5 Surprising Career Paths You’ve Never Considered Before

Happiness AbdulLast Updated: April 2, 2023

Are you feeling stuck in your current career and looking for something new and exciting? Have you exhausted all the typical job options and are now searching for something different? Look no further! In this article, we will introduce you to five surprising career paths that you may have never considered before. These surprising career paths might just be the change you’ve been looking for. So, get ready to think outside the box and discover some intriguing and surprising career paths that could be the perfect fit for you.

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5 Surprising Career Paths You’ve Never Considered Before

Below are surprising career paths that will get you excited:

1: Ethical hacker

One of these surprising career paths is Ethical hacker. An ethical hacker is someone who is hired to test the security of a company’s computer systems, networks, and software applications. In other words, they are paid to hack into their client’s systems to identify and fix vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious hackers. Ethical hackers are in high demand due to the increasing number of cyber attacks worldwide.

If you have a passion for technology and enjoy solving complex problems, a career as an ethical hacker may be a great fit for you. However, it’s important to note that becoming an ethical hacker requires a high level of technical expertise and knowledge of programming languages such as Python, C++, and Java.

To get started in this career path, you may need to earn certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP). Additionally, you may want to consider obtaining a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field.

In terms of salary, ethical hackers can earn an average of $80,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on their experience and qualifications.

2: User experience (UX) designer

One of these surprising career paths is user experience (UX) designer. User experience (UX) designers are responsible for creating intuitive and engaging digital experiences for users. They work closely with developers, marketers, and other stakeholders to design websites, mobile apps, and other digital products that meet the needs of users.

If you have a creative mindset and enjoy solving problems, a career as a UX designer may be a great fit for you. However, it’s important to note that becoming a UX designer requires a combination of technical and soft skills. For example, you will need to have knowledge of design software such as Sketch or Figma, as well as an understanding of user research and prototyping.

To get started in this career path, you may want to consider obtaining a bachelor’s degree in design, human-computer interaction, or a related field. Additionally, you may want to build a portfolio of your design work to showcase your skills to potential employers.

In terms of salary, UX designers can earn an average of $70,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on their experience and qualifications.

3: Hydrologist

One of these surprising career paths is Hydrologist. Hydrologists are scientists who study the movement, distribution, and quality of water on Earth. They are responsible for analyzing water data, conducting field surveys, and developing solutions to water-related problems such as droughts, floods, and pollution.

If you have a passion for science and enjoy working outdoors, a career as a hydrologist may be a great fit for you. However, it’s important to note that becoming a hydrologist requires a strong background in science and math. For example, you will need to have knowledge of geology, chemistry, and physics, as well as experience with data analysis and modeling.

To get started in this career path, you may need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in hydrology, geology, or a related field. Additionally, you may want to consider obtaining a master’s degree or PhD to advance your career and increase your earning potential.

In terms of salary, hydrologists can earn an average of $80,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on their experience and qualifications.

4: Wildlife biologist

One of these surprising career paths is Wildlife biologist. Wildlife biologists are scientists who study the behavior, habitat, and population of animals in the wild. They are responsible for conducting field research, collecting data, and developing conservation strategies to protect endangered species.

If you have a passion for animals and enjoy working outdoors, a career as a wildlife biologist may be a great fit for you. However, it’s important to note that becoming a wildlife biologist requires a strong background in biology and ecology. For example, you will need to have knowledge of animal behavior, genetics, and conservation biology, as well as experience with field research and data collection.

To get started in this career path, you may need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, ecology, or a related field. Additionally, you may want to consider obtaining a master’s degree or PhD to advance your career and increase your earning potential.

In terms of salary, wildlife biologists can earn an average of $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on their experience and qualifications.

5: Medical illustrator

One of these surprising career paths is Medical illustrator. Medical illustrators are people who create visual representations of the human body and its functions. They work closely with healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators to develop illustrations for textbooks, medical journals, and patient education materials.

If you have a passion for art and an interest in science, a career as a medical illustrator may be a great fit for you. However, it’s important to note that becoming a medical illustrator requires a combination of artistic and scientific skills. For example, you will need to have knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, as well as experience with digital illustration software such as Adobe Illustrator or Procreate.

To get started in this career path, you may need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in medical illustration, art, or a related field. Additionally, you may want to consider building a portfolio of your artwork to showcase your skills to potential employers.

In terms of salary, medical illustrators can earn an average of $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on their experience and qualifications.

Why these career paths are worth considering

These career paths are worth considering because they offer unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. Each career path requires a combination of technical and soft skills, making them challenging and rewarding at the same time. Additionally, these career paths are in high demand, meaning that there are plenty of job opportunities available for qualified candidates.

How to get started

To get started in any of these career paths, it’s important to do your research and determine which path is right for you. You may want to consider obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a related field, as well as earning any necessary certifications or licenses. Additionally, building a strong network and gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work can help you stand out to potential employers.

Resources for exploring these career paths further

There are many resources available for exploring these career paths further. This resources are available to help explore these surprising career paths.

Ethical Hacking: Check out resources such as HackerRank, Pentester Academy, and Cybrary for more information on becoming an ethical hacker.
User Experience Design: Look into resources such as UX Design, Nielsen Norman Group, and UX Mastery for more information on becoming a UX designer.
Hydrology: Check out resources such as the American Water Resources Association, the National Hydrologic Warning Council, and the American Geophysical Union for more information on becoming a hydrologist.
Wildlife Biology: Look into resources such as the Wildlife Society, the American Society of Mammalogists, and the Society for Conservation Biology for more information on becoming a wildlife biologist.
Medical Illustration: Check out resources such as the Association of Medical Illustrators, the Guild of Natural Science Illustrators, and the Journal of Bio-communication for more information on becoming a medical illustrator.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 5 surprising career paths offer unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you have a passion for technology, art, or science, there is a career path out there that can help you achieve your goals. By doing your research, gaining practical experience, and building a strong network, you can take the first steps towards a fulfilling and rewarding career.

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