I just started grad school for architecture....very far away from the field of nutrition! But i think I made the wrong decision, I had been struggling with it for awhile and just decided to go since I was already accepted.  What I really want to do is something related to plant based nutrition because that is what I'm REALLY passionate about.  However, I don't know exactly what I'd do with it.  I graduated with honors in undergrad, and have always taken the "higher road" of education, hence why I am struggling with the idea of dropping out of grad school.  That being said, I would need to find a LEGIT career in plant based nutrition; I am wary of "certificate programs," I feel like I would need a respectable degree in something.

1) I know I dont want to become a registered dietician; I DO NOT want to follow the ADA guidelines and learn about obese people

2) I've briefly looked into naturopathic medicine...i'm just not sure that I want to treat everything/be a doctor. Plus it would take me 4-7 years to get it!

3) I am only 23 and don't feel comfortable at this point in my life being a one on one counselor and talking to people within my "home office."

4)working at PCRM would be a dream job...I am especially interested in the link between diet and disease, but I don't want to be a scientist..

It would be a dream to write a cookbook, or have my own little vegan cafe or bakery! But i feel like those are common aspirations that are very difficult to achieve, and you have to be somebody to publish a book...?

Not sure where to take this passion! Any advice would be appreciated!

Hi Mackenzie,

I feel for you.  The world is a hostile place for young people in your position.  You are so smart to be taking your choices so seriously.  

My sons friend is pursuing a degree in green architecture.  Its a booming industry now and somewhat in keeping with your interests and talents.  Maybe something in that direction would be a good fit?

One bit advice would be to follow your passion and not really look to the end of how you will exactly apply it. If you are passionate you will find a way to talk about it, explain and spread the knowledge and things will attract you and a good fit will occur.  Another way to look at it is to gather school credits that will employ you in a good job and then pursue passionate hobbies and then see where that leads you. 23, is wonderful a lot of time to make gains and mistakes or misteps. It's all a part of the journey and none of it wasted. I would be careful of making any that are costly though like schooling can be. There are always some aspects of school/career that might not be a part of your path (like the ADA guidelines) but if they are not principle to the actual work just gloss over it?  How exciting! I am thinking of going back to school and have the same issues!!! :)