In today’s competitive job market, students will be more successful in entering a career field if they

• take the time to explore career options;
  
• plan ahead and acquire knowledge, skills, and experiences related to their career interests;
• and develop effective job hunting strategies to connect them with employment opportunities.

Parents can play an active and supportive role in this career development process!

1. Encourage your student to visit the Career Services Center early in their college career to learn about the resources available to them.
   
   
2. Support their major/career exploration and be patient with them during this important process.  Students are usually most successful when they select a major that is compatible with their interests, values, and abilities, and one in which they can achieve academically.  These factors are far more important than the perceived practicality or popularity of the major.
   
   
3. Introduce your student to people in professional fields who can provide them with career contacts.  Information and contacts (networking) can open doors to many future opportunities.
   
   
4. Help them identify their strengths and achievements.  The ability to effectively communicate skills and successes is critical.  Many students have difficulty recognizing their strong points and benefit from feedback.
   
   
5. Support their involvement in leadership and student organization activities both on and off campus.  The way to make the most out of college (and life!) is to be an active participant.  Employers highly value co-curricular involvement on résumés.
   
   
6. Stress the importance of gaining career-related experience through summer or part-time jobs and internships.  Not only do employers prefer to hire students with experience in their field, but these activities also help students confirm their choice of major and occupation.