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:
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.