People are most happy in careers that take advantage of the best they have to offer in terms of interests, skills, values and preferences. While we can all “survive” a job that does not suit us, survival is all it is: not growth, not pride – those things we seek (in addition to money) in working lives that are satisfying. Self-assessment is the first step in the career planning process.
While your choice of major does not have to determine what you will do to earn a living, it’s a good idea to find out more about what careers align with your program of study.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) has identified eight, core competencies as a measure of career-readiness. Evaluate whether you possess these competencies and where you can improve.
Career planning may seem overwhelming, but developing an action plan will help you to navigate through the career development process. Developing a career plan is a great exercise to map out and begin working toward your short- and long-term career goals.