Career development is a life-long process and it’s never too early to start thinking about it! Even as early as your first year, there are ways to explore career options. Here are some suggestions for maximizing each year of your college experience.
INVESTIGATE OPTIONS: First Year
CAREER
- Discuss your career goals and create a 4-year plan with a Career Advisor
- Research majors and careers
- Explore resources on the Career Center website
- Attend career-related workshops and events
- Develop your résumé and seek opportunities for part-time employment, volunteering, or job shadowing
ACADEMIC
- Meet with your academic advisor and explore academic disciplines
- Choose introductory elective courses that interest you
- Talk with faculty and actively participate in class
- Develop study and time management skills
- Maintain a solid GPA
PERSONAL & SOCIAL
- Join a student organization on campus
- Maintain a balanced school/social life
- Get involved on campus by attending student programs and athletic events
- Connect with other students and seek out mentors, whether peers or faculty/staff
TEST DRIVE & CONFIRM CHOICE: Sophomore Year
CAREER
- Research internship and summer job opportunities with a Career Advisor
- Attend Career Center programs on résumé and cover letter writing and interviewing skills
- Interview and job shadow professionals in the field related to your area of interest
- Consider the possibility of graduate or professional school
ACADEMIC
- Discuss career options for academic majors with faculty and academic advisors
- Confirm your major
- Develop an academic plan with your advisor according to degree requirements
- Maintain a solid GPA
- Consider adding a minor, certificate or endorsement to your academic plan
PERSONAL & SOCIAL
- Join a professional organization relevant to your major
- Reflect on your values, interests, skills and abilities
- Participate in volunteer opportunities on campus or within your community
- Consider the benefits of studying abroad
PREPARE & CONNECT with PROFESSIONALS: Junior Year
CAREER
- Network with faculty, staff and employers
- Participate in an internship experience
- Complete a mock interview
- Attend career programs sponsored by the Career Center
- Update résumé and have it reviewed by the Career Center
- Discuss your career plan with Career Advisors, professors, & advisors
- Develop a list of professional references
- Research typical employers and work environments
ACADEMIC
- Meet with your academic advisor to ensure you are still on track to graduate
- Consider adding a minor, certificate, or endorsement to your academic plan
- Maintain a solid GPA
- Begin the graduate school application process and entrance exams, if applicable
PERSONAL & SOCIAL
- Continue hands-on experiences through activities, employment, and community involvement
- Take on leadership roles in your student organizations
- Practice stress & time management techniques to maintain a healthy social and school life balance
IMPLEMENT JOB/GRAD SCHOOL SEARCH: Senior Year
CAREER
- Polish your résumé and cover letters; have them reviewed by a Career Advisor
- Attend career fairs & participate in on-campus interviews
- Plan your job search strategy or complete grad school applications
- Participate in Career Center workshops
- Join professional organizations in your field and attend meetings & conferences
- Participate in a mock interview to gain competitive edge
- Research possible companies, organizations, and employment options
- Complete the employment destination surveys & inform the Career Center when you accept a job
- Connect with the Career Center as your lifelong career office
ACADEMIC
- Request letters of recommendation from faculty early in the year
- Confirm with your academic advisor that your requirements for graduation are met
- Complete all necessary graduation documentation
- Complete forms, request and send all necessary graduate school information, such as transcripts, financial aid, graduate assistant and scholarship applications
- Maintain solid GPA
PERSONAL & SOCIAL
- Continue to assess personal and professional post-graduation goals
- Utilize services available through UW and continue to stay involved
- Continue to establish and maintain relationships on campus and in the community