Career Services

Undecided 101: Choosing a Major

When it comes to significant life decisions, choosing a major is certainly one of the more difficult ones. It is a process that deserves time and attention. Choosing a major may not be as overwhelming as you might think. The most important concept is to remember to choose a major that really interests you. This way you are more likely to stay interested in the subject matter, increasing your chances to complete your study plan successfully. The following information will help you with the process of choosing a major and/or career.

How to Begin your Search

• Identify your interests
• Explore your values
• Acknowledge your abilities
• Grab a catalog! (Catalogs are available at the Admissions & Records Office).
• Catalogs contain information on:
  1. Every degree offered at Lake Land College.
  2. Transfer and non-transfer degrees.
  3. Descriptions of each course offered at Lake Land
• Take the Career Cruising Planning System interest inventory. It’s FREE and accessible to you online 24 hours a day.

Career Cruising Planning System

Career Cruising will assess your interest, skills, and work values and it will compare your results to others who have already entered the workforce. This inventory will suggest possible career areas for you to explore. Career Cruising also includes an online portfolio that is accessible for life.

Take Time to Explore

The next step is to explore the possible career interests. You can explore possible careers by following these next few steps:

• Generate a list of majors that are related to your interests.
• Job shadow!
• Attend our job fair.
• Speak with faculty members about job interests.

Job Shadow

Job shadowing is a work based learning experience that allow a host during a typical day (or period of time) observing and asking questions about a particular career. Job shadowing can give students a new perspective on their studies, because it shows them a number of choices for their future. It also introduces students to the requirements of professions and industries, building a more prepared workforce for the 21st century.

Plan Ahead

Once you have decided on a degree, you need to plan ahead. Does your degree require you to transfer to a four year university? Is an internship required for graduation? These are all things you need to think about when planning your course of action for the future.

• Search the Internet when looking for a college to transfer to and apply early.
• Apply early for financial aid!
• Questions? Contact Career Services or Counseling Services for assistance.

Strategies for Success

Career Services offers an array of free workshops geared towards the success of students.

• Mock interviews
• Resume workshops
• Job seeking skills
• Elbows Off the Table etiquette review
• Cooperative Work Study internships

 

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