This course assists students with self-exploration and provides a model to integrate academic and experiential skills into the process of career planning. 

Elements include: exploring academic and other “good experiences” to identify Dependable Strengths; individual self-assessment; group interaction/discussion; and experiential learning.  Emphasis is placed on early planning and acquiring decision-making skills, so that students can make informed choices related to courses of study, internships, volunteer activities and community service while acquiring marketable skills.

Students will be given the tools to conduct an effective career search in the context of the changing nature of work.

Credit will be awarded based upon class attendance, participation and the completion of assignments. Involvement in class activities and assignments will provide you with a greater understanding of the application of the principles discussed in class and will enhance your career planning efforts.  This class is designed to be an invaluable investment in you!

1.       Explore the vital link between university learning and the world of work through self-assessment of interests and personality and the identification of Dependable Strengths, skills, and values.

2.       Formulate a planned approach to academic and career management while making informed choices and setting realistic goals.

3.       Develop a career action plan for the remainder of the university experience which may include: conducting career research; evaluating college major options; participating in internships and career-related work experiences; participating in clubs and associations; and networking with professionals.

4.       Develop a personal Career Portfolio Collection including a descriptive summary, resumes, letters of reference, work samples, certificates/awards, and other examples of accomplishments.

5.       Learn methods to conduct an effective job search in today's workplace while understanding ethical considerations.

1.     Assigned exercises.  These will be integrated into class discussions.

2.     Career Assessments. All students will complete the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the Strong Interest Inventory (SII). There is a nominal fee ($20 per test) to cover the cost of these assessments. The fee is to be paid at the Counseling Center in 401 Schmitz Hall where instructions for the assessments will be given.

3.  Career Fairs (optional). Students will be encouraged to attend one of several career fairs and events during the quarter (see current quarter syllabus for details).

4.  Informational Interview.  A written summary and in-class report of this in-person conversation with a contact in one's field of interest is required.

5.     Electronic Career Portfolio Collection (optional). An electronic portfolio tool will be used to create a career portfolio collection based on class assignments that may include a personal description paragraph, samples of your accomplishments, a resume and any other materials that demonstrate your experiences, effectiveness and potential.

6.    Interview Portfolio.  An interview portfolio will be created to be used during the mock interview final project to apply for an internship, entry into a major, a scholarship, grad school application, or a career position.

7.  Appointment with a career counselor (optional). Time will be scheduled to meet with a career counselor to discuss your career goals, begin an action plan, and provide guidance for completing the Interview Portfolio and final project.

8.      Mock Interview Final Project.  Completion of this requirement involves a culmination of your class learnings in conducting a mock interview with Career Center staff using your Interview Portfolio. See details below.

2007 - 2008 Career Guide. University of Washington Career Center. UWCC Gold Guide http://depts.washington.edu/careers/pdf/careerguide.pdf (Provided)

The Career Fitness Program: Exercising Your Options. (8th Edition). Diane Sukiennik, William Bendat & Lisa Raufman. Pearson Prentice Hall. 2008. CFP renhall.com/sukiennikwww.p  (Optional)

Do What You Are. (3rd Edition). Paul D. Tieger and Barbara Barron-Tieger. Little, Brown and Company, 2001. DWYA (Optional)

Job Choices 2008 (51st Edition). National Association of Colleges and Employers. 2007. JC2008 www.jobweb.com (Provided)

Major in Success. (4th Edition). Patrick Combs. Ten Speed Press, 2003. MS (Optional)

Majoring in the Rest of Your Life. (4th Edition). Carol Carter. Lifebound, 2004. MRYL www.lifebound.com/lifebound-books/majoring-rest-life.htm (Optional)

Roadtrip Nation. Nathan Gebhard, Mike Marriner, and JoAnne Gordon. Ballantine, 2003. RTN www.roadtripnation.com/store_products.php?category=book  (Optional)

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