Major and career exploration
When searching for a major or a career that fits, first look
within. Assessments such as our
TypeFocus
program can help you identify and define your interests (what
you like to do), skills (what you are good at), work values
(what is important to you), and personality (what personal
tendencies do you have). Many people prefer to work in a career
that allows students to pursue their interests, use their
skills, work according to their values, and act in a manner
consistent with their personalities. Type Focus will present
students with majors and careers that other people with the same
or similar characteristics usually prefer. Please
contact the Career Center for the access code to our
TypeFocus account.
Step 2: Research Careers
Finding an appropriate potential career
will require research and reflection. Have you selected an
academic
program? Do you know what you can
do for a living with your major? Once you find that out, you
might want to learn about what job titles mean, working conditions
in that job, required skills and experience, or future job prospects
in that area. Resources such as the
Occupational
Outlook Handbook can tell you what to expect. You may wish to
talk to people in that field to learn more about what that job is
really like. Learning as much as you can about careers of interest
will help you rule out some career paths and focus on others.
Resources
SMU Academic
Programs and course offerings
What can I do with a major in...?
Occupational Outlook Handbook
Washington Labor Market Information
Step 3: Experience Careers
The best way to know if you are going to enjoy a potential
career is to gain experience in your field of choice. Talk with
people in the field, enroll in job-shadowing or mentoring
programs, or try on a particular career through an internship.
If you are interested in trying a career on, the Career Center
can help connect you with opportunities in your field.
Resources
Alumni Job Shadowing
SMU-Mentor Connect
Step 4: Reflect
Reflecting on your assessed interests, skills, values and
personality, your research into the pros and cons of careers,
and your experience as an intern can help you decide whether a
career is a good fit for you. If the career appears to be a good
fit, you can then decide if it is a career worth pursuing. If it
isn't, go back and research and experience other career options.
Step 5: Plan
Once you find a career with the right fit, you can begin to
plan for your career. What steps will you need to take to make
yourself stand out to employers? What experience will make you
marketable in the field? The Career Center Staff can help you
plan your transition from college to career.