From Purpose to Passion: My First 4 Months as a Careers Information, Advice & Guidance Officer

Four months ago, I took a leap.

After over a decade in law and criminal justice – as a paralegal and then a probation officer – I felt misaligned. The work had meaning, but the spark had dimmed. What remained was a quiet whisper: “This isn’t it anymore.”

I didn’t know what came next, only how I wanted to feel – purposeful, people-focused, and fulfilled. That clarity led me here, into a new role as a Careers Information, Advice, and Guidance Officer in a busy sixth form college.

The Power of a Fresh Start

Since starting, I’ve been on a learning journey – mastering new systems, completing training, taking part in the Manchester UCAS fair, helping organise a university event attended by 2.5k students, and navigating inspections and accreditations like Ofsted and Matrix.

But above all, I’ve reconnected with my strengths. I’m using what comes naturally – empathy, coaching conversations, practical support – to empower others. And it energises me daily.

Advice If You’re Feeling Stuck

If you’re feeling stuck or unfulfilled in your current job, you’re not alone – and you’re not without options. Here's what helped me:

>Know your strengths – What energises you? What do others come to you for? Identify what’s right with you before rushing to “fix” what’s wrong.

>Explore without pressure – Attend events, shadow someone, or chat with those in roles you’re curious about. You don’t have to jump – just start exploring.

>Transfer your skills – Everything you’ve done before can serve your next chapter. My legal and justice background now adds value to the advice I give students.

>Embrace discomfort – Change can be scary. But it can also be the space where transformation happens.

>Fulfilment matters – Life’s too short to stay in a job that drains you. It’s okay to want more – and to go after it.

Looking Ahead

This new chapter is more than a job; it’s a reminder that reinvention is possible at any stage. My story isn’t special – it’s just proof that with self-trust and action, change is possible.

If you're craving purpose, consider what aligns with who you are – not just what you’ve done. Your future may just be waiting on the other side of one brave step.

"Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life."