Pursue

Building a successful career is similar to setting off on an extended road trip. You need to have an end in mind, even if it is something as general as riding off into the sunset! Developing a career strategy will help you align your accomplishments with your aspirations and goals to map out a career path. Career strategizing is not about strict guidelines. There is always room for shifts, balances, side-exits and grand entrances. There is value in both the positive and negative experiences you have along the way because they will help you gain further clarity and focus.

“The best way to predict your future is to create it” ~anonymous

It is now your turn to make things happen in your career planning process.  This step deals with goals:  identifying what you want, creating the action plan, and putting your plan into action.

The best way to achieve your goals is to write them down, keep them SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-limited), and start working towards them today!  No time like the present.

Action Plan
Your action plan will probably consist of a variety of things.  Such as:

-start right away
-create a portfolio or update resume
-completing admission requirements
-getting the grades
-applying for admission
-figure out a place to live
-financing your education (student loans, scholarships, line of credit, and maybe the bank of mom/dad/guardian)
-volunteering or gaining valuable work experience
-setting up informational interviews or job shadows
-Networking is about building relationships with people through formal meetings, informal conversations/gatherings, by telephone, through email, spontaneous and/or planned occasions. It’s one of the most valuable activities in career orientation, information gathering and opportunity-seeking!

The average cost of post-secondary education is between $8000 and $14000 per year depending on the school, program and living arrangements.  It can be quite expensive, so it is important to remember that your education is an investment and to start planning for it.  Go to the funding section of this document for more information.

Goal Setting Website :    MindTools