You may have already decided as an undergraduate to continue working in the field of your major. Or maybe you want to venture into an entirely new area of study. Either way, graduate or professional school can help you advance your knowledge for the future. If you’re unsure about your long-range career path, try using the tactics below:
- Investigate your interests and relate them to your educational experiences. Think of your hobbies, skills and experiences, and decide what you like best and how you can blend those abilities into your career.
- Volunteer for different organizations, secure internships and speak with professionals in the areas of study in which you’re most interested. Your experiences and what you learn from others can help you set goals for your career path.
- Research different careers via the library or the Web. Talk with graduate or professional schools’ admissions representatives and request brochures from different graduate or professional schools. The more information you have, the more capable you are to make the right decision.
- Meet with professionals who are working in your desired field to examine their career journeys and get professional advice.
- Check out the Occupational Handbook and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) Web site to start determining your future right now.
Some other things to consider when deciding on your career path include job stability, compensation, lifestyle demands and career placement opportunities. These things may help you determine which path is right for you.
|
