Start by:
- Learning about the types of related, practical experience available as a co-op or intern student in your areas of interest
- Testing new skills and try diverse experiences
- Deciding the type of organization in which to volunteer or work
- Assessing likes and dislikes of work values, skills, work environments, responsibilities, etc.
- Assessing if additional/different coursework or skills are needed for your targeted career goals
- Click here to look at the Informational Interview Questionnaire
Competency Areas
- Improve interpersonal, written and oral communication skills
- Gain an appreciation for working with individuals from diverse cultures
- Understand and practice ethical behavior
- Gain supervisory/leadership/teamwork skills
- Enhance self-management skills
- Obtain work related, transferable skills
- Develop conflict resolution skills
Click here to see competencies defined.
Strategies for Gaining Competencies
Strategies are those concrete items that lead you to acquiring a specific goal or competency.
- Participate in the Alumni Extern Program
- Complete a co-op, intern or volunteer experience in your area of interest
- Work part-time or during summer to acquire new skills and experiences
- Choose course electives to compliment your career goals
- Conduct Informational Interviews
- Attend Career/Job Fairs
- Attend relevant conferences and seminars
- Participate in student exchange or Study Abroad program
- Become familiar with work settings and job descriptions
- Practice making decisions by supervising a group of people
- Act as a leader in a student or civic organization
- Practice public speaking in classes or in organizations
- Tutor students in various subjects
- Develop a new campus organization
- Talk to alumnus/a about your career goals
- Join a professional organization
