Discover a Career That is Right for You | Student Guide | BYU-Idaho

# How to Discover a Career That is Right for You

Learn about different career paths and discover how your unique gifts and interests fill a need in the world.

## Why Your Individual Purpose Matters in a Career Decision

Your values and goals are key to understanding your purpose. Realizing your purpose can guide you to work that is meaningful to you and impacts the world. Knowing how your purpose connects to a future career decision will: 

- Increase your motivation to achieve your goals
- Decide how you want to spend your time and effort
- Discover a life and career that you enjoy

Your purpose doesn't have to be complex or grand. It begins with discovering who you are, how you can serve, and the best options for you.

## Why Your Individual Purpose Matters in a Career Decision

Your values and goals are key to understanding your purpose. Realizing your purpose can guide you to work that is meaningful to you and impacts the world. Knowing how your purpose connects to a future career decision will: 

- Increase your motivation to achieve your goals
- Decide how you want to spend your time and effort
- Discover a life and career that you enjoy

Your purpose doesn't have to be complex or grand. It begins with discovering who you are, how you can serve, and the best options for you.

## Ways to Explore Career Options

Career exploration is simply learning about career options and deciding which fits with your values, interests, and strengths.

Learn More About Yourself

Become self-aware of who you are by identifying your values, interests, and talents that will benefit others. 
 
Self-discovery

How You Can Serve Others

Look to the future--who will you serve? Which cause, place, or company matches your values? What is your dream career? 

CareerOneStop

The Impact of Finding Your Why

There are many ways to discover which path to choose. A great place to start is by exploring what motivates you. 
 
Watch Video

Know Your Options

Explore potential careers based on interests, industry, and more. 
 
Go to mynextmove.org

## Tips for Choosing a Career

Find the Best Match for You

Don't worry about finding the "perfect" match, but instead look for the best match that aligns with your interests and abilities. Keep in mind that many of your interests might make better hobbies than careers.

Make a Decision

Don't allow others to make the decision for you. You can make informed decisions that will bless your life.

Talk to an Advisor Early

Get on the right path to the career you want by talking with an advisor in the Advising Center. The sooner you get on the right career path, the more prepared and successful you will be.

Take a Career and Self-discovery Course

Take a Career Exploration course offered at BYU-Idaho. This class offers resources and activities to help you learn more about yourself and find a career where you will shine.

Start Networking

Networking is a valuable resource to contact professionals in your field of study. Seek out alumni mentors or learn how to use social media and other channels to generate steps into a rewarding career.

Consider Employment and Professional Development

Once you have chosen a career, learn how to prepare to land your future job. Professional development is an important part of becoming job-market ready for your future career.

## Career Myths

There are some incorrect assumptions about choosing a career path. Plan your career goals with confidence by learning the truth about careers.

Myth #1

Something is wrong with me if I don't know what I want to do. 
 
****Fact**** 
Most college students don't have a clear idea of what they want to do for a career. This is normal. With research and support, you can make decisions that are right for you.

Myth #2

My major determines my career options. 
 
****Fact**** 
While some majors lead to specific careers, most majors can prepare you for a variety of careers and opportunities.

Myth #3

If I choose a career, I'll be stuck with it forever. 
 
****Fact**** 
Most people undergo several career changes throughout the course of their working lives.

Myth #4

If I wait long enough, luck will eventually bring me to the right career. 
 
****Fact**** 
Those who research and plan are more likely to be successful in reaching their career goals.

## Seek for Inspiration in Your Career Decision

As you discover your unique attributes and strengths, keep your plans open to spiritual guidance. You can have confidence that you can be directed to meaningful and fulfilling work. Rest assured that your calling will find you as you move forward with faith.

> Your career decision is best made with great temporal and spiritual wisdom. If you know where to look, you can learn about industries and specific careers that are in demand, growing, and have competitive base pay to meet your needs.

BYU-Idaho Graduate

## Get Help

Meet with an advisor who can assist with your specific interests and needs.

Meet With An Advisor

Meet with an advisor by scheduling an appointment through I-Plan. 
 
Book Appointment Now

Call Advising Office

Call the Advising Office with questions or schedule an appointment at (208) 496-1411. 
 
Call Academic Advising