When students think about major selection, career planning, and job searching, sometimes they limit these decisions just to an occupational choice and/or a salary figure. Although I respect and clarify these values in my students, as a professional in this field, I would like to empower students to start thinking about their careers as much more.

Career decision-making is an opportunity to think about who you are and who you want to be; it is about finding meaning and purpose in life; it is about being truthful to yourself and becoming a significant contributor to society. In sum, it is a role that will allow you to make a living, but more importantly, will allow you to pursue meaning, develop a sense of purpose and integrity.

A professional choice is a critical decision that college students face as they attempt to establish identity and a sense of purpose in life. This can be a scary and serious introspection, in that it will determine a person’s future. This introspection requires an honest look at who you are in terms of personality, interests (what you like), abilities (what you are good at), and values (what’s important for you). This is a process that helps students develop an understanding of the relationship between self-concept and academic/career choices. It is a process that requires exploration and decision-making skills, understanding the value of risk taking, and learning to compromise.

“Career decision-making is an opportunity to think about who you are and who you want to be, it is about finding meaning and purpose in life, it is about being truthful to yourself and becoming a significant contributor to society. In sum, it is a role that will allow you to make a living, but more importantly, will allow you to pursue meaning, develop a sense of purpose, and integrity.”

The process of choosing majors, identifying potential career paths, selecting internships/jobs, and applying to graduate/professional schools may be sources of excitement and/or stress for students. Learning how to manage these emotions, among other emotions, is critical. Moreover, learning how to negotiate these decisions with significant others is a process that requires interpersonal competencies and students developing a sense of autonomy while balancing supportive and/or challenging environments.

In a dynamic and global job market, these tasks tend to be achieved when you learn how to integrate your own needs and skills with the social and historical demands of your culture. It is a decision that is affected by familial, social, cultural, economical, and political factors. Therefore, learning how to make informed, realistic and satisfying major/career choices is important to your well-being and that of your community. Thinking about how your skills can serve your community adds to your identity as a new professional. Hopefully, you will realize that choosing a career is not only about developing an occupational role but also assuming a role as a citizen.

Through a particular academic option, career choices, and/or satisfying occupations, you can appreciate the value of career development as a life-long meaningful experience.

Visit Career Connection located on the second floor at the Younkin Success Center. Students can call (614) 688-3898 to make an appointment or come during walk-ins hours. Visit Career Connection on the web at http://www.careerconnection.osu.edu to become familiar with our services, career events on campus, and career-related links.