Career & Skill Connections

Career and Skill Connections for Work Experience Programs

Career Exploration & Pathways

This course is part of Monterey Peninsula College’s Work Experience Program. Exploratory Work Experience is designed for students who want to discover career options, explore interests, and gain professional skills while earning college credit. This course gives you the chance to “try out” a career field, explore workplace settings, and learn more about yourself and your goals. It’s a great way to start building résumé experience and making informed decisions about your education and career pathway.

What Can You Do With This Major?

Students in Exploratory Work Experience use this class to:

• Explore different industries before committing to a major or career

• Gain introductory workplace experience

• Build professional habits and transferable skill

• Learn what they enjoy (and don’t enjoy) in a career setting

• Make connections that can lead to future internships or jobs

This course is open to students across all MPC programs and pathways, it’s especially valuable if you’re still deciding on your major or career path.

For more career information, visit California Career Zone (www.cacareerzone.org), O*NET (www.onetonline.org), or meet with an MPC counselor.

Skills You Are Building in This Class

This course helps you strengthen professional skills that are valuable in any workplace, such as:

• Professional communication (written, verbal, and digital)

• Problem-solving and adaptability

• Teamwork and collaboration

• Time management and accountability

• Career exploration and professional goal-setting

These transferable skills are sought after by employers in every industry and will strengthen your résumé, no matter your field.

Industry Sectors

Students in this class may be placed in or gain experience with organizations in sectors such as:

• Business & Finance

• Arts, Media, and Design

• Hospitality, Tourism, and Culinary Arts

• Health Sciences

• Agriculture & Environmental Services

• Technology & Engineering

• Education & Human Services

• Public Service and Nonprofit Organizations

Career Support at Monterey Peninsula College

• Work-Based Learning / Internships: Real-world experience while you study

• Career Services Center & Transfer Center: Help with resumes, internships, and transfer planning

Example Job Titles & Salary Info

Visit MPC’s Career and Academic Pathway webpage for this program and learn more about possible jobs and salary information related to this major of study.

Next Steps in Your Career Journey

• Meet with a counselor to create a Student Education Plan and make sure you are on track to graduate.

• Consider how this class supports your long-term career goals and consider making some goals for yourself regarding transfer if it is needed to achieve your goal.

Reach for Your Goals, We Will Support You!

End of Career and Skill Connections