Career Exploration: Find Your Path

No matter where you are in school or life, exploring careers now can help you stay flexible, confident, and ready for the future.

Whether you’re just starting college, returning after time away, or balancing school with work and family, career exploration is one of the most valuable things you can do for your future. It’s not just for when you’re ready to graduate – it’s something that will help at any point in your college and work life. 

Start now. New college students rarely know exactly what they want to do yet. And that’s ok! Now is a great time to start exploring your interests, values, and strengths. Being intentional about your career exploration can help you: 

• Choose an academic program or transfer plan to support your goal 
• Take classes that help you explore your career interests 
• Discover careers that you may not have considered 
• Make the most of your time in college 

Even when you're working, keep exploring. Your career goals will change as you learn more about yourself and have different experiences at work. Even after you’ve chosen a major, started a job, or been in the same you for years, it’s useful to: 

• Stay open to new opportunities and be ready for them
• Build skills that will prepare you for career advancement 
• Adjust your path as your interests change and grow

Remember: exploration is for everyone. No matter where you are in your college or career journey, it just makes sense to practice career exploration. The world of work is changing rapidly, and building in some flexibility to your plans will help you future-proof your employment possibilities. Knowing your goals and thinking about how to reach them will help you make informed decisions and feel more confident. 

Take the first step. Career Services offers free, online career assessments to help you learn more about your interests, strengths, and possible career paths. Set a goal now to complete one (or all three!) and start shaping your future: Find Your Path.