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Career Exploration

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Career Exploration
Career Assessments
Career Resources
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On-Campus Hours:
Mon – Thurs: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Virtual Hours:
Mon – Fri: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Closed Weekends and Holidays

Phone
(714) 895-8217

Career Exploration Process - See text below for the Four Phases

PHASE 1: Who am I?

This phase involves getting to who you are. Who you really are - is the first step of career exploration. You will have the opportunity to engage in many different career assessments or schedule appointments to initiate a conversation with a counselor. Assessments allow you to learn more about your values, character strengths, personality preferences, interests, skills, and abilities. Each assessment will help you gain a better understanding of who you are and where you may best fit in the world of work.

Tools to consider for Phase 1:

Assessments and Career Resources
Counseling Courses
- Counseling G104 - Career and Life Planning
- Pathways Courses - Counseling G150-G156 (by subject/major area)
Counseling Appointments
Career Center

PHASE 2: What’s Out There?

Figuring out what’s out there involves tons of research. Once you have taken time to research yourself and gain a stronger understanding of who you are, you can begin to explore what types of careers might best be suited to you. This phase involves online research, talking to professionals in the field, and gaining hands-on exposure through volunteer work or internship experience.

Tools to consider for Phase 2:

O*NET
Occupational Outlook Handbook
Counseling Appointments
Career Assessments
Informational Interviews
Candid Career
Vocational Biographies
LinkedIn
GWC Catalog
College and University Websites

PHASE 3: What Factors Might Affect My Choice?

In Phase 3, you will take time to explore factors that may affect your choice and start making some decisions. It is important to use your creative thinking skills to come up with alternative “right” answers to factors that may present an obstacle to pursuing your career choice.

Who am I?
What's out there?
What affects my choice?
Where do I go now?

Common factors to consider: Time, Finances, Location, Family/Personal, Decision-Making Style

Tools to consider for Phase 3:

Counseling Courses
- Counseling G104 - Career and Life Planning
- Pathways Courses - Counseling G150-G156 (by subject/major area)
Self-Reflection
Knowledge of Learning and Decision-Making preferences
Counseling Appointments
Career Assessments

PHASE 4: Where Do I Go From Here?

It may seem odd to be thinking about life after college if you are just getting started! You will soon be making decisions about your future, and regardless of the direction you may choose, there is a lot you can do while still in college. You will need to focus your studies by choosing a major. You should find opportunities to explore the careers that interest you. You can ensure that you are building the right kind of experience on which to base a successful career. These steps will make your dreams come to life and make them achievable.

Tools to consider for Phase 4:

Educational Planning (MAP/ Academic Counseling)
Counseling Courses
- Counseling G104 - Career and Life Planning
- Pathways Courses - Counseling G150-G156 (by subject/major area)
Counseling Appointments
Internships
Job Exploration
Networking