It is important to keep in mind that you’re likely to be working for the majority of your adult life. For that reason, you must get satisfaction and enjoyment from your job and consider your career options carefully. A high salary and impressive job title does not necessarily mean that you’ll feel satisfied at work. Many people want to do a job they enjoy and make a positive difference to the lives of others. According to research, feeling that your work contributes to a good cause is one of the most important factors for job satisfaction. With this in mind, here are some of the top careers that you can make a difference in:

Teacher
Teaching is considering an extremely rewarding career as you’ll have the opportunity to pass on your skills and knowledge and inspire the next generation of learners. Teachers can have a significant impact on the lives of their students and they also have the unique opportunity to change education for the better. Education is considered to be key in improving society and teachers are responsible for being good role models to their students. Teachers can specialise in specific subjects and choose to work within a wide range of settings including primary schools, secondary schools, and colleges. This allows qualified teachers to find a rewarding role that suits their particular skills and interests. To become a teacher, you must usually complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and then achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Students interested in pursuing a career in education can gain valuable teaching experience by volunteering at schools or working as a teaching assistant.

Live-in Carer
Becoming a professional carer can offer a highly rewarding career for someone looking for a job that helps others. Live-in carers have a hugely positive impact on the lives of others by enabling people to remain living independently in their own homes. As people get older, they often struggle to carry out their usual daily tasks safely and efficiently. Traditionally, elderly people would move into residential homes when they became unable to continue living independently at home. However, a live-in carer provides elderly people with the option to remain in their own home for longer. A carer supports patients with daily tasks including cooking, cleaning, and medication management. They also provide a valuable source of companionship and give families peace of mind that their loved one is receiving the care and support they need. According to a live-in carer at Helping Hands – “There is a very serious and responsible element to looking after another individual, especially an adult. I have learnt to live in the moment; to be happy no matter what, and to collect memories not things.” If you are interested in becoming a live-in carer, the you will need to complete an accredited training course and gain some relevant experience before applying for roles.

Nurse
Nurses are expertly trained medical professionals who help people in a significant way. They are responsible for treating a wide range of illnesses and diseases, and have the unique opportunity to save lives daily.. Many nurses report getting a great sense of satisfaction from seeing a seriously ill patient return to full health, or from providing people with comfort during their time of need. Nursing is a highly respected field and qualified nurses benefit from an attractive salary, job security, and great career advancement opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities within nursing are expected to grow by 12% by 2028. This is far higher than the average across all other occupations, meaning that the job outlook for nurses is extremely good. To become a qualified nurse, you must typically complete a degree in nursing and become registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Police officer
Police officers help keep communities safe by protecting the public from criminal activity. The role of a police officer is diverse but may involve – responding to emergencies, administering first aid, interviewing suspects and victims of crime, investigating crimes, and giving evidence in court. Police officers have the opportunity to act as a positive role model and help offenders make better life choices. There are several different routes to enter the police force. One of the most popular options is to apply directly to policing academies and complete their recruitment process. This typically involves a combination of training and examinations including a physical exam. Alternatively, you can apply for a police graduate scheme and be fast-tracked to more senior positions within the police force.