It is important to have accurate information about the world of work because we can easily make career decisions based on faulty assumptions. We need solid information to make good decisions. Knowing what a career is really like is important to decide if it is right for you! Accurate information, not TV or movie portrayals should be the basis for your decision. Look at several sources of information, talk with people in your field of interest and experience the careers through shadowing, volunteering, internship or part time jobs. There are several ways to find out about occupations.
- Info to look for when investigating careers
- -Typical daily activities
- -Necessary knowledge and skills
- -Job settings
- -Salary
- -Future job outlook/demand
- -Required education and training
- Talk to a Professional For Specific Career Advice
- Talking to people in your field of interest about their jobs is an excellent way to get up-to-date information. Most people are very willing to discuss their work with you. These types of interactions are frequently called informational interviews.
- Externships
- The Illini Externship Program offers an opportunity to bring professionals ( University of Illinois Alums) and college students (freshman-junior) together in the workplace.
Skills Links
Recommended Sites about Different Occupations
- CIS (Career Information System)
- Comprehensive guide to careers, majors, & schools
- Occupational Outlook Handbook
- Describes over 300 occupations that account for 91% of all jobs in the US.
- O*NET Online
- Information on over 900 occupations.
- Job Star Guides for Specific Careers
- Links to sites with information about a wide variety of careers.
- Business Careers and Liberal Arts Majors
- Job myths, realities, and strategies for Liberal Arts students.
