A recent study through LinkedIn found that 74% of job candidates want to find a career where they can feel like their work matters. Although some people assume everyone’s only in it for the money, the truth seems to be quite different - even across generational gaps.
When asked whether workers prefer purpose over income and titles, 48% of boomers, 38% of Generation X’ers, and 30% of Millennials said “yes”. Clearly, making a difference is a major consideration for job seekers of all ages. So whether you’re far along in your career or currently browsing the job market, let’s take a look at some meaningful MS careers and how a college degree could be the best way to get there.
Turning tragedy into positivity
At times, the people with the biggest hearts have had the hardest experiences. There’s something about going through a difficult time that can motivate someone to make a difference in the world. A former C2C graduate, Beci Teasley is proof of how tragedy can be transformed into positivity. After losing her children and mother in a horrific car accident, she felt the need to be a force for good in the world. She returned to school and is currently completing her degree in order to become a clinical counselor to help with mental illness and adolescence.
Choosing between money and meaning
There’s a common misconception that people have to decide between a job that makes a difference and one that pays well. While it’s true that some people who strive to find meaningful work might end up making less than if they would’ve focused solely on earning money, that doesn’t mean you can’t earn a good living while having a career that makes a difference. In fact, some of the most impactful jobs, such as healthcare workers and teachers, get paid a middle-class wage or higher in Mississippi.
Unique traits of change-makers
If you have a strong desire to change the world for the better, you probably have a special set of traits that are valuable to any employer - even those outside of what you might consider “altruistic fields. Here are some unique skills of aspiring change-makers:
- Dedication - While other employees might always be looking for the next biggest paycheck, employers know you’re in it for the long run when the cause speaks to you.
- Out-of-the-box thinking - You’re capable of thinking outside of the confines of traditional limits. You have a big-picture perspective that leads you to creative conclusions.
- Problem solvers - With a deep desire to help and make a difference, you’re able to develop innovative solutions to problems both simple and complex.
Industries that make a difference
If you desire to make a change for good in the world, you don’t have to cure cancer or solve world hunger. There are several industries with meaningful roles where you can have a positive impact on the world on a daily basis. Here are a few meaningful fields that you might want to consider along with some job possibilities:
* jobs from Collegexpress
As you can see, there are many jobs that have a positive impact on the world. You don’t have to make it to the top of your field to make a difference. There are several entry-level and mid-level positions that put you in a position to have an impact and earn a good living.
Getting a degree is your first step
In a world where knowledge gives you so many advantages, getting a degree can help put you in a position to make a difference. While an open heart and a willing spirit are key ingredients, returning to school for an associate or bachelor’s degree can make it easier to land a position that has an impact in your local community or beyond. Community colleges and universities throughout Mississippi offer degrees in meaningful fields to help launch students into careers that contribute to a bigger cause while still paying well.
C2C is here to help
The Complete 2 Compete program is designed to help Mississippi adults return to school to finish their degrees. Whether you’re looking to enter into a new line of work or advance in your current field, the C2C program has guidance and financial support to help you turn that dream into a reality. Here are some highlights of the program:
- C2C Coach - All participants receive one-on-one support from dedicated coaches who will guide returning students through every step of the process from enrollment to graduation.
- University Studies Degree - This diploma can help Mississippi adults make the most of the coursework they completed in the past.
- C2C Grant - You can receive financial support to help cover the cost of your college degree.
Speak with a C2C representative today to see how close you are to graduation.