I'm 18F and will be going to Binghamton University this Fall as a history major. Throughout high school, I've been really interested in modern world history and analysis, especially the rise and fall of empires and how politics and human rights play out over time. Because of that I've been seriously considering going into international law after undergrad - maybe even acquiring a minor in a relating subject throughout my four years.
At the same time, I acknowledge that just being interested in history or politics doesn't automatically translate into a strong career path, and I also know (not to the fullest extent) that law school is a huge commitment and the actual work lawyers do can be very different from what people imagine. I originally wanted to be a secondary-education teacher of history, but I realized that the lifestyle I want doesn't align with that passion job. I also like being around kids and caring for them, as most of my high school jobs and extracurriculars surrounded being with kids. I wouldn't be opposed to pediatric medicine, but even though I know I'll be able to put the work in, I heard it's not the best path to go on if you're not FULLY invested.
What I really want is a career where I can be financially successful, live comfortable, and have the ability to travel the world - something that's really important to me. I want a good work-life balance (probably impossible) but I acknowledge that my passions don't align with what I want my life to look like.
I'm stuck figuring out whether international law is actually a good path for that kind of life, or if there any more practical paths that still connect to my interests in history, global affairs, etc. Even if I have to change my path to a completely different field like those in STEM, my priority is having a wealthy life in both family and money before any kind of passion of mine.
For anyone who was once stuck in my position, what did you do and how did you know what to do?