Yearly Planner
Cal has so many opportunities and resources to help you identify your career related goals and take steps in the right direction. Whether you are an under- or upperclassman, there is not a strict "timeline" for success, but the suggestions below will get you started.
Freshman and Sophomore
During your first two years at Cal you may already be thinking about your post-graduation goals. This is the perfect time to explore the possibilities.
- Adjust to campus life. Learn how to balance academics and social activities
- Learn about the many student services departments on campus; see a Peer Advisor
- Get involved in student organizations or activities
- Develop your time management skills at the Student Learning Center
- Set up a Handshake account and your profile; review upcoming career-related events
- Within Handshake, sign up for CareerMail based on your interests
- Explore your major options
- Investigate career options - try some self assessment activities to gain clarity
- Learn about graduate and professional school (includuing pre-med/pre-health)
- Meet with a career counselor to discuss your options and goals; develop a plan
- Develop your networking and communication skills
- Learn about internships and other short-term opportunities to build skills
- Pursue an externship - shadow an alum in a profession that interests you
- Attend Career Center programs such as workshops and Career Fairs
Junior and Senior
Now that you’re into the second half of your undergraduate career, you may be focusing more intently on your post-graduation activities. Be sure to use these Career Center resources to help you prepare.
- Develop strong relationships with faculty
- Attend the Graduate and Law School Fair, if you are interested in further education
- Learn about career fields that interest you
- Regularly utilize Handshake - become familiar with On Campus Recruiting
- Create or update your resume and your LinkedIn profile
- Build teamwork and leadership skills in your extracurricular activities
- Develop analytical and problem solving skills to become more competitive for many jobs
- See a counselor in the beginning of Senior year
- Make some decisions about your future goals - it is ok to have more than one direction
- Develop your professionalism and work ethic within your various commitments
- Assess your training, skills and experiences; identify any further development you need to be competitive for the opportunities that interest you most
- Build your network; conduct informational interviews with alumni and professionals
- Complete our Career Destinations survey
- Consider giving back as a volunteer panelist or alum networker