2: Getting Started- Creating Your Career
- Page ID
- 307509
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Did you know the U.S. Department of Labor recognizes hundreds of different occupations, and new ones are emerging all the time? Just think about some time ago, hardly anyone had heard of an influencer, an AI ethics specialist, or a TikTok creator or seller. The world of work is constantly evolving, which means your dream job might not even exist yet!
That’s why it’s perfectly okay if you don’t know exactly what career you want right now. The goal of this course is to help you discover your direction, identify what you’re passionate about, and start building a plan that connects your education to your future.
Career exploration is a process of discovery. It’s exciting, creative, and sometimes surprising. Even students who think they already know what they want to do often find new interests, backup options, or even entirely new dreams through this process.
The Four Phases of Career Exploration
Career exploration can be planned in four key phases, each helping you answer an important question about your future.
Phase 1: Who Am I?
Before you can choose the right career, you need to understand yourself. This first phase is all about self-discovery—getting to know your interests, values, strengths, and skills.
In this unit, you’ll complete several career assessments and reflection activities that will help you:
- Discover your personality preferences and how they relate to different career fields.
- Identify your top values, like creativity, independence, or helping others.
- Explore your character strengths—traits that make you unique, like leadership, curiosity, or perseverance.
- Recognize your skills and talents that can transfer across many jobs.
By understanding who you are, you’ll gain the confidence to choose a career that fits—not one that just sounds good on paper.
Phase 2: What’s Out There?
Once you know more about yourself, it’s time to explore the world of work. This phase is about research and discovery.
You’ll dive into:
- Career databases and websites to explore job titles, descriptions, and growth trends.
- Networking activities that connect you with professionals in fields that interest you.
- Real-world experiences like volunteering, job shadowing, or internships to test your interests.
- Industry expectations, including the education, skills, and experience employers look for.
The more you learn, the better prepared you’ll be to make smart, informed decisions about your major, your college pathway, and your long-term career goals.
Phase 3: What Factors Might Affect My Choice?
Every career decision comes with practical considerations. This phase helps you think through real-world factors that can shape your path—and how to plan around them.
Here are some questions you’ll explore:
- Time: How long will it take to reach your goal? Will you need more school, training, or certifications?
- Finances: How much will your education cost, and what is the earning potential in your field?
- Location: Where are most jobs in your field located? Would you need to move—or can you work remotely?
- Lifestyle & Family: How might your career choice impact your personal goals, relationships, or work-life balance?
By thinking critically and creatively, you’ll learn how to overcome obstacles and design a path that works for you.
Phase 4: Where Do I Go From Here?
This phase turns your exploration into action! Now that you’ve identified your interests and priorities, it’s time to create your career and education plan.
In this unit, you’ll:
- Choose a major or academic focus that aligns with your career goals.
- Explore degree and certificate options, including transfer programs and technical pathways.
- Identify opportunities for hands-on learning—like internships, service learning, or campus leadership.
- Begin developing your Student Educational Plan (SEP) with your counselor or advisor.
Remember, you don’t need to have everything figured out right now. The key is to stay curious and keep moving forward with purpose.
Career Exploration Is a Lifelong Journey
Career planning doesn’t end when you pick a major—it’s an ongoing process. As you grow and gain experience, your interests, values, and goals may evolve. That’s normal!
The more you learn about yourself and your options, the more focused and confident you’ll become. Be open to new ideas, take risks, and stay flexible as the world of work continues to change. Your career journey is not just about finding a job—it’s about finding fulfillment, growth, and purpose in what you do.
Reflection Questions
- What excites you most about exploring different careers?
- What skills or personal strengths do you already have that could help you succeed in the workplace?
- How can learning more about yourself help you make better academic or career choices?
- What factors (like finances, location, or family) do you think might influence your career path?
- How can you stay flexible and open to new opportunities throughout your career journey?
Key Terms
- Career Exploration – The process of learning about yourself and the world of work to make informed career decisions.
- Values – The principles or beliefs that guide what’s most important to you.
- Transferable Skills – Skills that can be applied across different jobs and industries.
- Networking – Building connections with people who can provide information, support, or opportunities.
- Student Educational Plan (SEP) – A personalized academic roadmap that connects your coursework to your career goals.