Hello Denisonians,
The biggest challenge with career exploration isn’t a lack of opportunities; it’s figuring out where to even start. With so many industries out there, it’s easy to feel stuck before you even begin.
Here’s the good news: You don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. There are now incredible online tools designed to help students in each step of the way, whether it is navigating career exploration, whether you’re still deciding on a major, or just looking for direction. And you can find them all on Knowlton Connect!
Step 1: Learn More About Yourself
- Focus2: A self-assessment tool that helps you discover careers that align with your skills, values, and interests. This is a great tool to point you in the right direction.
- TruMotivate: This tool helps you understand what drives you in a workplace. Do you enjoy solving complex problems? Working with people? Creating something new? Knowing what motivates you can help you find a career that energizes you.
Step 2: Explore Career Options:
- O*Net: Think of this as a career encyclopedia. It gives detailed job descriptions, required skills, and industry outlooks, so you can get a realistic view of what different careers actually involve.
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Want to know what jobs are in demand, how much they pay, or what education they require? This tool provides long-term insights to help you make informed career decisions.
Step 3: Get Hands-On Experience:
- Forage: Offers free virtual job simulations from top companies, letting you experience real-world tasks in different industries before committing to an internship or job.
- Ask-A-Denisonian: Career exploration isn’t just about research; it’s about talking to people who’ve been there. This platform connects you with Denison alumni who can share career advice, industry insights, and personal experiences.
The Takeaway: The key to career exploration is to just start. Whether it’s taking a career assessment, researching industries, or connecting with alumni, every step you take brings you closer to figuring out what excites you. Making an appointment with a Knowlton Center Coach to discuss your career interests is also recommended.
