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Choosing a career in an unfamiliar field can be challenging.

A lack of understanding can discourage people from pursuing certain careers.

Exploring unfamiliar fields and learning from trusted networks help people make informed decisions.

Co-authored by Lena Wang, Haiying Kang, Joe Jiang and March To

Choosing a career is not easy; it involves a complex psychological process. People need to figure out their interests, strengths, and skills, and consider how they see themselves in the future (e.g., future work selves), while at times also trying to meet family and social expectations.

Career decisions could be even more challenging when it comes to unfamiliar fields. Without direct exposure, people often lack a clear understanding of what the work actually involves, the skills required, or the day-to-day realities of the role.

In the absence of reliable information, decisions could be shaped by assumptions, stereotypes, or incomplete narratives. As a result, many people may prematurely rule out entire career paths—not because they are unsuitable, but because they are misunderstood. In doing so, they may miss opportunities that could turn out to be well-suited to them and highly rewarding.

Careers in unfamiliar context

Research shows that nursing students hesitate to enter the profession because they have limited first-hand knowledge of what a nursing career actually involves. Exposure to heavy workloads, emotional demands, and workplace challenges during clinical placements often reveals a reality that differs from........

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