An important dimension of career development and research includes test driving careers to see if there is a fit.

By talking to others, taking classes, and joining organizations, you can gain a great deal of knowledge about yourself and your field of interest.

You can obtain direct experience by participating in internships, volunteer work, part-time jobs, and summer jobs.

Experiential learning is “learning by doing” and is a great way to gain experience which helps connect classroom theory to the “real world.” The following list includes some ideas for "learning by doing" as well as other avenues to investigate possible career paths.

• Conduct Informational Interviews
• Job shadow/observe someone in a career of interest
• Take one or two classes in the career areas you are considering.
• Join student and professional organizations related to your career interests
• Attend workshops, seminars, and special events sponsored by academic departments, student and professional organizations, and community groups.
• Talk with students who have chosen this major/career about where they obtained related experience and what they plan to do in the career when they graduate
• Find part-time employment and summer jobs
• Find relevant volunteer and Service Learning experiences
• Find Internships
• Participate in Research Opportunities
• Study Abroad
• Attend Career Fairs