Linda @ The Cents of Money
As college students consider their future career paths, they may be overwhelmed by the vast array of options. While certain professions like medicine, law, and engineering are commonly known, there are many lesser-known career paths for students that may be lucrative. These paths can be rewarding, with six-figure salaries on average, offering unique opportunities for individuals to explore their passions and positively impact the world.
1. Geotechnical Engineering
Geotechnical engineers study the behavior of earth materials, which are soil, rocks, and underground water, and design structures like tunnels, dams, and buildings that can withstand geological hazards. This field requires a strong background in math and physics and offers opportunities to work on challenging projects in construction, mining, and environmental remediation. According to Indeed, the average base salary for geotechnical engineers is $84,175.
2. Technical Writing
Technical writers create manuals, user guides, and online help systems for various products, from software to medical devices. They work closely with engineers and subject matter experts to translate complex technical concepts into clear and concise language. This field requires excellent writing skills, attention to detail, and learning new technologies quickly. The average salary for a technical writer is $63,441 annually in the United States and a $1,800 cash bonus per year, but it can go up to a six-figure salary.
3. User Experience (UX) Design
UX designers create the look, feel, and functionality of digital products, such as websites and mobile apps. The user experience designer makes an average salary of $104,116 annually in the United States. They research to understand user needs and behaviors and use this information to design interfaces that are intuitive and user-friendly. This field requires a combination of design skills, psychology, and technology.
4. Data Science
Data scientists use statistical and computational methods to analyze large datasets and extract insights that can inform business decisions. They work in various industries, such as healthcare, finance, and marketing, and use machine learning and artificial intelligence to make predictions and recommendations. This lucrative field requires programming skills, math and statistics knowledge, and domain expertise. The average annual salary for data scientists is $124,957, according to Indeed.
5. Technical Sales
Technical salespeople use their knowledge of engineering or technology to sell products and services to customers. They work closely with clients to understand their needs and requirements and demonstrate how their company’s products can meet those needs. This field requires excellent communication and negotiation skills, as well as a strong understanding of the technical aspects of the products being sold. A technical sales manager can make an average of $85,788, up to $140,000 annually.
6. Bioinformatics
Bioinformatics is the application of computational and statistical techniques to biological data, such as DNA sequences and protein structures. Bioinformaticians work on projects such as drug discovery, genetic mapping, and personalized medicine. This field requires strong skills in programming, biology, and statistics. According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for someone specializing in bioinformatics is $87,932.
7. Sports Analytics
Sports analytics involves data analysis and statistical modeling to improve team performance, player evaluation, and fan engagement. Sports analysts work with coaches, front offices, and media outlets to provide insights and predictions based on data. This field requires sports knowledge, programming skills, and statistical expertise. According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for someone in sports analytics is $117,822, though it can vary significantly.
8. Environmental Science
Environmental scientists study the natural world and its interactions with human activity. They work on projects such as environmental impact assessments, pollution control, and climate change mitigation. This field requires a strong background in biology, chemistry, and earth science, as well as a passion for sustainability and conservation. They earn annual salaries of $78,144, on average.
9. Geospatial Science
Geospatial science involves the analysis and interpretation of geographic data. Geospatial professionals work in various fields, such as urban planning, natural resource management, and emergency management. The average salary for geospatial scientists is $73,807, according to Indeed. This field requires knowledge of geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and data analysis.
10. Aviation Management
Aviation management involves the planning, organizing, and directing of airline and airport operations. Aviation professionals manage airport staff, oversee aircraft maintenance and repairs, and ensure safety regulations compliance. This field requires skills in aviation regulations, budgeting, and leadership. According to Glassdoor, the estimated total pay for Aviation management is $114,292 annually in the United States.
Source: Reddit.
12 Best College Life Hacks That Are Life-Changing
Image Credit: Adobe Stock
Balancing academics, social life, and personal responsibilities in college can be a difficult juggling act. Fortunately, numerous life-changing college life hacks can help you navigate these challenges and maximize your college experience. Whether a first-year student or heading into senior year, these tips can help you streamline your workflow, save time and money, and achieve your goals.
10 Affordable Hobbies You Can Pick Up in College That Could Fill Your Pocket Too
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos
College is an exciting time full of new experiences and opportunities, but it can be financially challenging. Finding time and room for hobbies and interests in your budget can be difficult between tuition, textbooks, and living expenses. However, having a hobby can be a great way to relax, unwind, and enrich your college experience. The good news is that plenty of affordable hobbies you can pick up in college won’t break the bank and potentially earn some money as a side gig.
17 Excessively Weird Gen Z Trends We Find Challenging To Understand
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos
Every generation has its distinction despite overlapping with other generations. The young of all ages act feisty and aggressive compared to their parents and grandparents, who have more life experiences than their underlings in their teens and 20s. However, Generation Z, having been raised in a digital world since they were in diapers, is shaping their culture in ways that appear excessively weird to the rest of us and challenging to understand.
College Graduates: Avoid These 13 Common Money Mistakes in Your 20s and Beyond
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos
Congratulations on graduating college and landing your first job! It’s an exciting and scary new chapter all rolled into one. You’ll make some serious money for the first time in your life, but you’ll also be responsible for some adult-sized bills.
Before signing a lease for an apartment or purchasing a new car, avoid the most common money mistakes college graduates make. We have assembled a list of blunders to steer you towards a financially fit future.
10 Things Millennials and Gen Z Surprisingly Copied From Boomers
Image Photo: Shutterstock
How we live, dress, and interact with the world constantly evolves. Each generation brings its unique perspectives and preferences, yet there are times when younger generations find inspiration in the habits and choices of their predecessors. Millennials and Gen Z, known for their distinct characteristics, have surprisingly borrowed a few things from the Baby Boomer generation.
Hi There!
With a passion for investing and personal finance, I began The Cents of Money to help and teach others. My experience as an equity analyst, professor, and mom provide me with unique insights about money and wealth creation and a desire to share with you.