Occupational Exploration

Occupational Exploration
As you continue the process of learning more about yourself, it's important to begin learning about the world of work in general, and about the specific career alternatives you are considering in particular. Some questions you need to ask yourself include:

  • Do I have a general understanding of the world of work?

  • Which career areas are most consistent with my interests, values, needs, and abilities?

  • Have I fully investigated each career area?

  • Do I know the employment outlook, salary, education and training needed, job responsibilities, etc?

Things You Can Do at Suffolk

  • Review the college catalog for descriptions of all the programs and majors available at Suffolk.

  • Take both introductory and advanced courses in your areas of interest.

  • Visit the career services and cooperative education office for general information about careers, the job market, and employment trends. Discuss opportunities for part-time jobs and cooperative education or internship placements in your areas of interest.

  • Talk to faculty, advisers, and advanced students in all the major areas you are considering.

  • Investigate the specific careers or majors you are considering by using the available career resources and library materials (e.g., occupational guides, career software, trade journals, periodicals, etc.).

  • Talk to people employed in the community (especially friends and family) about what their jobs are like.

  • Take a leadership position in student organizations, especially those that focus on your academic major or career area.

Things You Can Do on the Internet
Check out our occupational exploration links for access to comprehensive career information.

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