Benefits of having a plan
85% of students indicate that they pursue college in order to achieve a better career. Meanwhile, 60% of incoming first-year students enter college without established major/career goals or a career plan. Career planning has been linked to:
- Increased student motivation
- Improved academic performance
- Higher likelihood of persisting through graduation
- Higher likelihood of graduating on time
If all of these things sound good to you, start working on your career plan today!
1. Explore Majors & Careers
- If you haven't already, start exploring majors and careers here.
- You will find information about taking career and personality assessments, researching majors and career options, and choosing a major.
- Additional resources are also available through the Career Development Center. Schedule a Major & Career Exploration appointment for more information.
2. Research career options
In addition to the information included in the Focus 2 system, use the following resources to research career options:
3. Connect with people doing the work
After you have completed online research career options, it is time to step away from the computer and talk to professionals who actually perform the work on a daily basis. By networking with employers and performing informational interviews, you are able to gather more information about what the particular job or work environment is actually like, and if you can see yourself there.
4. Gain experience
- Get involved in campus clubs and organizations and take advantage of leadership opportunities if possible
- Explore opportunities to study abroad to enhance cross-cultural knowledge and skills
- Actively engage in your community through volunteer activities
- Consider an on-campus job, internship, research experience or part-time job while you are in school to build on your skills and experience