We often find ourselves having to decide on our careers as early as 16-18 years old. Without significant life experiences, we are tasked with choosing a path that will determine the course of our lives. This pressure to select a career path exists, whether we attend university or not.

I believe this is a challenging decision to make. Furthermore, we typically base our choices on preconceived notions without truly understanding the essence of the career.

In my opinion, it’s not the career itself that’s crucial; it’s the reason behind choosing it. The younger we are, the closer we are to our unique essence, and we are more in tune with our individuality. If we are fortunate enough to recognize our uniqueness, it can be an asset in any profession.

Let’s consider someone with a talent for drawing or a passion for creating things with a pen. They decide to become an architect, assuming that architects spend their days drawing. Later, they realize that drawing is only a small part of what makes a great architect. However, they can still use their drawing skills as a valuable tool to communicate with colleagues and clients. They could have also used this talent to become a painter or a taxi driver who memorizes routes. Being adept at drawing implies an ability to pay attention to details and memorize them, which could have been an asset in a variety of careers, even as a meticulous surgeon. The key factor here is the art of paying attention to detail, which can lead to success in any chosen career.

I became an architect primarily because it was an available option for me, and I thought it seemed cool. Society’s image of architects as intelligent and elegant further piqued my interest. I delved into this world without a clear understanding of what it truly meant to be an architect. I only gained insights into the profession not during my years at university, but after working in the industry. I consider myself fortunate because I’ve always had a strong inclination toward philosophical thinking, contemplating life, society, and the world. I harbored a deep interest in imagining an ideal world. This love for philosophy has been the lens through which I approach architecture, consistently pondering the potential of each project, the possibilities, and its role in shaping cities and filling societal gaps.

I believe I could have harnessed the same potential in any career I pursued.

My point and advice for the younger generation are not to fixate on choosing a specific career path, university, or job application. Instead, focus on understanding yourself better. Identify your unique strengths and discover what truly brings you joy. Once you recognize your unique talents, you can leverage them in any path you choose.