When I grow up I want to be a doctor... or lawyer... or actress...or supermodel! A common statement you may have heard when you were younger was: "When I grow up...". Now a lot of you are probably at the age where you're actually narrowing down careers choices, classes, and universities.

Here are a few brief things to remember when choosing your university and preparing for your future career:

1) You can always change your mind
Life isn't as short as it seems. You can always go back to get a new degree or training if you change your mind on your career. Even when you're 80 you can go back and get a new degree!

2) The best career isn't the one that makes you the most money Go with that makes you happy, and what makes you feel like you are doing what you have always wanted to do. As tempting as it is... don't choose on the JUST basis of salary!

3) Do what YOU want
Don't let others influence your options. It may seem tough to do, but don't go to a school just because your friends are! Don't choose a career just because your family wants you to! Don't be afraid to break away from family traditions to follow your chosen career.

4) Check out ALL your options
Make sure you look into all your interests before settling on one career choice! This will save you the trouble of switching later on in life.

5) Research and narrow down your options carefully
Take the time to research in depth your desired careers. You may learn something about it that makes the career undesirable or impossible for you and then change your mind.

6) Look at the statistics
Realize that "glamour careers" (actress, singer, famous artist, model, etc.) are in high demand and only a very tiny percentage of the world population are actually any of these. If you are dedicated towards a "glamour career" you should know that you must work 200% harder than your peers and have no doubts in your mind about becoming what you want.

7) Have a back up plan
When you were younger it seemed like you WOULD become an actress. Now that you're getting older you're most likely realizing that things may not work out as planned. Pick at least one career that you would equally enjoy, and keep it in mind for later on.

8) Talk to friends/family members/workers/etc. that have your ideal career
Talking to those who actually live your dream is perhaps the most effective way to learn what it is actually like. Also, many businesses have internships and appointments that you can make to learn more about their offered careers, by talking to their employees.

9) Don't feel rushed
If everyone around you has a set career in place, and you're a highschool senior still deciding... don't fret! It can take people up to YEARS to determine what they would like to do. It's not big deal if you're a little late in deciding! Just make sure you're not missing your desired university or school application deadlines. Apply to all schools that offer courses in your interests, and then decide which path to choose when you are accepted.

10) Enjoy the process!
Choosing your future career should be fun! Don't get stressed or upset when you're having a difficult time choosing, or when you're unsure. Things work out in time. Enjoy that fact that you get to choose, look at the decision process as a positive thing, and a fun advancement in your life!