Where Do I Start?
Ask a professor in your department about conducting
research
Many professors need students to assist with research in the library, laboratory, and field. Some professors even pay students to perform research. If possible, conduct research on a topic that is related to the career you are considering. Undergraduate research is an excellent way to test fields of interest. A bonus is that you’ll form a professional relationship with a faculty member who can give you career advice and write letters of recommendation.
Obtain an internship
Obtain a summer, part-time, volunteer, and/or co-op internship. Internships allow you to test your fields of interest. You will also gain experience and meet valuable contacts.
Join an academic or professional society related to
your field of interest
Academic clubs and professional societies offer many resources to help you choose a career. Professional societies provide the opportunity to network with professionals in your field of interest. Often, you can join professional societies as a student member and receive all of the benefits of membership at a reduced price.
Shadow professionals and talk to alumni
One of the best ways to test a potential career path is to spend time shadowing a professional. Local doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and other professionals are usually quite happy to talk to you and show you what types of tasks their job encompasses. Also, contact alumni and ask them about the nature of their work and how they prepared for their chosen career.
Explore, explore, explore
Explore the careers you’re interested in as much as possible. Visit the university’s
Career Services center, read about careers in the school library, and search the internet to learn more about specific jobs.
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Careers