person who was locked out of their house or who lost their dog) if they had previously been asked to imagine helping a person in a similar scenario. People who were asked to imagine the helping scenario more vividly—by picturing the event occurring in a familiar location—were even more willing to help. One experiment even found that people who imagined helping actually gave more money to people in need when given the opportunity.

Another study found that when people think more broadly about the future consequences that could come from helping others, they might feel inspired to behave in more prosocial ways. In one experiment, researchers asked people who had volunteered for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts to imagine the meaning and consequences of their trip—or to think concretely about how they would be helping. Those who imagined the consequences of helping predicted that they would have a more rewarding trip than those who thought concretely about their actions. A second experiment replicated this finding: People predicted that giving money to someone they had never met would be more rewarding when they were asked to think about the more abstract meaning and consequences of their actions (e.g., how this decision fit in with their life’s past and future experience) than when they were asked to consider a more concrete perspective.

Could this abstract-versus-concrete effect have real-world consequences? The researchers think so:

We believe that our results suggest an intervention that could be used to prompt and sustain prosocial behavior. To the extent that people avoid or cease prosocial actions because of concrete costs, inviting people to construe those actions abstractly could help them persist at prosocial actions that have enduring personal and social benefits.

While there’s a lot left for researchers to discover about prospection, you don’t need to wait for their published studies. You can try your own experiments right now, to see if prospection helps you to live a more generous, happier, and more meaningful life.

About the Author

Summer Allen

Summer Allen, Ph.D. , is a Research/Writing Fellow with the Greater Good Science Center. A graduate of Carleton College and Brown University, Summer now writes for a variety of publications including weekly blog posts for the American Association for the Advancement of Science. She is also very active on twitter: follow her , or just reach out and say hello!

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Kids’ mental health is in crisis. Here’s what psychologists are doing to help

Research is focused on child and teen mental health, exploring why they are struggling and what can be done to help them

Vol. 54 No. 1 Print version: page 63

• Mental Health

[ This article is part of the 2023 Trends Report ]

The Covid -19 pandemic era ushered in a new set of challenges for youth in the United States, leading to a mental health crisis as declared by the United States surgeon general just over a year ago. But U.S. children and teens have been suffering for far longer.

In the 10 years leading up to the pandemic, feelings of persistent sadness and hopelessness—as well as suicidal thoughts and behaviors—increased by about 40% among young people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System .

“We’re seeing really high rates of suicide and depression, and this has been going on for a while,” said psychologist Kimberly Hoagwood, PhD, a professor of child and adolescent psychiatry at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine. “It certainly got worse during the pandemic.”

In addition to the social isolation and academic disruption nearly all children and teens faced, many also lost caregivers to Covid -19, had a parent lose their job, or were victims of physical or emotional abuse at home.

All these difficulties, on top of growing concerns about social media, mass violence, natural disasters, climate change, and political polarization—not to mention the normal ups and downs of childhood and adolescence—can feel insurmountable for those who work with kids.

“The idea of a ‘mental health crisis’ is really broad. For providers and parents, the term can be anxiety-provoking,” said Melissa Brymer, PhD, who directs terrorism and disaster programs at the UCLA–Duke University National Center for Child Traumatic Stress. “Part of our role is to highlight specific areas that are critical in this discussion.”

Across the field, psychologists are doing just that. In addition to studying the biological, social, and structural contributors to the current situation, they are developing and disseminating solutions to families, in schools, and at the state level. They’re exploring ways to improve clinical training and capacity and working to restructure policies to support the most vulnerable children and teens.

Psychologists were also behind new mental health recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a group of volunteer health professionals who evaluate evidence on various preventive health services. The task force now recommends regular anxiety screenings for youth ages 8 to 18 and regular depression screenings for adolescents ages 12 to 18.

“I see these trends in children’s mental health problems as being critical, but there are solutions,” Hoagwood said. “If we refocus our efforts toward those solutions, we could see some of these tides turn.”

Sources of stress

Across the United States, more than 200,000 children lost a parent or primary caregiver to Covid -19 (“ Covid -19 Orphanhood,” Imperial College London, 2022). In the face of those losses, families had to curtail mourning rituals and goodbye traditions because of social distancing requirements and other public health measures, Brymer said. Many children are still grieving, sometimes while facing added challenges such as moving to a different home or transferring to a new school with unfamiliar peers.

The CDC also reports that during the pandemic, 29% of U.S. high school students had a parent or caregiver who lost their job, 55% were emotionally abused by a parent or caregiver, and 11% were physically abused ( Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey—United States, January–June 2021 , CDC ).

“Schools are crucial for keeping kids safe and connecting them with services, but the pandemic completely disrupted those kinds of supports,” Brymer said.

Those extreme disruptions didn’t affect all young people equally. Echoing pre- Covid -19 trends, the CDC also found that girls, LGBTQ+ youth, and those who have experienced racism were more likely to have poor mental health during the pandemic, said social psychologist Kathleen Ethier, PhD, director of the CDC’s Division of Adolescent and School Health.

Contributing factors likely include stigma, discrimination, and online bullying, Ethier said. Female students also report much higher levels of sexual violence than their male peers, which can further harm mental health.

As much hardship as Covid -19 wrought, it’s far from the only factor contributing to the current crisis. Biology also appears to play a role. The age of puberty has been dropping for decades, especially in girls, likely leading to difficulty processing complex feelings and knowing what to do about them ( Eckert-Lind, C., et al., JAMA Pediatrics , Vol. 174, No. 4, 2020 ). In early puberty, regions of the brain linked to emotions and social behavior are developing more quickly than regions responsible for the cognitive control of behavior, such as the prefrontal cortex, Ethier said.

Those developmental changes drive young people to seek attention and approval from their peers . For some, using social media fulfills that need in a healthy way, providing opportunities for connection and validation to youth who may be isolated from peers, geographically or otherwise.

For others, negative messages—including online bullying and unrealistic standards around physical appearance—appear to have a detrimental effect, but more research is needed to understand who is most at risk.

“There is clearly some aspect of young people’s online life that’s contributing [to the mental health crisis], we just don’t know exactly what that is,” said Ethier.

Finally, structural factors that affect millions of U.S. children, including poverty, food insecurity, homelessness, and lack of access to health care and educational opportunities, can lead to stress-response patterns that are known to underlie mental health challenges.

“Even in very young children, prolonged stress can trigger a cycle of emotion-regulation problems, which can in turn lead to anxiety, depression, and behavioral difficulties,” Hoagwood said. “These things are well established, but we’re not doing enough as a field to address them.”

Building capacity in schools

The biggest challenge facing mental health care providers right now, experts say, is a shortage of providers trained to meet the mounting needs of children and adolescents.

“There’s a growing recognition that mental health is just as important as physical health in young people’s development, but that’s happening just as mental health services are under extreme strain,” said clinical psychologist Robin Gurwitch, PhD, a professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University Medical Center.

Schools, for example, are a key way to reach and help children—but a 2022 Pew Research Center survey found that only about half of U.S. public schools offer mental health assessments and even fewer offer treatment services. Psychologists are now ramping up efforts to better equip schools to support student well-being onsite.

Much of that work involves changing policies at the school or district level to provide more support for all students. For example, school connectedness—the degree to which young people feel that adults and peers at school care about them and are invested in their success—is a key contributor to mental health. Youth who felt connected during middle and high school have fewer problems with substance use, mental health, suicidality, and risky sexual behavior as adults ( Steiner, R. J., et al., Pediatrics , Vol. 144, No. 1, 2019 ).

Through its What Works in Schools program , the CDC funds school districts to make changes that research shows foster school connectedness. Those include improving classroom management, implementing service-learning programs for students in their communities, bringing mentors from the community into schools, and making schools safer and more supportive for LGBTQ+ students.

Psychologists are also building training programs to help teachers and other school staff create supportive classrooms and aid students who are in distress. Classroom Wise (Well-Being Information and Strategies for Educators), developed by the Mental Health Technology Transfer Center Network and the University of Maryland’s National Center for School Mental Health (NCSMH), is a free, flexible online course and resource library that draws on psychological research on social-emotional learning, behavioral regulation, mental health literacy, trauma, and more ( Evidence-Based Components of Classroom Wise (PDF, 205KB), NCSMH, 2021 ).

“We’re using evidence-based practices from child and adolescent mental health but making these strategies readily available for teachers to apply in the classroom,” said clinical psychologist Nancy Lever, PhD, codirector of NCSMH, who helped develop Classroom Wise .

The course incorporates the voices of students and educators and teaches actionable strategies such as how to create rules and routines that make classrooms feel safe and how to model emotional self-regulation. The strategies can be used by anyone who interacts with students, from teachers and administrators to school nurses, coaches, and bus drivers.

“What we need is to build capacity through all of the systems that are part of children’s lives—in families, in schools, in the education of everybody who interacts with children,” said psychologist Ann Masten, PhD, a professor of child development at the University of Minnesota.

Other training efforts focus on the students themselves. Given that preteens and teenagers tend to seek support from their peers before turning to adults, the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) created conversation cards to equip kids with basic skills for talking about suicide. The advice, available in English and Spanish, includes how to ask about suicidal thoughts, how to listen without judgment, and when to seek guidance from an adult ( Talking About Suicide With Friends and Peers, NCTSN, 2021 ).

While training people across the school population to spot and address mental health concerns can help reduce the strain on mental health professionals, there will always be a subset of students who need more specialized support.

Telehealth, nearly ubiquitous these days, is one of the best ways to do that. In South Carolina, psychologist Regan Stewart, PhD, and her colleagues colaunched the Telehealth Outreach Program at the Medical University of South Carolina in 2015. Today, nearly every school in the state has telehealth equipment (Wi-Fi and tablets or laptops that kids can use at school or take home) and access to providers (psychology and social work graduate students and clinicians trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy). Students who need services, which are free thanks to grant funding or covered by Medicaid, meet one-on-one with their clinician during the school day or after hours ( American Psychologist , Vol. 75, No. 8, 2020 ).

“We learned a lot about the use of technology during the pandemic,” Ethier said. “At this point, it’s very much a matter of having sufficient resources so more school districts can access those sources of care.”

Expanding the workforce

Limited resources are leaving families low on options, with some young people making multiple trips to the emergency room for mental health-related concerns or spending more than six months on a waiting list for mental health support. That points to a need for more trained emergency responders and psychiatric beds, psychologists say, but also for better upstream screening and prevention to reduce the need for intensive care.

“Just as we need more capacity for psychiatric emergencies in kids, we also need an infusion of knowledge and ordinary strategies to support mental health on the positive side,” Masten said.

In New York, Hoagwood helped launch the state-funded Evidence Based Treatment Dissemination Center in 2006, which offers free training on evidence-based practices for trauma, behavioral and attention problems, anxiety, depression, and more to all mental health professionals who work with children in state-licensed programs, which include foster care, juvenile justice, and school settings, among others. The center provides training on a core set of tools known as PracticeWise ( Chorpita, B. F., & Daleiden E. L., Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology , Vol. 77, No. 3, 2009 ). It also offers tailored training based on requests from community agency leaders and clinicians who provide services to children and their families.

Hoagwood, in collaboration with a consortium of family advocates, state officials, and researchers, also helped build and test a state-approved training model and credentialing program for family and youth peer advocates. The peer advocate programs help expand the mental health workforce while giving families access to peers who have similar lived experience ( Psychiatric Services , Vol. 71, No. 5, 2020).

Youth peer advocates are young adults who have personal experience with systems such as foster care, juvenile justice, or state psychiatric care. They work within care teams to provide basic education and emotional support to other youth, such as giving advice on what questions to ask a new mental health practitioner and explaining the differences between psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers. Youth peer advocates in New York can now receive college credit for their training in peer specialist work.

“Making community health work into a viable career can also increase diversity among mental health workers and help us address structural racism,” Hoagwood said.

Pediatricians are another group that can provide a first line of defense, drawing on their relationships with parents to destigmatize mental health care.

“Pediatricians are in many ways uniquely positioned to help address the mental health crisis in youth,” said Janine A. Rethy, MD, MPH, division chief of community pediatrics at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and an associate professor of pediatrics at Georgetown University School of Medicine. “We have the privilege of building long-term relationships with children and their families over many years,” with at least 12 well-child checkups in just the first three years of a child’s life, followed by annual visits.

During these visits, they can watch for warning signs of social and behavioral problems and screen for maternal depression and other issues in parents, which is now recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (PDF, 660KB) . Several new resources provide guidance for integrating mental health care into pediatric practices, including the Behavioral Health Integration Compendium (PDF, 4.1MB) and the Healthy Steps program . But most pediatricians need more education on mental health issues in order to effectively respond, Rethy said—yet another area where psychologists may be able to help. Psychologists can provide direct consultations and training to pediatricians through the Pediatric Mental Health Care Access program.

“The more we can weave mental health knowledge, capacity, and checkpoints into places where parents feel comfortable—like the doctor’s office and at school—the better,” Masten said. “All professionals who work with young people really need the knowledge that’s being generated by psychologists.”

11 emerging trends for 2023

Scientists reach a wider audience

Psychologists take aim at misinformation

Psychological research becomes more inclusive

EDI roles expand

Worker well-being is in demand

Efforts to improve childrens’ mental health increase

Partnerships accelerate progress

Suicide prevention gets a new lifeline

Some faculty exit academia

Venture capitalists shift focus

Psychologists rebrand the field

Further reading

Science shows how to protect kids’ mental health, but it’s being ignored Prinstein, M., & Ethier, K. A., Scientific American , 2022

How pediatricians can help mitigate the mental health crisis Rethy, J. A., & Chawla, E. M., Contemporary Pediatrics , 2022

Review: Structural racism, children’s mental health service systems, and recommendations for policy and practice change Alvarez, K., et al., Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry , 2022

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Guest Essay

Do Politicians Realize How Difficult and Rare Immigrating to the U.S. Legally Actually Is?

By Jorge Loweree

Mr. Loweree is the managing director of programs and strategy at the American Immigration Council.

During the Republican National Convention, speakers repeatedly tried to draw a contrast between asylum seekers who’ve crossed the southern border in recent years and immigrants who’ve entered the country through other channels. As Vivek Ramaswamy put it, legal immigrants like his parents “deserve the opportunity to secure a better life for your children in America.” Others deserve deportation, “because you broke the law.”

Elected leaders like to invoke this narrative that there’s an easy, “right” and a hard, “wrong” way to immigrate to the United States, because it makes the solution for fixing our broken immigration system seem simple. We just need more law-abiding people to get in the right line.

But the reality that is all too clear to immigrants navigating our byzantine system, and the lawyers and advocates who try to help them, is that there is no line to get into for a vast majority of people who wish to come to the United States. If the government is serious about securing the border, we have to make it easier for people to come through legal channels.

The U.S. admits a tiny fraction of people who want to immigrate

Number of people who said they want to immigrate or who legally applied, compared to those granted permanent residence

158 million people would like to immigrate to the U.S.

32 million people actually began the application process in 2021

family members

Only 900,000 people were allowed to enter legally

Sources: Gallup, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Note: Data was originally compiled in “ Why Legal Immigration Is Nearly Impossible ” by David Bier for the Cato Institute. The number of people who would like to immigrate is taken from a 2018 Gallup poll.

Our system of legal immigration isn’t set up to reward “good” choices. It is littered with arbitrary caps, bureaucratic delays and redundant processes that wring years of effort and money out of the precious few who qualify.

The current system is largely designed to favor those who have family ties here: namely, spouses, parents and adult children who are U.S. citizens and spouses and children of lawful permanent residents.

For some countries, the wait time to get a family-based visa stretches into centuries

Estimated wait time for family-sponsored visas in capped categories as of 2021

Visa for an unmarried adult child

Philippines

Married adult child

Sibling of adult citizens

YEARS TO PROCESS

All other countries

Sources: U.S. State Department, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Note: Data was originally compiled in “ Why Legal Immigration Is Nearly Impossible ” by David Bier for the Cato Institute. “All other countries” represents the average.

The green card approval rate is at a historic low point

Share of legal immigrants that were approved for permanent residency

GREEN CARD APPROVAL RATE

Until the 1920s, almost anyone could arrive in the U.S. and be granted permanent residency.

Rates rose during the 1960s when Congress added new visa categories and exceptions to allow more people to immigrate.

They fell in the 1980s after the creation of the green card lottery, as many more people began applying.

Sources: U.S. Department of State, U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service

Note: Data was originally compiled in “ Why Legal Immigration Is Nearly Impossible ” by David Bier for the Cato Institute.

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South Korea's 'study culture' is infamous — and it's putting pressure on students in Australia too

It's an industry that emerged from a parental ambition to provide the best education for one's kids.

Private tutoring services are booming in Australia — valued at an estimated $1 billion and 4,000 businesses in operation — with Asian migrant communities from China, India, Vietnam and South Korea forming the bulk of their clients.

Korean Australians have told the ABC that the prevalence of tutoring shows the value of education in Korean culture, but they also describe a toxic mix of competitive overwork, damaging pressure on students to perform and on educators to guarantee success.

Peter Son, whose parents migrated from South Korea, attended tutoring services and achieved an almost-perfect university entrance score of 99.90 when he graduated high school in 2006.

"My brother actually got a really high score, he got 99.75, and so my mum kind of whispered in my ear gently, 'Hey son, you can do better than that.'"

Mr Son said there was self-imposed pressure and expectations to "do it for the family" because the Korean community could be "image-centric".

"You have to have good marks, to go into a good university, to get a good job, to find a good partner and all those things."

Mr Son now runs the S2P Connect tutoring school based in Sydney's west, which he said was focused on soft skills — not just academic results.

"Essentially I got into this tutoring business because I saw a bit of a gap in terms of what tutoring companies are doing," he said.

"The marks obsession in tutoring is taking a pretty detrimental toll on a lot of students and their families."

A $1 billion industry

Tutoring services are very common among first-generation migrants said Christina Ho, an associate professor at UTS, who researches Asian migrant parents' approaches to education.

"Korea is quite famous for that really competitive education system. In the past, the Korean government conducted raids on tutoring centres at night to force them to close," Dr Ho said.

"The study culture is really intense in Korea, and then as Korean migrants come to Australia I guess they're feeling the same kind of pressure."

Almost 103,000 people identified as being of Korean ancestry at the 2021 census.

"They're newcomers in a place where it's not their native language, they're trying to get ahead,"  Dr Ho said.

"They fuel each other's anxieties and sense of competition about it."

A potent combination of ambition and anxiety means big business.

The estimated value of the industry is between $900,000 and $1.5 billion, according to the Australian Tutoring Association — a peak body for tutoring businesses across Australia.

Daniel Kwuen graduated high school in 2022 and is now in the second year of an actuarial studies and finance degree at UNSW — a course requiring an ATAR above 98.

Mr Kwuen, who attended tutoring services throughout his schooling, said while the situation among the Korean Australian community wasn't as extreme as that in South Korea, "there is an extent it carries on".

"For these Korean tutoring centres [in Australia], often it tends to be the case that class might start at 5pm and is supposed to finish at 8pm, but it might carry on to 8.30-9pm and tutors will ask [students] to get on when they get home online, or come back in on another day," he said.

"In a way, it's good, because they don't do it for money. They don't ask for [more] money. They care about you, I think. The culture is a bit like that."

Mohan Dhall, who is chief executive of the Australian Tutoring Association and an education lecturer at UTS, said high school graduates who had achieved a high ATAR in year 12 were often attracted to working in the industry.

"The problem is: the way they learn is different to kids who have needs. We're seeing an increasing number of students who have needs or are vulnerable and who need to build resilience," he said.

"That can fuel greater anxiety, it can add to a kid feeling isolated, and it can actually amplify the mental stress on kids which can lead to self-harm."

Sang Hee Kim works at public primary school in Sydney and moonlights as a tutor at a major coaching college on Saturdays.

Ms Kim, who did not want her real name published for fear of professional backlash, said the style of education delivered by tutoring businesses was drastically different to that in mainstream Australian education.

"It's very fast-paced, so it can be quite stressful," she said of her tutoring work.

"Especially because I have a young class, they really struggle with some of the content that's in the learning material."

That 'teachers are human' is forgotten

Intense pressure on teachers from parents, including bullying, has driven many teachers to suicide in South Korea, the ABC recently reported .

Many Korean dramas, which are popular across the Korean diaspora and Asian communities more broadly, deal with the challenges of the country's hyper-competitive education system.

One of the most-watched series in Korean TV history, Sky Castle, depicts the cut-throat nature of entry to the country's top universities.

Netflix describes Sky Castle as following elite parents for whom "their children's success means everything".

Tutoring also featured in Bong Joon-ho's Oscar-winning 2019 film Parasite .

There's an "obsession with trying to get the best marks", which often manifested in "bullying behaviour", Mr Son said.

"Teachers are human, ultimately, but in a very hyper-capitalist world like Korea that may sometimes be forgotten."

In an era where parents can contact teachers virtually 24/7, this can put immense pressure on both students and teachers in the public school education system.

In 2019, eight in 10 Australian teachers reported having experienced some form of bullying or harassment from parents or students over the previous 12 months.

'Shonky practices' and 'exploitation' of new migrants

Private tutoring services are often prohibitively expensive.

Migrant families, many of whom are not wealthy, make immense sacrifices to fund their children's out-of-school coaching.

"Fees typically range between around about $600 a term at the very lowest end, up to $2,000-$3,000 a term," said Mr Dhall from the Australian Tutoring Association.

"It can be an investment of up to $10,000 a year. For some students, they go to multiple classes, so it could be upwards of $20,000 families are spending a year."

And a lack of regulation and official oversight of the industry means there are concerns over inadequate child protection standards.

"We would like a system of licensing that allows spot checks on tutors unannounced," Mr Dhall said.

"Those spot checks would include how many kids are in a class and whether it's even safe to egress from a facility if there's a fire because the rooms are too crowded."

Dr Ho said that given the industry remained self-regulated, it was time for the government to regulate it and help parents make informed decisions about tutoring.

"There's been documented examples of shonky practices going on out there and quite exploitative given we're targeting first-generation migrants a lot of the time, who may not have great English, may not understand their legal rights," she said.

The federal Department of Education did not respond directly to the ABC's inquiry about whether it would consider pushing for the industry to be regulated.

"The decision to engage a tutor is a matter for an individual student, their parents and/or carers. Parents should exercise judgement and due diligence when considering employing a tutor," a spokesperson said.

"Tutoring provides support for students to supplement the education they receive in school from qualified, registered teachers."

A spokesperson for the NSW Department of Education said: "Private tutoring does not benefit students preparing for the selective high school or opportunity class entry tests.

"The re-designed tests are harder to prepare for and assess students' problem-solving and thinking skills."

A bright future for tutoring

Despite concerns about student and educator wellbeing from industry stakeholders, demand for tutoring shows no signs of slowing.

"Tutoring is a great industry," said Mr Son of S2P Connect.

"There's a lot of opportunities and potential, perhaps for public-private partnerships. I know tutoring as an industry is not favourably looked upon by many public school teachers because of that taboo aspect that it's cheating.

"I would liken it to a personal trainer at the gym … critiquing on form and the accountability — all those sorts of things go a long way.

"Of course, like the health industry, there's a lot of misinformation and fearmongering."

Dr Ho said Korean migrants, like other East Asian migrant communities, were generally skilled migrants with high levels of education.

"Their faith in education is strong because, I guess, it worked for them," she said. 

"They were able to immigrate to Australia based on the fact that they've got these qualifications, so they're really committed to education."

Asked if she would recommend tutoring for children in her own family, Ms Kim said she would be keen on the idea — but would not like to see students forced to do it against their will.

Mr Kwuen also said that when he has children, they will likely be enrolled in private tutoring.

"I do think maths tutoring, English tutoring and possibly science, as the years get higher, is definitely crucial because it did help my marks a lot," he said.

Mr Kwuen said he wanted to provide the opportunity for his children to excel academically so they could have more career options in life.

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• Mental Health
• Multiculturalism
• North Strathfield

How to cite ChatGPT

Use discount code STYLEBLOG15 for 15% off APA Style print products with free shipping in the United States.

We, the APA Style team, are not robots. We can all pass a CAPTCHA test , and we know our roles in a Turing test . And, like so many nonrobot human beings this year, we’ve spent a fair amount of time reading, learning, and thinking about issues related to large language models, artificial intelligence (AI), AI-generated text, and specifically ChatGPT . We’ve also been gathering opinions and feedback about the use and citation of ChatGPT. Thank you to everyone who has contributed and shared ideas, opinions, research, and feedback.

In this post, I discuss situations where students and researchers use ChatGPT to create text and to facilitate their research, not to write the full text of their paper or manuscript. We know instructors have differing opinions about how or even whether students should use ChatGPT, and we’ll be continuing to collect feedback about instructor and student questions. As always, defer to instructor guidelines when writing student papers. For more about guidelines and policies about student and author use of ChatGPT, see the last section of this post.

Quoting or reproducing the text created by ChatGPT in your paper

If you’ve used ChatGPT or other AI tools in your research, describe how you used the tool in your Method section or in a comparable section of your paper. For literature reviews or other types of essays or response or reaction papers, you might describe how you used the tool in your introduction. In your text, provide the prompt you used and then any portion of the relevant text that was generated in response.

Unfortunately, the results of a ChatGPT “chat” are not retrievable by other readers, and although nonretrievable data or quotations in APA Style papers are usually cited as personal communications , with ChatGPT-generated text there is no person communicating. Quoting ChatGPT’s text from a chat session is therefore more like sharing an algorithm’s output; thus, credit the author of the algorithm with a reference list entry and the corresponding in-text citation.

When prompted with “Is the left brain right brain divide real or a metaphor?” the ChatGPT-generated text indicated that although the two brain hemispheres are somewhat specialized, “the notation that people can be characterized as ‘left-brained’ or ‘right-brained’ is considered to be an oversimplification and a popular myth” (OpenAI, 2023).

OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat

You may also put the full text of long responses from ChatGPT in an appendix of your paper or in online supplemental materials, so readers have access to the exact text that was generated. It is particularly important to document the exact text created because ChatGPT will generate a unique response in each chat session, even if given the same prompt. If you create appendices or supplemental materials, remember that each should be called out at least once in the body of your APA Style paper.

When given a follow-up prompt of “What is a more accurate representation?” the ChatGPT-generated text indicated that “different brain regions work together to support various cognitive processes” and “the functional specialization of different regions can change in response to experience and environmental factors” (OpenAI, 2023; see Appendix A for the full transcript).

Creating a reference to ChatGPT or other AI models and software

The in-text citations and references above are adapted from the reference template for software in Section 10.10 of the Publication Manual (American Psychological Association, 2020, Chapter 10). Although here we focus on ChatGPT, because these guidelines are based on the software template, they can be adapted to note the use of other large language models (e.g., Bard), algorithms, and similar software.

The reference and in-text citations for ChatGPT are formatted as follows:

• Parenthetical citation: (OpenAI, 2023)
• Narrative citation: OpenAI (2023)

Let’s break that reference down and look at the four elements (author, date, title, and source):

Author: The author of the model is OpenAI.

Date: The date is the year of the version you used. Following the template in Section 10.10, you need to include only the year, not the exact date. The version number provides the specific date information a reader might need.

Title: The name of the model is “ChatGPT,” so that serves as the title and is italicized in your reference, as shown in the template. Although OpenAI labels unique iterations (i.e., ChatGPT-3, ChatGPT-4), they are using “ChatGPT” as the general name of the model, with updates identified with version numbers.

The version number is included after the title in parentheses. The format for the version number in ChatGPT references includes the date because that is how OpenAI is labeling the versions. Different large language models or software might use different version numbering; use the version number in the format the author or publisher provides, which may be a numbering system (e.g., Version 2.0) or other methods.

Bracketed text is used in references for additional descriptions when they are needed to help a reader understand what’s being cited. References for a number of common sources, such as journal articles and books, do not include bracketed descriptions, but things outside of the typical peer-reviewed system often do. In the case of a reference for ChatGPT, provide the descriptor “Large language model” in square brackets. OpenAI describes ChatGPT-4 as a “large multimodal model,” so that description may be provided instead if you are using ChatGPT-4. Later versions and software or models from other companies may need different descriptions, based on how the publishers describe the model. The goal of the bracketed text is to briefly describe the kind of model to your reader.

Source: When the publisher name and the author name are the same, do not repeat the publisher name in the source element of the reference, and move directly to the URL. This is the case for ChatGPT. The URL for ChatGPT is https://chat.openai.com/chat . For other models or products for which you may create a reference, use the URL that links as directly as possible to the source (i.e., the page where you can access the model, not the publisher’s homepage).

Other questions about citing ChatGPT

You may have noticed the confidence with which ChatGPT described the ideas of brain lateralization and how the brain operates, without citing any sources. I asked for a list of sources to support those claims and ChatGPT provided five references—four of which I was able to find online. The fifth does not seem to be a real article; the digital object identifier given for that reference belongs to a different article, and I was not able to find any article with the authors, date, title, and source details that ChatGPT provided. Authors using ChatGPT or similar AI tools for research should consider making this scrutiny of the primary sources a standard process. If the sources are real, accurate, and relevant, it may be better to read those original sources to learn from that research and paraphrase or quote from those articles, as applicable, than to use the model’s interpretation of them.

We’ve also received a number of other questions about ChatGPT. Should students be allowed to use it? What guidelines should instructors create for students using AI? Does using AI-generated text constitute plagiarism? Should authors who use ChatGPT credit ChatGPT or OpenAI in their byline? What are the copyright implications ?

On these questions, researchers, editors, instructors, and others are actively debating and creating parameters and guidelines. Many of you have sent us feedback, and we encourage you to continue to do so in the comments below. We will also study the policies and procedures being established by instructors, publishers, and academic institutions, with a goal of creating guidelines that reflect the many real-world applications of AI-generated text.

For questions about manuscript byline credit, plagiarism, and related ChatGPT and AI topics, the APA Style team is seeking the recommendations of APA Journals editors. APA Style guidelines based on those recommendations will be posted on this blog and on the APA Style site later this year.

Update: APA Journals has published policies on the use of generative AI in scholarly materials .

We, the APA Style team humans, appreciate your patience as we navigate these unique challenges and new ways of thinking about how authors, researchers, and students learn, write, and work with new technologies.

American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000

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