Career Counseling

[twogirls]

Does the student have any areas of interest, obvious likes, dislikes etc? Have they narrowed it down at all (the student wants to change paths which means original path can be crossed off). Or is he/she still deciding? Is grad school an option down the road?

I will give you an example of one: during college and after graduation my daughter knew what general area she liked, and had a strong idea as to what she did not. She did not have a definitive career (careers often change) in mind following graduation, but she was able to cross certain things off her list. She spent 2 years focusing on different careers that zeroed in on her general interests- interviewed people in various jobs etc. She interviewed over 25 people during her “gap year” position (which was close to 3 years) before deciding.

Job shadowing and interviewing people in different careers but within a general area of interest might help, if the student can narrow it down a bit.

I know I am repeating myself lol, but for some this can be very helpful. Not everybody has a direct path at 22, and that’s ok.

It might also help to find a job that sounds interesting (even if it’s short term). While working (and they might be working now) they will have opportunities to speak with others, gain ideas, and determine likes/dislikes.

[compmom]

Volunteering and interning can be helpful. They help with resume building as well as clarifying interests and direction. Community colleges have a lot of career oriented certificates.

I think it is important to jump into something, no matter what it is. My kids took the leap (one took a job they were way overqualified for) and through sort of zig zag paths, ended up where they were relatively content or even happy.

Nothing wrong with working as a barista, or in a book store, or whatever while figuring it out.

I don’t think resume writing is rocket science. There are lots of examples online too. And a cover letter may be more important- and is harder to do well.

Does she get job listings by email every day? Also I found craigslist to be helpful in terms of thinking of jobs I would not know about.