1. TRiO CAREERS

2. FIND YOUR PATH It is important to remember when developing a career path is that you are in charge of the journey. You must create your own path. You can receive advice from professionals,family and friends but ultimately the decision is yours. When you take responsibility for this journey you will be less anxious because you are in control. There is a old saying “If you enjoy what you do, you’ll never work another day in your life.” So begin this journey with the tools needed to make the best career choice!

3. A WORLD OF CHOICES Many of us find it difficult to narrow our career choice down in modern society. The job market is ever changing and dynamic. Careers developed today may be very different or non existent a few years from now. Many people have five careers in a lifetime the important thing is choosing one!

4. GATHER INFORMATION You may already be set on your career path when you begin your academic career. Make sure to truly investigate this career. If you don’t have direction investigate your options. List the skills you enjoy doing and find out what jobs use them. The Occupational Handbook at, www.bls.gov/ooh, is a good resource for this activity. Remember don’t get overwhelmed by the process of choosing.

5. FACTORS TO NAME What type of employer do you want to work for, name organizations that are high on your list. Do you want to be self-employed, name the product you would sell. Name your location. Consider factors such as do you want to work indoors, are you willing to relocate

6. TEST YOUR CHOICE Read books about your career choice and/or choosing a career. Search for career planning websites. Take career planning workshops and courses. Visit the career planning placement office on campus. You are not alone this journey professional career counselors are available on campus to assist you with this journey. You can find ISU Career Center here: http://www.isu.edu/career/

7. MAKE IT REAL Translate your career choice into work experience. Contact people in the career you choose and ask questions about their work. Job shadow an individual in your chosen field. Arrange an internship or volunteer position in the field that interests you. Get a summer job or part-time job in your career field. The contacts you make can become a source for recommendations, referrals and employment in the future.

8. TRANSFERABLE SKILLS Transferable skills are the kind of abilities that help people be successful in any job. Take an inventory of what skills you have already developed. Examples of transferable skills include: people skills, listening and negotiating; organizational skills, scheduling and time management; financial skills, decreasing expenses, monitoring income and expenses. Build on the skills you have already developed to ignite your career choice.

9. SALARIES AND CAREERS While salary is important, it isn't the only factor you should look at when choosing a career. Countless surveys have shown that money doesn't necessarily lead to job satisfaction. For many people enjoying what they do at work is much more important. However, you should consider earnings, among other things, when evaluating an occupation. Honestly evaluate your financial future. Research what pay scales are in selected professions.

10. IT’S A PROCESS Actually, choosing a career is an involved process and you should give it the time it deserves. Career planning is a multi-step process that involves learning enough about yourself and the occupations which you are considering in order to make an informed decision. Don’t forget to seek out the resources necessary to make the most of your journey!

11. Once you have completed this workshop complete and print. Turn in with your application and schedule an appointment with an Advisor. I verify that I have completed the online workshop on Careers for the TRiO Educational Talent Search program. _____________________________________________________ Student Name (printed)Signature _____________________________________________________ Date Intended Career