Career Exploration
The job market continuously changes to meet the needs of an ever-changing world. When you consider the amount of time we spend working, the importance of choose the right career becomes clear. On average, people change jobs five times in their adult life. Answering the three essential questions may provide the foundation you need to choose the career that is best suited for you:
Who am I? The answers to this question include your values, interests, and abilities. Truly understanding yourself is the most important part of the search. Many people seek jobs for reasons that are not compatible with their own values and interests. Unfortunately, some of these individuals struggle to find satisfaction from their jobs.
Where am I going? Here is where you begin to explore the various careers that match your own individuality. Keep in mind that the demand for certain career fields may ebb and flow as technology and cultural norms evolve. There may even be careers that do not currently exist, but will in the near future.
How do I get there? Now you begin outlining the steps needed to land that particular job, or enter a certain field. You may have to obtain more education or training, or just revise a resume and start applying.
Your Guidance Counselors, along with the websites highlighted below, can help you answer these essential questions and explore career trends and options. As you mature throughout your middle and high school years, your answer to these questions may evolve; be sure to revisit these ideas as time goes by.
Helpful Links for Exploring Your Interests:
Occupational Outlook Handbook - This site is sponsored by the US Department of Labor, and provides a comprehensive collection of resources for exploring careers. You will be able to find levels of training or education required, potential earnings, expected job prospects, working conditions, and more for all kinds of positions across the career spectrum.