Career Exploration Help

It is that time in the semester when you may be thinking of registration for next semester, that summer internship (but doing what???) , or your career future after graduation (Grad school? A job? But what field???).  Students have found these services offered by the University Counseling Center helpful in clarifying and focusing career directions with regard to choosing an academic major, a career after graduation, and/or deciding on graduate education. It’s pretty difficult to make these decisions unless you know what you want! So here are some options to help you get focused:

Majors Walk-In on Wednesdays through April 24th for students who aren’t sure of their academic majors or aren’t sure they can be successful in their intended or current major. Students can walk-in without an appointment anytime 1-3pm on Wednesdays, (with the exception of  March 20 and 27). You will be introduced and oriented to SIGI 3 is a self-paced career information system where you can identify careers and majors that would be suitable to your interests, values and personality.

Career Discovery Zone on Select Thursdays in March/April. This 5-session workshop series explores topics like how to charge of career future, how your interests and skills align with potential career paths, how your values can unlock doors to your career future, how to manage stresses and barriers when you are in the midst of any career decision,  and more! No registration needed, just show up to one or all of the workshops. See the attached flyer or call the Counseling Center (301-314-7651) for additional information and dates.

Individual Career Counseling by Appointment. As always, if you want more individual support as you explore academic majors, career paths, graduate schools or other career-related decisions, individual career counseling and career assessments can be very beneficial.  Individual counseling is also helpful if you are experiencing other stressors such as academic difficulty, health issues, family or personal concerns, as well as career questions. Call us now to make an appointment: 301-314-7651.

And did you know that you can get credit for exploring your career future?? Check these two courses out:

EDCP 108c: Choosing a Major-1 cr. Several sections of this course are offered both fall and spring semesters. Students can explore majors (and careers) that are consistent with their interests, values, and academic goals within a small, interactive classroom setting. Best suited to 1^st and 2^nd year students; juniors by permission. Sections are limited to 20 students.

EDCP 499a:Transition to Careers in a Global Workplace-2 cr. This course is offered to juniors and seniors who need to clarify career and educational plans following graduation. Best suited for upper-level students who are ready to explore career paths in preparation for seeking internship, jobs, and graduate education. Because of continued high demand for this course, register early!

Don’t leave your career future to chance—take advantage of these services to help you focus your efforts and make decisions that will enhance your future!

Linda K. Gast, PhD, LCPC

Licensed Clinical Counselor

University Counseling Center

Asst. Professor (affiliate)

Counseling, Higher Education, & International Education

University of Maryland

1129 Shoemaker Building

College park, MD 20742

www.counseling.umd.edu

Tele:  301-314-7668

Fax:   301-314-9206