Sometimes, it can feel like we’re on a set track, but the truth is, most degrees open up a whole bunch of different doors. Let’s explore some ways we can uncover these exciting possibilities.

One of the first places we should look is right here on campus. Our professors, the very people teaching us, often have connections and insights into various career paths related to our field. Let’s make an effort to chat with them during office hours, not just about assignments, but about their own career journeys and the different roles they’ve seen people with our major take on. They might even know about internships or research opportunities that can give us a taste of different industries. Also, let’s not underestimate the power of our senior students and alumni. They were in our shoes not too long ago and have likely started exploring or even landed jobs in various fields. Let’s connect with them at student events or through university alumni networks. Hearing about their experiences firsthand can be incredibly eye-opening and give us practical advice.

Beyond the people we already know, let’s actively seek out information about different careers. Our university’s career services is a fantastic resource for this. They often have workshops, career fairs, and online tools that can help us understand the diverse job titles and industries that align with our major.  Let’s spend some time exploring these resources. We can also do our own digging online. Websites like LinkedIn and Gradlinc can give us a sense of the different roles people with our background are currently in. Let’s look at job descriptions, pay attention to the required skills, and see what kind of companies are hiring. Informational interviews are another powerful tool. Let’s reach out to professionals working in fields that pique our interest and ask if they’d be willing to chat with us briefly about their career path. Most people are happy to share their experiences, and this can give us invaluable insights into the day-to-day realities of different roles.

As we learn about these different paths, it’s important to reflect on what truly interests us and what our strengths are. Just because our major can lead to a certain career doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for us. Let’s think about the types of tasks we enjoy, the skills we excel at, and the kind of work environment where we would thrive. Trying out different things through internships, volunteering, or even personal projects can be incredibly helpful in figuring this out. These experiences give us a firsthand look at different industries and roles, helping us narrow down our options and build valuable skills along the way.

Exploring different career paths related to our major doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Let’s take it one step at a time, use the resources available to us, and be open to possibilities we might not have even considered yet. By actively seeking information, connecting with people, and reflecting on our own interests and skills, we can navigate our university years with a clearer sense of direction and set ourselves up for fulfilling careers after graduation. Let’s make the most of this time to explore and discover the exciting avenues our major can lead us down!

– Lucky Mulalo, Campus Ambassado