Considerations in Choosing a Career

• Abilities (skills, strengths, talents and personality strengths)
• Interests (activities, hobbies, likes)
• Job Values
• Job security
• Prestige
• Salary
• Opportunities for advancement
• Retirement/Investment options
• Benefits (insurance, vacation time, etc.)
• Challenge/high achievement
• Independence (be your own boss)
• Hours/Schedule
• Work environment
• Travel
• Previous experience
• Skills developed
• Likes/dislikes
• Job Market/Employment Outlook
• How competitive is it to secure a position?
• Where are positions available?
• Economic Considerations
• Starting salary
• Maximum salary
• Earning ladder
• Benefits (insurance, vacation, personal leaves, education, etc.)
• Pension
• Job Description (responsibilities, hours, type of people and environment)
• Challenges of job
• Pros and cons of job
• Amount of Education/Training Required
• Look at both the short-term and long-term costs and payoffs. In the long run, it may be worth the investment.

 Career/Job Shadowing

Students are encouraged to shadow and observe someone in their field of interest. The following is a list of general guidelines to follow when shadowing a professional in the student’s indicated career field: 

• Dress appropriately. The student’s style of dress should mirror the person they are shadowing.
• Be prompt. You and your mentor should establish the time for your arrival and departure.
• Be polite – to everyone you meet. Remember you are there as your mentor’s guest and it is wise to make a favorable impression.
• Ask questions throughout the day. That is how you learn.
• Interview your mentor. Establish a time, which is convenient for your mentor. Take thorough notes.
• Have your mentor sign the job shadowing experience form before you leave.
• Thank your mentor, as well as anyone who helped you, before you leave.