When I was 16, I thought I had to choose one path and stick with it forever. It felt like choosing a train route I couldn’t get off. If you’re worried because what you loved last year doesn’t feel right anymore, take a deep breath. You’re not lost. You’re just preparing for a pivot—a change in direction that can be exciting, even if it feels scary now.
I joined the Army at 16 as a Combat Medical Technician, which means I was trained to give emergency care in tough situations. I was eager to learn, but I didn’t think I would ever change careers. I went to Afghanistan at 19 and Iraq at 20.
After this, I decided I wanted a new challenge. At 23, I left a secure job to start university. It was a huge shift! I began by studying Archaeological and Forensic Science. This is a mix of studying the past through ancient objects and using science to help solve modern crimes. Later, I moved into a master’s in forensic and Biological Anthropology.
What does that mean? Forensic and biological anthropology is the study of human bones. The biological part looks at how humans have changed and evolved over time. The forensic part uses this science to help identify people and solve legal cases by reading the stories bones can tell.
I didn’t stop there. I found out I enjoyed sharing what I know, so I trained to be a secondary science teacher. Now, my journey has come full circle. I work with the Army again as a Learning Support Manager, helping young soldiers overcome learning challenges and succeed in their careers.
You might think being a soldier and a scientist are completely different, but I used the same skills in both. In the Army, I had to stay calm when things got tough. I use those same skills in the lab. These are called transferable skills—abilities you learn in one area, like on a sports team or through a hobby, that you can use in a new job. My time in the Army gave me the discipline and determination to handle every change I’ve made since.
Here are my top three tips:
- Don’t be afraid to change direction. Changing your mind isn’t failing; it means you’re growing.
- Notice your hidden skills. If you’re a good listener or enjoy gaming, you have empathy and problem-solving abilities. These can help you become a better scientist.
- Your journey is your own. You don’t have to have everything figured out at 16. It’s okay to take your time and explore different paths.
Let’s connect! If you’re interested in my story or want to follow my career, you can find me on LinkedIn: Fair Metcalfe | LinkedIn.
