Post-Graduate Opportunities
Looking to explore in-demand careers and discover the degrees or credentials needed to pursue them? Use Pathfinder, Michigan’s online career exploration tool that uses current information related to employment and the workforce, as well as data about the relationship between education and training programs, to help you learn about career paths and jobs in the state. Start the journey at www.Pathfinder.MiTalent.org.
Resources
Ideally, everyone would discover their true calling early in life and find happiness in their future careers. But it often doesn’t work that way. For those who have yet to discover their career passion, follow this list of tips to help you choose and prepare for a career path that’s right for you.
EXPLORATION
- If you are a student, get to know your guidance counselor. They can connect you to resources, scholarships and deadlines to help ensure the process is not overwhelming.
- Talk to those you admire (parents, coaches, teachers, colleagues) about what you want to do and how you might go about doing it.
- Use Pathfinder to research what programs are offered in the fields that interest you most. Check out the results of different levels of training/education to see the benefits of getting more training or schooling.
PREPARATION
- While you’re in school, challenge yourself in your classes. Ask about Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes available in career fields that interest you.
- Consider working or volunteering in school or community activities, at workshops or at camps that allow you to explore career interests.
- Research training institutions or postsecondary schools by going to their websites and talking to current students to discover what they like about going there or what they’ve learned while attending.
- Attend college fairs and presentations by college representatives.
- Check out registered apprenticeships or other work-based learning opportunities in some career fields. These are great opportunities to EARN while you LEARN.
COLLEGE/TRAINING PROGRAM BOUND
- If you decide to go to college or attend a training program, visit the locations that interest you most. Some even offer virtual tours!
- Make sure you know when you need to fill out a financial aid form so you don’t miss an opportunity to get support.
- Find a mentor - particularly someone in the field you’re interested in. They can share insights and information with you about what the career is truly like.
