The steps of career development include:

Self-assessment

• Learning more about yourself, including skills, interests and values
• Considering what you like, what you are good at and what is most important to you
• Analyzing past experiences, considering what you’ve liked and disliked
• Identifying your strengths and weaknesses, as well as abilities you want to develop
• Thinking about your greatest accomplishments

Exploration

• Learning more about different majors and possible career paths
• Researching career fields to determine your level of interest
• Using the Internet and print materials for research, as well as speaking to people
• Conducting informational interviews with professors, alumni and professionals to learn more about career fields
• Gaining experience through campus activities, part-time jobs and internships

Decision-Making/Gaining Experience

• Putting your self-assessment and exploration information together to create a career plan
• Continuing to gain experience through internships and other hands-on exposure to careers
• Networking and conducting informational interviews to generate opportunities
• Determining whether employment or graduate school is part of your post-college plan

Self-marketing

• Developing the tools and skills you need for a job or internship search
• Creating a strong resume and cover letter
• Honing interview skills
• Learning how to conduct an effective and targeted job search
• Enhancing networking skills