Career Plan for Graduate Students 

Create a pathway for success.

Explore yourself.

Explore your options.

  • Research your options using Occupational Outlook Handbook and O*NET OnLine.
  • Review “What Can I Do with This Degree?”
  • Network with professionals currently in the field.
  • Login to your Handshake account and explore available opportunities.
  • Check out job posting boards to see what the market holds for those in your field.
  • Attend Career Expo and other campus recruiting events.
  • Discuss your career interest with faculty to learn about careers achieved by alumni of your program.
  • Join professional organizations for your discipline and field of interest.
  • Contact organizations of interest and request an informational interview.

Confirm through experience.

  • Assess the gap between current skills and those needed in your target occupation.
  • Take on a teaching assistantship or graduate assistant position related to your field.
  • Connect with faculty to learn about available research opportunities.
  • Make conference presentations in your field both on and off campus to establish your reputation.
  • Shadow a professional in your field of interest during breaks.
  • Seek out and secure an internship, summer job or other work experience related to your goal.
  • Use your internship to connect with professionals in the field to expand options and professional network.
  • While in your internship, volunteer for projects that will help you develop needed hands-on skills.
  • Volunteer to round out your skills.
  • Take on a leadership role in a student or community organization.

Polish your professional presentation.

 

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