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Choosing a career can be a full-time endeavor. Be prepared to make a personal commitment of time and energy to the
process. Analyze your career and life goals, and be organized and flexible as you pursue these goals. The more committed
you are to your search, the greater your chances for success, paving the way to a rewarding career in the years ahead. Start
by conducting a complete analysis of yourself (your values, interests and abilities) to determine your career path and where
you would like to live and work. The following questions can be utilized as a guide to conduct your self-analysis. The career
counselors in the Center are equipped to help you with this process.
WHO AM I?
In two minutes or less, could you describe yourself to a
stranger including your interests, values, strengths and
weaknesses? If not, work on crafting what is called an
"Elevator Pitch" (see Page 15 for a useful script). Being able
to articulate who you are to employers in an orderly and
convincing manner will give you greater confidence and
make a much more favorable impression.
WHAT DO I WANT TO DO?
If you find this a difficult question, you are not alone. For
employers, it is one of the most important questions. The
answer you give will indicate whether you have given serious
thought to where you have been, where you are now and
where you hope to be in the future. The more thought
you give this question, the more convincing your response
will appear. Employers need a starting point to evaluate
candidates, so be able to thoughtfully talk about yourself.
Remember, employers will be paying you to do something
and not just to know something.
WHERE DO I WANT TO WORK?
This question can mean several things. Determine the
specific type of employer, industry and geographical location
that appeals to you. Your response to this question will
help you decide whether you should interview with certain
employers.
WHAT ARE MY GOALS?
The purpose of this question is to see if you have thought
about where your internship or entry-level job may lead
you and if this is congruent with your career path. It is
important for you to realize you are being selected not only
for what you can contribute today but for the potential you
are showing for tomorrow. Thinking about goals now helps
you stay on target as you develop, learn and implement skills
from internships and entry-level positions.