Choosing a career path

[AceDeuce]

Dear Coaches/Trainers/Fitness Professionals,

This writing is a request for assistance. I am at fork in the road on my career path. I’m 22 years old and will graduate college in December. For the last few years I have been excitedly learning everything I can about weight training and nutrition. I chose to pursue mainly nutrition in my undergraduate studies at Central Michigan University, as a Dietetics major, but as I near graduation I’m unsure of whether I want to pursue further education in sports nutrition or go the route of strength training and become a strength and conditioning (S & C) coach. I’m inspired by the thought of someday interning and working with coaches and like-minded people like you. All I seem to think or read about these days is related to weightlifting, nutrition, athletics, athletic development, body composition, and so forth. These are my passions. What I’m not clear about is how to discern my next best steps—specifically related to formal education (even though I realize most education is outside of the classroom).

I’m hoping you might be willing to offer some insight or suggestions regarding:

1. How I might clarify my passion and/or next steps? (I realize that it doesn’t necessarily have to be strength training OR nutrition, but having a narrower goal would help in choosing where to pursue a masters degree, and with what focus.)

2. What is the best formal education path once I determine which route to take? For example, if I choose the S & C route, would a masters in Kinesiology with a concentration in exercise science or biomechanics (or something else) be the best route? If I choose further nutrition education, what degree(s) would put me in the best position to give nutrition guidance in an athletic type environment? (I definitely don’t want to be a clinical dietitian.)

3. Are there any masters degree programs or other educational or training opportunities or internships you especially recommend?

I greatly appreciate any guidance, tips, or helpful resources you might be willing to offer or point me toward. If you prefer to talk by phone let me know.

Thank you!

Sincerely,

Shane Dowd

[Higher Endeavors]

Looking at the questions you have they are all asking for personal guidance in deciding what you should do with your life. In my opinion you need to spend some time deciding what your passions are. Ask yourself what you would want to do if money wasn't an issue. If you have the desire to help high school athletes improve their performance that would require a certain path. If you are more interested in working with the general population trying to improve their daily lives that could have different ramifications.

I would address your first question and once you feel comfortable with that answer your path should open up to you. Asking others to help you pick a path could potentially lead to frustration and disappointment. You need to feel confident enough to make your own decisions regarding your passions. Once you have determined what your passions and desires are then you can ask the opinions of others to best fulfill your ambitions.

Even though this isn't really a direct answer I think this is the best solution to your questions.

[AceDeuce]

I've come to realize my passion lies in strength training and athletics. Nutrition is interesting to me, but secondary. Basically I want to be doing what Eric Cressey, Mike Boyle, Joe Defranco, Alwyn Cosgrove, etc are doing. THAT really excites me. What kind of formal education (masters in Kinesiology maybe?) AND more importantly experience opportunities will put me in the best place to accomplish this? How does one go about finding coaches to intern with? I already read as much as I can because it's damn interesting to me, but what other steps would you advise I take? Much appreciated!

-Shane