Timeline for Career Success

Freshman

  • Take a variety of classes to assess you interests (and see if a double-major/minor is feasible).
  • Participate in a Career Services "Career/Major Decision" seminar to explore various areas.
  • Learn about available resources on campus (i.e. Career Services, Health Services, tutoring).
  • No major? Ask Career Services staff about FOCUS (assesses interests, goals, likes, talents, etc.).
  • Research various careers. Be open-minded and optimistic.
  • Plan summer vacation (get a career-related job--even volunteer--if possible).
  • No clue what you want to do? You are not alone. Use Career Services' resources now to help.
  • Create a resume of your qualifications/experiences and a cover letter to introduce yourself.

Sophomore

  • Get involved on campus. Participation in clubs, organizations, etc., is a great way to explore interests and develop new skills
  • Gather additional info needed to select a major if you have not already done so.
  • Begin thinking seriously about related experience (intern, co-op, part-time or volunteer work).
  • Conduct informational interviews with professionals in your area to learn more about necessary skills and qualifications needed in your desired career area.

Junior

  • Take courses to supplement your education and make you more marketable in your field.
  • Research employment and graduate school options.
  • Decide what to do after graduation...enter the job market?...attend graduate school?
  • Cultivate good relationships with professors and employers who know your interests and can serve as references.
  • Continue seeking career-related experience (this is the last summer of your college career).

Senior

If entering the work force:

  • Attend Career Services' workshops on resume writing, interviewing, job search preparation, etc.
  • Narrow down the types of jobs and employers with whom you would like to work.
  • Research information about job openings and potential employers.
  • Use various strategies to pursue job opportunities: on-campus interviews, job listings, targeted job search strategies, networking, former intern hosts, leads from professors, etc.

If enrolling in graduate school:

  • Define the area of study you wish to pursue.
  • Select appropriate schools and programs.
  • If you have not already done so, take the necessary admission tests (GMAT, GRE, LSAT, etc.).
  • Discuss your plans with faculty.
  • Apply early for admission (especially if you hope for a paid assistantship).