Step Three: Relevant/Practical Experience
In Step III you commence to evaluate occupational alternatives and obtain practical experience through internships, cooperative education, relevant summer employment, volunteer work and campus activities. You will start to make more concrete decisions about occupational choices and confirm the decisions made during Step II.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.
- 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.
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.
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