What do a C.I.A. Agent, Surfboard Engineer, Dentist, Singing Lawyer, Archaeologist, Bakery Owner, Panda Caregiver, Radio Host, and International Aid Worker all have in common? They are careers that Penn State Harrisburg students aspire to achieve.
–Katy Rush, Career Services Counselor
Career Services recently asked students to share their dream careers and discuss their passions in honor of November being National Career Development Month. Over 200 careers were recorded on colorful paint chips that will be displayed in the case across from Biscotti’s in Olmsted until November 20. The aim of this celebration was to connect more students to the resources offered by Career Services and to educate them on how to build related experience and explore careers.
Choosing a major or a career is one of the most important decisions an individual will make. What you do or are interested in becomes part of your identity. For many, career is tied to one’s purpose in life. Passion and purpose equal meaning. So ask yourself, what creates meaning for you? What passion colors your perspective on the world and how you interact with it, and how does that passion fill you with purpose?
Not sure? That’s okay! Begin by inventorying your interests. Reflect upon favorite school subjects, hobbies, toys, books, afterschool activities, and summer jobs. What did you like and dislike about them? Often times, similar themes, topics, or skill sets emerge. Is there a subject you can’t stop talking about or always find yourself web-surfing?
Many career centers offer assessments to help students analyze their interests and how that relates to careers and major choices. At Penn State Harrisburg, students can take the MyPlan assessment for free by contacting Career Services. This user-friendly tool allows takers to assess their personality, interests, values, and skills. It then provides helpful insights into choosing a major and career path based upon your results. Students are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment to discuss their results with a Career Counselor and to make an action plan for exploring their curiosities.
In fact, Brett Simpson, Principal Partner of LEEP (Leadership and Executive Education Program), is a strong believer in curiosity. His inquisitiveness has led him to travel, climb, paddle, bicycle, and backpack throughout the United States, Canada, Peru, Mexico, Ethiopia, Costa Rica, and Ecuador. On November 8, Brett spoke at the Senior Transitions Conference in Harrisburg (co-hosted by Penn State Harrisburg and several other institutions) where his message to students was to “follow curiosities.” He stressed the importance of experiential learning and that one must “make and take opportunities.” Internships, volunteer, research, and entrepreneurial opportunities drive individuals to gain insight about themselves and develop skills. Brett also preached the value of finding mentors and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals with whom you can explore your curiosities. Lastly, he reminded students to “celebrate successes along the way.” It’s crucial to break larger goals down into smaller ones, to create an action plan, stop to do perception checks, and to not be afraid to change directions.
Begin your journey today and explore your curiosity with a Career Counselor by phoning us at 717-948-6260 or coming to our office in 216 Educ Act Bldg to schedule an appointment. We want to hear what colors your passion and to help you find a major that will create purpose and bring meaning to your career!
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