14 surprising first careers of famous people

In some of my recent issues, I’ve tried to share the lesson that people can come from a variety of backgrounds and still have successful business careers. Many visitors to this site are aiming for drastic career transitions into business, but conventional wisdom often leaves people thinking that it isn’t possible. Before I applied to business school, I remember hearing that people needed to major in Business Administration in undergrad and do either investment banking or management consulting afterward to have a shot at being a successful businessperson in the long-term. I’m so glad that I didn’t listen too intently to these tall tales because they almost made me not apply to business school at all.

Now, I’m in the position to show people that one doesn’t have to start off on a traditional “business career path” to find success in the business world. I love hearing stories of people who started off on a path, realized that it was the wrong path, and totally switched it up to end up in a completely new place with lots of success. These people inspire me and I hope to join their ranks one day as a former Techie who flipped it and ended up being a monster in the business world. And, that brings me to the point of this entry…

Last week, I was contacted by Kaitlyn Cole from OnlineUniversities.com with a link to a really interesting article that she recently posted on her website. In the article, she lists 14 instances of notable people who had first careers that were far different from the areas for which they are known. The people profiled include entrepreneurs, politicians, and entertainers and had a wide range of backgrounds before going into the career tracks with which most people associate them.

Check out the article below and prepare to learn a couple of things about some interesting folks…maybe you could have a similarly major career transition if you’d like to. 🙂

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Title: 14 Surprising First Careers of Famous People
Author: Kaitlyn Cole
Source: OnlineUniversities.com – http://www.onlineuniversities.com/blog/2010/10/14-surprising-first-careers-of-famous-people/

Excerpt from the article:

If you’re experiencing some vocational unrest and are worried you’re unqualified for anything other than what your university degree directly prepare you for, don’t discredit the possibility of a career shift. Switching jobs and even industries is becoming more common due to new economic conditions and the increase in adult and continuing education programs. You don’t need to have been a part of the field for 30 years to become successful or a high-profile leader, either. Here are 14 surprising first careers of influential figures, including presidents, entertainers and entrepreneurs.