Career Planning & Choosing a College Major - Steps to Exploring Careers

Making decisions about your college major and career can be overwhelming. Follow this step-by-step process to clarify your goals and make an informed decision. 

STEP 1:  Self-Discovery

Self-awareness will help you reach your career goals.  Consider these questions:

• What special skills and abilities do you have?
• What motivates and excites you? 
• What work environment is most appealing to you?
• What are your challenges?  

STEP 2:  Assess Yourself

Learn which careers would be more satisfying to your by assessing your personality, interest and values before exploring different careers. Free assessments for you to use: 

• "My Next Move" 

For further assistance with your career exploration and planning, please contact your campus career center to schedule an appointment with a career counselor.

STEP 3:  Explore Career Options

Take time to investigate the world of work. Make a list of careers that interest you and research them online and by talking with others. 
Some important points to consider:

• Nature of the work
• Education, training, and/or certification
• Work environment
• Salary
• Job market – current and future
• Related careers

CAREER RESOURCES to help you research occupational information, salaries and employment projections.