Maybe this, maybe that, I like this, I like that and so forth. As an indecisive 17 year-old, the idea of limiting myself to a single career pathway seemed like the most ridiculous idea. 

Nonetheless, leaving school was an exhilarating time. Suddenly I found myself taking the reins on my life, free to make decisions in my own time about what I wanted to do and how I wanted to do it. With this newfound freedom I fumbled around for a year before finding my footing in the field of scientific research. The next few years I immersed myself into my studies, overwhelmed but fascinated by the wealth of knowledge I was being inundated with. But as my first degree drew to a close I became increasingly restless and began searching for my next endeavour. 

In some ways it was the restlessness along with curiosity and a couple of emotive television advertisements that landed me on the steps of Defence Force Recruiting and soon after on a bus en route to Army recruit training. Since joining the Army, I’ve undergone an incredibly steep learning curve. 

I distinctly recall shaking like a leaf the first time I was handed a rifle, not knowing how to support its weight, let alone fire it. 

Fast forward two years and my training had given me the skills to strategically plan and execute a mission, commanding a platoon of soldiers in the field. Through these experiences I’ve become a more resilient person, able to adapt and maintain focus during times of adversity. Following completion of my training, I was posted up to Darwin as a Lieutenant. Of all the occupations I discussed with my careers counsellor, this certainly wasn’t one of them. 

Up until then I’d kept my civilian studies separate to my work in the Army. However, approaching the end of my time in Darwin I was given the opportunity to merge the two and commence training to become an Army doctor. I’m very excited to see where my new role will take me. 

Upon reflection I am ironically grateful to my 17-year-old self for being indecisive, keeping all options open and not ruling out even the most unexpected career pathways. 

So my message to those who are struggling to decide on what they want to do after high school, is that it’s okay to not have it all figured out. If you keep an open mind, opportunities will present themselves. Don’t be afraid to take those opportunities, no matter how unexpected. 

Live by the saying: “If it excites you a lot, and scares you a little, then you should probably do it.” 

Vivian Xu