During the past 6 months I've been struggling to decide what I really want to do with my life--specifically after graduation (T-14 months, give or take). I went into advertising thinking it would be THE perfect fit. Since taking my classes, I've discovered that my true passions lie elsewhere. Where that elsewhere is, I cannot say. But, today I had an inspiring thought. Actually, I've had this thought several times: pursue a career in health promotion. When I moved to Provo last August, I knew creating and living a balanced lifestyle would be a potential struggle. I had heard of kids moving away and then going crazy with their newfound freedom. I, however, did my very best to stay disciplined, trying hard to never let my social life or academics override the other. I also have done my best to consistently exercise and eat healthy. I'm certainly not a professional in the areas of nutrition or fitness, but I am consciously aware of the benbefits such principles bring if implemented properly.
One of the main reasons I'm attracted to exercise and wellness/health promotion is because I want a job that will allow me to help others. While advertising certianly communicates, I still feel ethically confused by my ability to persuade others to purchase products they don't need. This last year I have gained a strong testimony of the blessings that come from living a balanced lifestye; I have also experienced the frustration and sorrow that come from letting good habits--like exercise, nutrition and stress management--fall to the wayside. Because of these personal interactions with health and wellness, I want to help others discover the same lessons. I believe my background in communications will help me tremendously in delivering that message; therefore, my three-year pursuit in mass communications won't have been in vain after all. At least I hope that will be the case. 
I apologize for trying to sell this idea. After all, the above entry merely represents what has been on my mind recently. Today I looked at graduate programs and one that intrigues is Arizona State University's MIS degree. I'll continue to research, but for now, this satisfies the void I have felt in trying to discover what I really want to be when I grow up. If any of you have suggestions, please, share. My mind is totally open at this point.
YAY! Every person needs to go into Health promotion! I recommend BYU's MS in Health Promotion, or MPH. And, my personal choice, UNLV's M.Ed. in Health Promotion (where I will probably be in a few months.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your thoughts. No suggestions, just agreement. Good luck!
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