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Where Do I Begin?

"At what point during college should I start thinking about my career options?"

Freshman Year

Upon entering college you will face many new challenges. Getting to know where services are located on your campus is one of them. Career services are located in the Academic Counseling Office. Introduce yourself to academic advisors, department directors and professors as well as students. Explore a variety of majors. Schedule an appointment with your academic advisor to find out what career services the University has to offer.

Sophomore Year

Now is the opportunity to take a variety of classes to gain a well-rounded experience. Seek the counsel of your advisor by scheduling a meeting to discuss your career development process. Ask to take part in self-assessment exercises and career exploration tools to better identify your interest, talents and possibly a career direction. Evaluate your career alternatives and think about the course and fieldwork that might enhance your career development. The University's Career Mentor Network will put you in touch with alumni and parents working in the field that are willing to meet with you and discuss their careers. A valid career exploration tool is to job shadow or conduct informational interviews.

Junior Year

By this time in your college career, you should be able to manage your time between classes, family, friends and work. You have made networks and connections with faculty and students. Now, if you have not already, is the time to get involved in outside activities. Gain hands on experience to demonstrate your readiness. Find an internship or volunteer in a field that is interesting to you. Here are some suggestions for activities that can supplement your experience.

• Campus activities and clubs
• Community organizations
• Service learning/ volunteer projects
• Work study opportunities
• Study, travel work abroad
• Internships
• Part time and summer jobs
• Networking with family and friends
• Attend job fairs
• Subscribe to professional journals
• Investigate graduate school options

Senior Year

Plan to make several appointments throughout the year with a counselor or an advisor to discuss your career goals. You will begin the job search by getting together your resume and references and organizing what you have achieved throughout your academic career.

Fall Semester

• Apply to graduate school
• Create your portfolio by gathering writing samples or "A" work you have done. Gather letters of recommendation from internship/volunteer supervisors, instructors, employers and community leaders.
• Choose people to serve as references. Seek out those who can attest to your character, work ethic and achievement and qualifications for your chosen fields.

Spring Semester

• Plan on writing multiple drafts of your resume and have an advisor review them and make suggestions.
• Practice you interviewing skills by scheduling a "mock" job interview with an advisor.
• On campus events and attend job fairs