Career Exploration for High School Students

I've been struggling to figure out what I want to study in college. What are some helpful resources or activities that can help me explore different careers before I apply to colleges? I don't want to feel lost when I'm deciding on schools and majors!

It's quite common for high school students to feel uncertain about their future majors and careers, so don't worry! There are several ways to explore different careers and gain insights into potential majors:

1. Career/Interest Assessments: Online assessments such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Holland Code (RIASEC), or even the CollegeVine Major Finder can help you understand your personality, preferences, and aptitudes. They can provide a list of careers or majors that might be a good fit for you based on your strengths and interests.

2. Job Shadowing: Reach out to professionals in fields that interest you and ask if you can shadow them for a day or two. This will give you a firsthand look at what it's like to work in a specific career and help you determine if it's something you'd enjoy pursuing.

3. Internships and Volunteer Work: Look for internships or volunteer opportunities in your areas of interest. Gaining practical experience in a field, even for a short time, can help you understand the day-to-day tasks and responsibilities, as well as help you make valuable connections.

4. Informational Interviews: Conduct informational interviews with professionals in various careers. Prepare a list of questions to ask them about their work, educational background, and career path. This will give you a better understanding of the skills and education needed for their line of work, as well as any challenges or rewards they've encountered.

5. Local College Events: Attend college open houses, career fairs, or workshops in your community. These events provide a chance to meet representatives from different colleges and learn more about the majors and programs they offer.

6. Career Research: Investigate different careers online or in library resources, such as the Occupational Outlook Handbook or ONET OnLine. These can provide you with information about job duties, educational requirements, salary, job outlook, and more.

7. Extracurricular Activities and Clubs: Join clubs or participate in extracurricular activities that align with your interests or potential career paths. This is an excellent opportunity to explore different fields, gain hands-on experience, and develop valuable skills.

8. Course Selection: Take elective courses in high school that relate to your career interests. This will give you an opportunity to delve deeper into subjects that may lead to potential majors in college.

Remember, it's normal to feel uncertain about your future at this stage, and you may even change your major or career path several times throughout your life. The important thing is to stay curious, be proactive in exploring your options, and keep an open mind. Good luck!