Your career development shouldn't be a hit-or-miss process-let us formulate a plan for career success. The following is a suggested list of tasks to complete along the way.

Your Freshman Year:

• Schedule an appointment with Business Career Services to familiarize yourself with our services and resources

• Use our Career Library to familiarize yourself with the different occupations/fields in the work world

• Begin building a resume

• Attend Business/Liberal Arts & Sciences Career Fairs to gather information on potential careers

• Talk to as many people as you can (faculty, alumni, advisors, and career advisors) about potential majors and careers

• Become involved in university organizations and activities

• Consider part-time jobs, summer work, volunteer positions, and internships

Your Sophomore Year:

• Research career fields by completing information interviews

• Utilize instruments such as Career Leader College to help realize your skills and strengths

• Look into experiential learning opportunities or Internships/Co-ops in your areas of interest

• Explore at least 3 career options available to you through your major

• Work toward leadership positions in your clubs and activities

• Join at least one professional organization in your interest area

• Continue building your resume

Your Junior Year:

• Have your resume and cover letter critiqued

• Begin to narrow your career interests

• Participate in an experiential learning opportunity

• Attend Career Fairs to network with potential employers

• Research potential employers using the Career Library and the Internet

• Schedule a mock interview to sharpen your interviewing skills

• Consider taking Bus Ad 301 - Professional Employment Preparation

Your Senior Year:

• Have your updated resume and cover letter critiqued

• Access your ISU CMS account in late August to participate in on-campus recruiting

• Begin contacting employers of interest to you

• Gather information on realistic salary expectations

• Keep detailed records of your job search

• Make an appointment with Career Services if you need help with your job search

• Evaluate your job offers and choose the one best for you

• Report your job offers and acceptance to Career Services

Adapted from the Planning Job Choices 1999 article, Climb to Your Career in Four Years.