Career exploration can be seen as the continuous process of learning about career
paths, jobs, industries, fields and roles that fit your professional interests, goals,
values and skills. Whether you are exploring majors, or looking into new career options
post-graduation, career exploration can happen at any point in your life (and sometimes
multiple times!). It is often a lifelong process for many of us as we discover new
passions, skills or needs through different experiences and life events.
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Career can be defined as “your life’s work; the path you embark upon to fulfill your
professional goals and ambitions.” When you do work related to your career, it is
something that you do because it is part of your purpose or “calling.” Your career
ambitions can change over time, especially as you encounter new experiences that give
you a new mission to be a part of.
Throughout our lifetime, we will often have many jobs over the course of our career(s).
While a job’s primary purpose may be financial, it is common for these jobs to look
very different from one another and still be actively contributing towards your career
goals. There are also times where we may take on temporary jobs that seem less related
to our career goals, to sustain our way of living or to explore another industry.
Nonetheless, every job you have will allow you to develop skills that can help your
career.
Remember that the path we take to reach our career goals is not always a straight
line. In fact, it more often looks different for everyone, even those with the same
job title. As you continue to explore your career options, it is important to be open
minded and patient with what your path may look like.
Here are some questions to ask yourself as you explore different careers. Afterwards, make a career exploration appointment with your Career Team to discuss your thoughts!
- What is important to me?
- What topics and ideas spark my curiosity or excitement?
- What are my strengths/skills?
- How do I like to spend my time?
- What are my favorite classes, and why? Or, what was my favorite job/internship, and
why?
- What are my least favorite classes, and why? Or, what was my least favorite job/internship,
and why?
- If I had a magic wand, what would I do for a year?
- What jobs/careers seem interesting to me? Why?
- Who has influenced my ideas about my career options?
- What career paths or jobs can I cross off my list?
- Who else is impacted by my career choices?
- What kind of work environment do I thrive in?
The Chapman Career Team has curated these resources to help you discover your career
path.
Make an Appointment
Schedule a career exploration meeting with a career advisor from Chapman's Career
Team
Show MoreShow LessAssessments
Take a self-assessment or formal career assessment to discover more about your skills,
strengths, personality and options
Show MoreShow LessProgram Career Portal
Browse the portal to explore a curated list possible career options within a major
Show MoreShow LessClubs and Organizations
Consider joining a campus club or organization to connect with others with similar
career interests
Show MoreShow LessInformational Interviews
Learn more about how conversations with professionals having can help with your exploration
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