Career Choices for Gifted Children
A gifted child is generally defined as a child who tests above a certain level on intelligence tests. Children may be gifted physically and emotionally as well as academically. A child with a gift or multiple talents will be happiest if she has the opportunity to use her abilities on a daily or weekly basis. The right job can help her do just that.
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Surgeon
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Think about becoming a surgeon. A surgeon is a doctor who performs surgery to correct physical problems. In order to become a surgeon, you must complete four years of college and then graduate from medical school. After that, potential surgeons are required to complete a period of internship and residency. Surgeons must have physical dexterity as well as knowledge of anatomy and physiology. The challenges posed by treating patients can allow a gifted child to fully utilize his talents in math and science.
Lawyer
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Lawyers perform a variety of tasks. They make sure that any legal documents are filled out correctly. They may represent defendants in court and participate in legal negotiations. Lawyers are required to complete four years of college and attend law school for three years. After graduation, they must pass state bar exams in order to practice law. Work as a lawyer can satisfy the gifted child who delights in solving puzzles and making arguments. A child who feels passionately about a subject and can express herself well may find this an ideal profession.
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Politician
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Politicians are elected by people to represent their interests. A politician may be a local school board member, mayor of a city or a congressional representative. In order to become a politician, you must be able to speak well in public, run a campaign effectively and work with constituents to adequately represent their concerns. You must also be able to work with other legislators and spend time raising money for campaigns if you are not independently wealthy. A job as a politician can be an excellent choice for a gifted child is who is fascinated by the legislative process and wants to help shape our nation's laws and policies.
Scientific Researcher
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Scientific researchers take part in many forms of research. They may seek to discover a new treatment for cancer or a way of better using common household materials. A career as a scientific researcher can help the gifted child use her talents to work on new ideas. Children who delight in learning new information may enjoy working on a common goal with others in a laboratory setting.
Novelist
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A novelist writes fiction. Novelists create imaginary characters and help bring them to life with words. A novelist may write contemporary fiction, romantic fiction or science fiction. Working as a novelist can be deeply satisfying for the child who loves words and has a vivid imagination.
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