1. How To Choose A Career That Works For You
Where Are You Heading?
How To Choose A Career
That Works For You

2. Career vs. Job Career Job
A chosen pursuit; a profession or occupation.
The general course or progression of one’s working life or professional achievements.
Job
A regular activity preformed in exchange for payment.
A position in which one is employed.
A specific piece of work done for a set fee.

3. How to Choose a Career Skills & Interests Self Assessments Career Goal
Career Plan

4. Skills and Interests
Skills – From employment, volunteer work, class, or social activities.
Interests – What do you like to do, experiences you’ve enjoyed and found challenging.
What is similar in the lists?
What could turn into a career?

5. How did you choose your major?
What interests you? – Insects, Plants, Agriculture
Where do you succeed? – Science, Math
What type of classes do you like? – Theoretical, Discussion, Hands-On
What minors interest you? – Genetics, Psychology What Can You Do With A Major In…

6. Puzzle Pieces What clubs, activities, classes have you enjoyed?
What is it you like about these activities?
Which ones challenge you?
Evaluate school, volunteer, work, or leisure experiences.

7. Think about . . . Physical & Psychological Needs
Aspirations and Motivations
Personality Traits & Characteristics
Ideal Work Environment
Accomplishments
Personal Values

8. Self Assessments Work Values Passion Learning Interest Aptitude
Abilities & Skills
Personality Traits
Desired Lifestyle

9. Self Assessments Keirsey Self Assessment Key Career Key Sigi Plus
Career Advisor

10. Investigate!
Classes not directly relating to you major- Jazz, Communication, Psychology.
Its okay to change your major!
Extracurricular Activities are great-
Internships, Clubs, Community Service.
All these things help you figure out what you like and what areas best suit you.

11. Explore
Experience – Internships, Job Shadow, Career Expo, Informational Interviews.
Network – Field, Major, PC’s, Professors
What Can I Do With My Major? (on web site)
Look into different careers that interest you, the benefits, and the drawbacks.
Hours Work Conditions
Travel Location
Training Salary & Benefits
Explore Alternatives.

12. Career Goal
Deciding on a career that fits your talents, skills, interests, and values.
To be an animal nutritionist.
To teach high school.
To be an agricultural newspaper editor.

13. Decisions, Decisions, Decisions
Do your interests, skills, and values match characteristics of the chosen field?
What opportunities exist and do they match your potential?
Can you envision yourself happy & successful in this area?
Are you confident with your decision?

14. Career Path Plan to obtain Career Goal
Additional Education / Special Training
Internships, Co-ops, Volunteer
Clubs & professional organizations of CALS
Skills – Interpersonal & Technical
Develop Resume & interview skills
Leadership rolls
Contacts – Network & Mentors

15. Plans, Plans, Plans!
The average person changes jobs 6 to 7 times, and changes occupations 3 to 4.
Career Planning – Life Long Process
Choose an Occupation
Get a Job
Grow in a Job
Move up or Change Careers
Retirement