Center for Career Development
Step 3: Career Experience
Gaining directly related experience is the best way to know if a given career is for you. If you do your career exploration carefully, you will have a good idea of whether the career you are considering is what you want, but you won't know for sure until you try it. In addition, you will need to have directly related experience on your resume when you look for that first full-time job. People gain career experience in several ways:
Entry-level jobs
If you are about to graduate and do not already have experience in your chosen field, you may be able to get it by taking an entry-level position. Many companies have training programs designed to give you experience on the job.
Internships
Internships offer an outstanding opportunity to learn about a career field, gain practical experience and make contacts who can help you find your first job. Internships can be paid or unpaid; for credit or not for credit. You can do them full-time in the summer or part- time while you go to school. Many internships are available to students after they graduate. Most academic departments have internship programs in which you can participate for academic credit. Check with your department chairperson, or use the Career Center's resources to find Internships on the web.
Summer Jobs
Summer jobs provide a way to earn money for school, but they are also good opportunities to gain career experience. If you start looking early, you may be able to land a job which allows you to try out a career you are considering. Check out our Summer Jobs Resources on the web.
Part-time Jobs
Many students work part-time to earn money for school. Part-time positions can also be used to gain career related work experience. There are many jobs on campus or in the local community which can help you build your resume while you earn spending money. For information about Part-time jobs on and off-campus, please contact the Financial Aid office.
Volunteer Work
Volunteering your time is an excellent way to get career related work experience. Most organizations welcome volunteers who can provide them with extra help while the volunteer learns about interesting careers and makes some contacts in the field. Check out our Service Resources to find out about service organizations on campus, and also to find contact information for local businesses and organizations that often need volunteers.
Student Activities
Campus clubs and organizations offer a chance to develop leadership skills as well as learning more about possible careers. Writers can develop a portfolio by contributing to campus publications. People interested in theater can try out for plays. Student government representatives learn about how the democratic process works. Any organization you join will help you learn something which may be of use in your career. Check out our Student Organizations for a list of clubs and organizations you could join. If you don't see an organization in an area of your specific interest, start one.
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