Step 3 - Research

Once you have settled on one or more fields of interest, conduct some research.  This process will give you an idea of what you need to do to get to where you want to be.  Use this tool as a way to assist you when researching and comparing the occupations you are currently considering. 

Use the sites below to research the perfect career for you.  Using the tool above will help you organize this information. 

Some additional ideas for career research: 

Use SCDISCUS to conduct job searches, career exploration, generate resumes and cover letters, take career interest assessment, and simulate interviews.  See Mrs. Blackmon in the library for the username and password. 

Informal Interviews

Talk to some adults that work in your potential field and ask them about what they do and don’t like about their career.  Ask how they feel about both the perks and drawbacks they describe? Then, pick their brain about the process it took to get them where they are. They can help you figure out the education and training you will need to get a similar job.

Not sure who to talk to? If you’re interested in a career with a specific job title, look it up on LinkedIn. You can find professionals working in your field and get an idea of how their education and experience brought them to their current position. Keep in mind that most professions lack an exact formula to get a job, so never feel the need to follow a professional’s life story. Instead, figure out what’s similar about those who succeeded.

Participate in Job Shadowing

At the current time, on-site job shadowing at BHS has been postponed until further notice.  However, taking part in the online research and watching career videos of your current career choice provides you with the virtual option of job shadowing. 

Below is a link to an approved site from SCDE (South Carolina Department of Education) as a virtual job shadowing option for students:

https://www.microcareerburst.com/

Username: SC2020

Password: gr8tcareers

If you would like to receive credit in PowerSchool as participating in virtual job shadowing, you will need to download and complete the South Carolina Work-Based Learning COVID-19 Alternative MicroCareerBurst Online Job Shadow Learning Plan  and submit your responses to Mrs. Stegall Lail in the BHS guidance office or through Google Drive.

Work Based Learning for Career Readiness

If you have a job that aligns with your current career goal, you may qualify for work based learning credit.  Meeting the requirement of work based learning would identify your achievement of career readiness based on the South Carolina Graduate Model.  Please contact Mrs. Stegall Lail for more information.