A full-time job can open up exciting possibilities. It can lead to connections and exposure to situations that he will never encounter otherwise. Talk about what he enjoys, and help him investigate what jobs might be a good fit for him. Suggest that he try one out, for the experience. He might discover he likes it.

Explore with him why he wants to study philosophy on the graduate level. If he truly has a passion for this field and has a plan to earn an advanced degree, conduct research and teach at the collegiate level, then it might be better to be supportive of his career aspirations.

Trudy Steinfeld, executive director, Wasserman Center for Career Development, New York University

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