How engrossed are you in your smartphone? How many minutes/hours do you spend staring at a screen daily? If you’re like most people, the answer is “a lot.”
The ubiquity of technology has made it an integral part of our lives—including our careers. The days when a career in technology meant being a computer nerd who was hidden away in a dark basement are long gone. Today, technology is everywhere, and so are opportunities for tech-savvy students. So, whether you want to hit it big with the next big app or are interested in a more behind-the-scenes role, there’s a place for you in the world of technology.
One of the great things about a career in technology is that there are so many options. So, let’s check your options based on your interests.
- Cybersecurity Analyst
With the rise of cybercrime, there’s never been a better time to enter the field of cybersecurity. Cybersecurity analysts work to prevent cyberattacks and protect computer networks. If you’re the go-to person for your friends every time their oh-so-precious Instagram gets hacked, you might be the secret recipe of the perfect cybersecurity analyst.
But this isn’t a career for the faint of heart—cybersecurity analysts need to be able to think like a hacker if they want to stay ahead. If you’re wondering what it takes to enter the field, it’s as simple as enrolling in an online masters cybersecurity program.
Online learning proves highly beneficial for those planning to work alongside pursuing advanced degrees.
- Animator
Do you enjoy spending your time crafting detailed drawings or animations? If you have a passion for creative arts, you might want to consider a career in animation.
Animation started with hand-drawn images, but today most animators use computer software and tablets to create their work. You could work as an animator in the film, television, or video games domain. You might even choose to become a freelance animator and work on various projects.
And if you’re wondering what’s the scope for animators, think of this – Disney hired more than 70 animators for their film Frozen.
- UX Designer
Do you like finding ways to make things more user-friendly? If so, you’re naturally programmed for a career in UX design.
UX (user experience) designers ensure products are easy to use and enjoyable. They work closely with programmers and designers to create products like websites, apps, and computer systems.
An advantage here is the growth of digital products. As more and more companies move their products online, the demand for UX designers will only continue to grow.
- Data Analyst
Are you a whiz with numbers? Do you love finding patterns in data? Well, that’s a job for a data analyst.
Data analysts collect and analyze data to help companies make better decisions. They use their findings to improve products, solve problems, and create new opportunities.
Data analysts must have strong math skills and use specialized software like Excel and SQL. If you’re interested in a data analyst career, consider pursuing a degree in mathematics or computer science. Plus, always remain updated with the latest trends.
- Software Developer
Puzzle-solving? Check. Coding? Check. A love for all things tech? Double check. If that sounds like you, get a computer science degree and become a software developer.
Software developers create the apps, websites, and systems we use daily. They turn ideas into code that can be used to create anything from the next big social media app to life-saving medical equipment.
And the great thing about becoming a software developer is that you can work anywhere in the world—all you need is a computer and an internet connection. In addition, there are various opportunities, from startups to tech giants, so you can choose the environment that suits you best.
- SEO Specialist
If becoming an SEO specialist is on your list of all things great in life, you’re in luck.
Search engine optimization involves optimizing websites to rank higher in search engine results. As an SEO specialist, you’ll help businesses improve their online visibility and get more traffic to their website.
You’ll need strong analytical and writing skills to be successful in this role. And it’s also helpful to have a marketing or web development background. With all the areas to specialize in, from technical SEO to link building, you’ll never be bored. And, you’ll never be out of work – businesses will always require expertise to improve their ranking.
- Social Media Manager
It’s time to monetize that social media addiction of yours. How? By becoming an SMM.
A social media manager creates and manages a company’s social media presence. It includes creating content, monitoring posts, and engaging with followers.
It’s a fast-paced and ever-changing field, so you’ll need to be proactive and adaptable. Likewise, you must have a strong understanding of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You must know how Meta Tags work, how to use Google Analytics, and what SEO is. The demand for SMMs will only grow as businesses increasingly turn to social media for marketing and customer service.
- Computer Hardware Engineer
Skillful hands always come in handy. If taking things apart, dissecting them, and putting them back together is a passion, follow it to become a computer hardware engineer.
Computer hardware engineers create and test the physical components of computers, like circuit boards and routers. They work with computer scientists, software developers, and engineers to create new technologies. However, you’ll need impressive problem-solving skills and a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering to be successful in this role.
- Computer Network Architect
Everything revolves around the internet these days. If you want to be at the center of it all, consider a career as a computer network architect.
Computer network architects design, build, and manage data communication networks, like the internet. They also oversee the installation and operation of these networks. The industries that need computer network architects the most are healthcare, finance, and government. However, you could also work in a school or a large corporation.
The prerequisite for this career is a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. But, if you want to advance to management positions, you’ll need a master’s degree.
Wrapping Up
So, what do you think? Do you feel you have what it takes to pursue these career paths? If nothing on the list interested you, no worries, it wasn’t an exhaustive list. There are many other great options for tech-savvy students. The most important thing is to find something you’re passionate about that you can see yourself doing for years to come.