My I.Q. was 156, I graduated as valedictorian of my high school class and with honors in college, but I never reached my original goal of obtaining a physics Ph.D. Laboratories were too silent for me. I love to talk and have always thoroughly enjoyed people. Teaching girls to enjoy science is challenging and fun, and combines my love of science with my love of kids.
Elizabeth Dabrowski, Chemistry Teacher at
Magnificat Girls’ Catholic High School

I always loved music. I’d get chills and tears in my eyes—even when I was three or four years old. I had visceral reactions to music. These images have never left me. When I wake up in the morning, I can’t believe this is my life. I feel so lucky. What I love to do the most has become my profession.
Pamela Frank
Internationally Acclaimed Solo Violinist

I believe one person can make a difference, and public service gives me the opportunity to give back something to this country that has given my family so much. I’m extraordinarily patriotic because I know what this country has done for my family, and I know we are just one of millions of people that would agree. Shelley Berkley U.S. Congresswoman from Nevada

"Challenge," "contribution," and "creativity" were the three words most frequently used to describe why our successful women chose their careers. Most indicated a passion about what they were doing and truly loved their work. There were women in all careers who voiced some dissatisfactions. Although some women were motivated to pursue their career from childhood, most identified their career direction in high school or college.

BALANCE PASSION WITH REASON

Consider the values you want to derive from your career. Be realistic in balancing your love of the work with availability of jobs, financial remuneration, time commitment, and its fit with your family and relationship goals. Don't feel committed to one career direction too early. College and life will give you opportunities for exploration and change. Don't be too quick to leave something you really love. There is wisdom in passionately loving your work, but despite your passion, you may not be able to achieve success, because some careers are simply too competitive. You may have to discover a passion for a new career and cope with leaving your first passion to others.

©2001 by Sylvia B. Rimm.  All rights reserved.  This publication, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the author.

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