Career Preparation Checklist
Years 1 and 2: Explore and Test options
Determine your major
- Undecided? Take a career self assessment.
- Decided? Start to research careers.
Get involved
- Join at least one student club; learn more from Student Unions and Activities.
- Volunteer! Find opportunities on GoldPASS, the job posting site for U of M students and alumni, or at the Service Learning Office.
Write or update your resume
- Get started writing your resume.
- View resume samples.
- For help watch our Online Resume Workshop.
Begin networking
- Learn more by job shadowing or interviewing a professional.
- Talk with faculty or visit the St. Paul Campus Career Center in 198 McNeal Hall for additional networking ideas.
Build related experience
- Discover opportunities at GoldPASS, the U of M’s free online database for jobs, internships, and volunteer postings.
- Use the U of M Engagement Planner to explore opportunities related to your major or career interest.
- Find on-campus positions at the U of M Human Resources Job Bank.
Start your portfolio
- Learn more by viewing our Online Portfolio Workshop.
Years 3 and 4: Gain Experience and Take Action
Take “Strategic Career Planning” (CFAN 3201/DES 3201/DHA 3201)
- This interactive 1 credit course helps you prepare for your career. Find details by searching the online class schedule.
Continue networking
- Participate in a mentor program.
- Meet prospective employers at career fairs. For tips, view our Online Job Fair Success Workshop.
Gain an internship or job related to your career goals
- Find career related opportunities on GoldPASS.
Perfect your career portfolio
- Use your portfolio in a practice interview.
- Learn more by viewing our Online Portfolio Workshop.
Consider graduate or professional school
- Examine your options by researching and evaluating programs.
- Meet with a career professional for help with finding programs and creating a strong personal statement. Call 612-624-2710 for an appointment.
- Learn more by viewing our Online Graduate School Preparation Workshop.
Launch your job search
- Meet with a career advisor for help. Call 612-624-2710 for an appointment.
- Learn more by viewing our Online Job and Internship Searching Workshop.