Exploring careers - Freshman & Sophomores

Freshman Year

• Use the Focus 2 online assessment program.
  This web-based self-assessment program allows you to learn about yourself, what types of majors and careers may match your interests and abilities and what educational path you'll need to take to pursue those careers. Schedule your follow-up appointment with a Career Advisor to discuss the results and get started on your career plan.

• Schedule an appointment with a Career Counselor.
  Learn what cool fields with bright futures fit your needs and goals. Early career planning with a Career Counselor will ensure you have the right skills to be the top candidate and increase your chances of getting that internship and full time job upon graduation!

• Check out the "What Can I Do with This Major" list. This provides you with career titles for EIU majors and includes links to industry information. Great resource to research different careers.

• Join a Registered Student Organization or Club.
  Get out and meet other students and develop collaboration skills and an understanding and sensitivity to diversity.

• Develop good study habits and keep your grades up.
  Employers want candidates with a good academic record.

• Complete an Externship.
  Test drive your career choice by completing an Externship (job shadowing) experience. This is an excellent opportunity for you to determine if this is the right fit for you and it may very well open doors for future internships and full time jobs. It has worked for other EIU grads!

• Gain summer work experience.
  Get experience related to your major or career field. Establish a record of reliability and productivity in a work setting. Be sure to get a letter of recommendation from your employer.

• Connect with employers at our Career Fairs and develop your networking skills.
  Even as a freshman you should attend the career fairs to gather information on potential careers and employers.

• Log into HANDSHAKE
  Gain access to summer jobs, internships, employer/industry information, post your resume, schedule on-campus interviews & more!

 

Sophomore Year

• Participate in student organizations/clubs.
  Seek leadership positions and take an active role to gain work-related skills. Don't limit your success to the classroom!

• Schedule an appointment with a Career Counselor.
  Confirm your career interests and start working on the skills needed to be successful.

• Attend Career Services workshops.
  Get information on resumes, interviewing, job search strategies, dining etiquette, and more!

• Complete an Externship.
  Test drive your career choice by completing an Externship (job shadowing) experience. Even if you did one as a Freshman, do another one, if needed.

• Gain summer work experience.
  Get experience related to your major or career field. Establish a record of reliability and productivity in a work setting. Be sure to get a letter of recommendation from your employer.

• Research internship possibilities.
  Start exploring your options for an internship experience in your Junior or Senior year.

• Develop your resume
  Review tips and examples on Career Services website. Have your resume critiqued by a Career Advisor for suggestions.

• Connect with employers at Career Fairs.
  Excellent opportunity to gather information on potential careers and employers. Build your confidence in speaking and networking with recruiters.

• Log into HANDSHAKE
  If you have not done so already, log into HANDSHAKE to gain access to summer jobs, internships, employer/industry information, on-campus interviews & more!

• Keep your grades up.
  GPA is often considered for internships and full time opportunities. Don't forget why you are here.