Figuring out a career path can be overwhelming, confusing, and just plain stressful, but it doesn't have to be! The career development process outlined here can help you better understand yourself and what majors and careers may be a good fit for you, as well as help you clarify your educational, career and personal goals. Click on each career development stage below to learn more, take self-assessments, access helpful resources and start planning your way to a great career.

Four Steps to Defining Your Career Path

Understanding your strengths and interests is key to finding a career or major that is right for you. The four steps in this process are:

TAKE CAREER ASSESSMENTS:

What type of work would you most enjoy and be successful at performing? Your interests, values, skills, and personality factors play a significant role in answering this question. Check out two free, online career assessments and identify the careers and industries most suited to you.

EXPLORE CAREER PATHS:

What is the scope of majors in your areas of interest? What career path would you expect to follow? Use a variety of resources like career outlooks, salary information, and job descriptions to understand how well careers align with who you are.

MAKE CAREER DECISIONS:

Are you ready to focus your efforts and prepare for your chosen career path? Hone in on your top career options, develop your goals, and make informed decisions about your major courses of study and the career you will pursue.

PLAN YOUR NEXT STEPS:

How can you best enter your chosen field? Do you need an internship? What types of experience will help you land a job? Find ways to get involved and start gaining experience while preparing for the world of work.

Stay flexible and be curious about unexpected opportunities and possibilities you may encounter. You would be surprised by how many professionals found their career path through 'chance' events such as talking to someone on an airplane, attending a networking event, or even taking a GE class or gaining a new technical skill that sparked a major or career pivot. Katie Ottoson, Career Counselor

Career Development Process

Explore Career Paths

  • Occupational Research
  • Academic Major Research
  • Industry Trends
  • Salary Information

Make Career Decisions

  • Informed Decision Making
  • Goal Setting
  • Action Planning
  • Focus and Flexibility

Prepare for Your Career

  • Build a Network
  • Job Search Tools
  • Gain Experience
  • Define Your Brand

Take Career Assessments

  • Values
  • Skills
  • Personality
  • Interests

 

Career Development Process Chart
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Watson Hall, 3rd Floor

(714) 432-5576

CareerCenter@occ.cccd.edu

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Entrance of the Career Center office

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