Bridging the Gap Between College Majors and a Career Your Career Presented by: MSJC Counseling Department
Let s Get Started! Please be sure to sign-in. Pick up one of each of the handouts. Start by filling in the majors and careers you are considering.
Selecting a College Major What is a College Major? Concentration in a subject you are passionate about Specialization in a discipline Some majors prepare you for a specific career Not knowing what major is right for you is NORMAL. Majority of college students do not know what major to pursue when entering college Let s take a Look: What majors are you considering? Why are you considering these majors?
What Should I Consider When Selecting a Major? Look at your: Interests Hobbies Personality Careers What motivates you/gives you energy? Recommended: Take courses in an area that appeals to you Try to focus on a subject that is motivating Genuine Interest = College and Career Satisfaction
How do I Make a Decision? We can do exploration by learning more about ourselves and the majors that interest us. Let s Take a Look at Some Popular Websites: www.eureka.org Site ID Codes: SJC- WNY3OUX www.mymajors.com www.cacareercafe.com Occupational Outlook Handbook: www.bls.gov/oco Career Activities: Strong Interest Inventory Mind-Mapping Cluster Diagram Schedule a Counseling Appointment! MVC- ULWLIF6
What I Should Know about Majors The major you choose can help to direct your career. You are not stuck with your major. You are able to change your major before graduation. You are able to change a career path after graduation. Most people change careers about 4-5 times in their lifetime. Employers are looking for: Effective Communication Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Analytical Skills, Ability to Adapt to Change
After Selecting a Major- Academic Planning Update your Educational Goal Develop a comprehensive sixsemester Educational Plan with a Counselor Identify what universities you are interested in transferring to Use www.assist.org to identify classes needed for major
After Selecting A Major- Career Planning Continue to participate in exploration activities for self-development/self-awareness Websites to help with Exploration: www.eureka.org Site ID Codes: SJC- WNY3OUX www.mymajors.com www.careercafe.com Occupational Outlook Handbook: www.bls.gov/oco Which careers spark your interest? Get you motivated? Schedule an appointment with a counselor to identify/explore career paths MVC- ULWLIF6
Career Preparation If you are receiving a certificate/associate s degree from MSJC: Meet with your counselor each semester to discuss your transition from graduation into a career Visit the Career/Transfer Center for help with- Resume Cover Letter Searching for Jobs Attend the annual Career Fair Fill out an interest card for the Job Location Development Program
Career Preparation If you are transferring to a university: Each university will have an advisor from your department to provide more specialized information Advisors can help in looking at: Graduate school options Discussing career options Assisting with placement exams for graduate school Assist with finding research/internship opportunities The University will also have a Career Center on campus to receive help with: Searching for jobs Resumes and Cover Letters Further career exploration and development
Career Preparation- Finding a Job What makes competitive applicants? Let s name some ideas! What do you think employers are looking for?
Competitive Applicants Here are some we thought of: Become a member of professional associations Great way to network with professionals in your field Participate in community service Only activities that are meaningful to you- do not pad resume Look into professional programs/professional development Go on several interviews Even if you do not think you will take the position, go to the interview Builds confidence Builds effective communication skills Be proficient in computer applications, especially those the job description is asking for Be a team player Be a leader Effective communication Critical thinking skills Internships, Summer or Part-time jobs Build experience and provide networking opportunities
Things to Remember The world of work is rapidly changing. Employers are looking for candidates who can adapt to changes Flexibility is key Find a major that fits you By having a genuine interest in your studies, you will do well in school and have the knowledge you need to move into a successful career Your career will continue to change and you will be able to receive additional training Networking is a great way to find employment Take a look at the networking handout to help you build connections and relationships with people from your field Maintain a positive attitude Let s take a look at how to keep a great attitude. Changing your outlook builds confidence and helps you to be a valuable employee.
What do I do now? Meet with your counselor Discuss your educational goal, the majors that interest you and the careers that interest you Career Exploration Use the online resources we discussed Meet with your counselor to participate in career development activities Take a career inventory Job Preparation Start researching jobs in your field Look at the desired qualifications Begin to network Review resume and cover letter
Questions Counseling Department Career/Transfer Center San Jacinto Campus (951) 487-3255 Menifee Valley Campus (951) 639-5255 Temecula Education Complex (951) 308-1059 San Jacinto Campus (951) 487-3285 Menifee Valley Campus (951) 639-5285 San Gorgonio Pass Center (951) 922-1327