Explore Academic Programs & Careers
Explore your future Career Path
Choosing a career isn鈥檛 about finding just any job鈥攊t鈥檚 about discovering a path that connects your interests, values, and strengths with opportunities that fit who you are and where you want to go.
Career exploration is a process of learning more about yourself and the world of work, so you can make informed decisions about your education and future. The earlier you start, the more time you鈥檒l have to explore your options, adjust, and plan your next steps with confidence.
To get started, we recommend one of the following options:
Other things to consider:
- A job is what you do for work right now鈥攊t helps you gain experience, build skills, and earn income.
- A career is your longer journey鈥攊t鈥檚 the collection of jobs, learning, and experiences that help you grow in a field or direction that feels right for you.
Exploring careers helps you think beyond your next job and toward a future that fits your interests, goals, and lifestyle鈥攁 path that feels both achievable and rewarding.
Starting early allows you to:
- Connect your academic choices (like majors or programs) with real-world opportunities.
- Discover what motivates you and where your strengths can shine.
- Make the most of campus resources, internships, and support before you graduate.
- Feel more confident and focused as you move through college and beyond.
Career exploration isn鈥檛 a one-time task鈥攊t鈥檚 an ongoing process of reflecting, learning, and adjusting as you grow.
Making a career decision takes more than just choosing a major鈥攊t鈥檚 about understanding yourself, your options, and how to make choices that fit your life.
Here鈥檚 how you can think through that process:
- Know Yourself 鈥 Identify your interests, values, skills, and personality traits.
- Explore Your Options 鈥 Learn about different programs, careers, and industries that align with your strengths and goals.
- Evaluate and Reflect 鈥 Compare what you鈥檝e learned about yourself and your options. What feels like the best fit right now?
- Plan and Take Action 鈥 Choose a direction, set goals, and take small steps鈥攍ike enrolling in a class, joining a club, or talking to someone in your field.
- Review and Adjust 鈥 Your goals may change, and that鈥檚 okay! Reflect regularly and adjust as you learn more.
Career exploration helps you connect your education and experiences with jobs that offer growth, stability, and satisfaction over time.