Ever feel like you can't get enough knowledge? If your mind is constantly looking for a new challenge perhaps you need to give it one--and get paid to do so.
In almost every field there is at least one profession particularly suited to those who are inquisitive by nature. Although some of the occupations profiled below may require you to obtain additional training or education to qualify, don't worry! Learning the necessary skills should be a piece of cake for your sponge-like brain!
Education - Share Your Mind with Youth
What could be more fun than sharing your passion for knowledge with young, impressionable minds? Whether you're teaching preschoolers about how plants grow or exploring the complexities of Shakespeare with high school students, your active brain will surely be challenged on a daily basis.
* High School Teacher - Teenagers could really benefit from your enthusiasm for learning. Outlook: Teachers are always in demand, and median starting pay was close to $32,000 in 2004, the most recent year for which BLS statistics are available.
* Training: A bachelor's degree in the subject you teach is usually required. Certification regulations vary by state, so do your homework to find out what training you'll need.
Healthcare - Put Your Brain to the Test
As researchers continue to make discoveries about our bodies and develop treatments for diseases, individuals in the healthcare profession must constantly keep up to date on the latest innovations. With a talent and interest for acquiring knowledge, you could feel right at home in this field.
* Medical Laboratory Technologist - Quench your thirst for information by working with complex medical testing equipment. Outlook: An overabundance of jobs should make finding employment as a lab technologist a snap. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported median earnings of over $45,000.
* Training: A degree in life sciences, or a combination of specialized education and on-the-job training.
Legal - Law as a Living Practice
The field of law has a lot to offer the lifelong learner: intricate cases, complex language, and plenty of precedents to research. If your cerebrum (or schedule) can't commit to the years of training required to be a full-fledged lawyer, no problem. With an associate's or even a certificate you could qualify for some jobs.
* Paralegal - Get the enjoyment of doing almost everything a lawyer does--without having to go through law school and the bar exam! Outlook: BLS projects employment in this occupation to grow 27% or more over the next 7 years, and the median earnings of a paralegal were almost $40,000 in 2004.
* Training: An associate's degree or certificate in paralegal studies can qualify you for this position.
Technology - Get in on the Cutting Edge
A little curiosity goes a long way in this industry. In fact, many of the big names in the business began with a great idea and taught themselves the rest. Use them as inspiration to harness your own inquisitive nature. Who knows where it could lead you!
* Computer Software Engineer - Put your engineering and computer science skills to the test as you design and evaluate software in this challenging profession. Outlook: This is projected to be one of the fastest growing occupations through 2014, so expect to be in hot demand once you've earned that degree.
* Training: Get your bachelor's degree in computer science and software development
Business - A Demand for Quick Thinkers
Without demand there can be no supply, and who better to keep up with the whims of the masses than someone with a knack for research? Whether it's studying a specific population demographic or coming up with catchy advertising slogans, the field of business can always use bright minds, and with the right career training you could be one of them.
* Marketing analyst - Will it sell? That's the question marketing analysts answer, by studying data on prices, sales, and marketing techniques. Outlook: BLS predicts faster than average growth for employment in this field over the next 7 years, with median earnings of $56,140 recorded in 2004.
* Training: You'll need at least a bachelor's degree for most of the jobs in this profession, but get your MBA and you'll be even better prepared to do this exciting work.
Inquiring Minds Want to Earn
Use your inquisitive nature to your advantage as you search for a profession. That same trait that may have driven your parents crazy once upon a time is a powerful tool that you can use to make them proud. Focus your mental powers on career training and in a few years you could be reaping the rewards, both economically and professionally, of your cerebral talents
