How to Use Your Degree in a Non-Traditional Career Path

Your Guide to Thinking Outside the Box

So, you’ve got your degree, but the traditional career path just doesn’t feel right for you. Maybe you studied biology but dream of working in marketing, or you have a degree in literature but want to explore tech. The good news? Your degree is more versatile than you think! Here’s how to use your education in a non-traditional career path—and thrive while doing it.

1. Recognize the Value of Your Degree

Your degree isn’t just about the specific subject you studied—it’s about the skills and knowledge you gained along the way.

Identify Transferable Skills

Think about the skills you developed, like critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, or project management.
Example: “My history degree taught me how to research and analyze information, which is useful in consulting.”

Highlight Your Unique Perspective

Your background can bring a fresh perspective to a new field.
Example: “My psychology degree helps me understand customer behavior in my marketing role.”

2. Explore Your Interests

If you’re considering a non-traditional career, start by exploring what excites you.

Take Online Courses or Certifications

Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning can help you build skills in a new area.
Example: “I took a digital marketing course to transition from my biology degree.”

Volunteer or Intern

Gain hands-on experience in your desired field, even if it’s unpaid.
Example: “I volunteered at a nonprofit to gain experience in event planning.”

Talk to People in the Field

Reach out to professionals working in the career you’re interested in and ask for advice.
Example: “I connected with a graphic designer on LinkedIn and learned about their career path.”

3. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

When applying for non-traditional roles, focus on how your skills and experiences align with the job.

Emphasize Transferable Skills

Highlight skills from your degree that are relevant to the new role.
Example: “I used my communication skills from my English degree to write compelling marketing copy.”

Showcase Relevant Experience

Include internships, volunteer work, or projects that demonstrate your interest and skills in the new field.
Example: “I included my freelance writing projects to show my experience in content creation.”

Write a Strong Cover Letter

Explain why you’re passionate about the new field and how your background makes you a great fit.
Example: “I wrote about how my biology degree helps me analyze data for my role in market research.”

4. Network Strategically

Building connections in your desired field can open doors to non-traditional opportunities.

Attend Industry Events

Go to conferences, workshops, or networking events to meet professionals in the field.
Example: “I attended a tech conference and met someone who offered me an internship.”

Join Professional Organizations

Many industries have organizations or clubs that welcome newcomers.
Example: “I joined the American Marketing Association to learn more about the field.”

Leverage LinkedIn

Connect with professionals, join groups, and share content related to your new career interests.
Example: “I started posting about my interest in UX design and connected with designers in the field.”

5. Consider Further Education (If Needed)

Sometimes, a non-traditional career path might require additional training or certifications.

Pursue a Graduate Degree

A master’s degree in a new field can help you make the transition.
Example: “I got a master’s in public health after my biology degree to work in healthcare policy.”

Get Certified

Certifications can help you gain credibility in a new field.
Example: “I earned a project management certification to transition into a PM role.”

Take Short Courses

Many universities and online platforms offer short courses to help you build specific skills.
Example: “I took a coding bootcamp to transition into a tech role.”

6. Be Open to Entry-Level Roles

Starting in a non-traditional field might mean taking an entry-level position, and that’s okay!

Gain Experience

Use entry-level roles to build your skills and network.
Example: “I started as a marketing assistant and worked my way up to a content strategist role.”

Be Patient

It might take time to transition fully, but every step counts.
Example: “I worked in customer service while building my portfolio for a design career.”

7. Tell Your Story

When pursuing a non-traditional career, your story is your superpower. Be ready to explain why you’re making the switch.

Be Honest and Passionate

Share why you’re excited about the new field and how your background adds value.
Example: “I explained how my literature degree helps me craft compelling stories for my PR role.”

Show Your Commitment

Highlight the steps you’ve taken to prepare for the new career.
Example: “I talked about the online courses I took and the projects I completed to transition into UX design.”

8. Stay Curious and Keep Learning

A non-traditional career path is a journey, not a destination. Stay curious and keep building your skills.

Follow Industry Trends

Stay updated on trends and developments in your new field.
Example: “I read blogs and listen to podcasts about digital marketing to stay informed.”

Seek Feedback

Ask for feedback from mentors, colleagues, or supervisors to keep improving.
Example: “I asked my manager for feedback on my presentations to improve my communication skills.”

Final Thoughts

Your degree doesn’t have to limit you to a traditional career path. With the right mindset, skills, and strategy, you can use your education to explore new and exciting opportunities. Whether you’re pivoting to a completely different field or blending your expertise in a unique way, the possibilities are endless.

So, take a deep breath, trust your abilities, and go after the career that truly excites you. You’ve got this! 🌟