EXPLORING CAREERS
Why is this important?
At any age, it’s important to take a good look at what you might like to do for a living.
First and foremost, it is OKAY to not know! On average, people change jobs seven
times in their adult lives and four times before they turn 32. (Source: CNN Money)
It is important to get a general idea of what you would like to do and what you are
good at. This not only can help lead to a happy and successful career, but can save
time and money in the future.
How do you figure out what you would like to do?
• Think about where your strengths are – what is your favorite subject in school?
Consider these career paths based on these subjects:
o Art or Music
• Studio Artist or Director
• Music Teacher
• Box Office Management
o English
• Editor
• Journalist
• Writer
o Math
• Actuary
• Stockbroker
• Financial Planner
o Science
• Research Scientist
• Chemist
• Pharmacist
o Social Studies
• Museum Curator
• Anthropologist
• Psychologist
o Physical Education
• Personal Trainer
• Parks and Recreation Director
• Coach
The National Honor Societies proudly present this series of tools to help you
get #Futuready. Use these to plan your day, your year, and your career.
RESUME
• Be honest with yourself!
o Do you hate science? Then you may not want to become a doctor.
o Do you love English? There are many careers that involve English!
o What is your passion versus your hobby?
• Are you passionate about the outdoors? Or do you enjoy being outside as a
hobby and would be satisfied with an office job?
• Do you love being a member of the band, but want to be an engineer? You
can always find a community band to fulfill your interest in music!
• Take an “interest inventory.”
o MyMajors.com has a great interest inventory.
o Naviance: If your school has Naviance, connect with your school counselor to
get information on how to use Naviance in exploring careers and interests.
o Check with your local or school librarian to see if there are free resources
available.
• Plug your favorite subject (or two) into this search engine and start
exploring! (www.mymajors.com/career-list/)
Understanding college degrees
• There are many college degrees. While you are exploring careers, think about how long
you are willing to go to school. Here is an outline of professions and the certification
typically needed to get a job in the field:
o Nondegree Trades
• Usually 12–18 month certificate programs. Careers include:
o Carpentry
o Welding
o Plumbing
o Associate Degree
• Usually two years. Careers include:
o Registered Nurse
o Car Mechanic
o Culinary Arts
o Bachelor’s Degree
• Usually four years. Careers include:
o Education or teaching
o Engineering
o Business Management or Marketing
o Master’s Degree
• Usually two years
after
your bachelor’s degree. Careers include:
o Professional Counselor
o Accountant
o Librarian
o Doctorate Degree
• Usually 3-7 years
after
your master’s degree. Careers include:
o Physician
o College Professor
o Lawyer
• Check out the career planning checklist under Next Steps to make sure you stay on track
through high school to meet your career and college goals.
#FUTUREADY
NHS and NJHS are programs of NASSP
• Continue to explore careers related to your favorite subject in school.
o What education is needed to achieve this career?
o What is the average salary of someone in this career?
o Is this career limited to certain geographical areas or can it be done anywhere?
o Who are some leading experts in that field?
o Do you know anyone in that field? Find a trusted adult to help you find someone
to interview or talk to using the interview sheet.
• Use the career planning checklist worksheet.
• Use the career interview worksheet.
NEXT STEPS
