Step-by-Step Career Worksheet

Which Jobs Will Work for You?

One moment, after reading about a court case in the news, you may decide you want to be a trial lawyer. The next, after seeing a wildlife documentary, an alligator wrangler. How do you channel all of these ideas?

Step 1: Think about what interests you

Start with a general area of interest, such as working with kids, then come up with jobs that fall into that category. Need help? Think about people you've read about or met who have interesting jobs, or use the career quizzes that are available in your counselor's office or online.

Step 2: Consider how to get there

No, you don't have to plan your whole life right now. But it helps to think about what kinds of classes or special degrees you might need. You might find you don't like any of the classes you'd need to take, for example, which would certainly tell you something. To get information about education requirements for different jobs, use Major & Career Profiles.

Step 3: Give it a whirl

Once you focus on possible jobs, try to really dive into them:

Volunteer somewhere that's in a similar field.
Look into a paid or unpaid internship.
Shadow someone to see a day-in-the-life.
Research, by visiting your library or useful website.
Find a mentor who can give you perspective and advice.

Even if you decide not to pursue a related career, you'll have gained valuable experience and given your college application a boost.

The key to all of this is to get a better understanding of various jobs, what you like doing, what you want to be, and who you are.