Through this research process, certain careers can be eliminated or chosen based on intrinsic characteristics. This is the first step to beginning career exploration. Books, the Internet and other such resources are a great way to perform some basic research. The research checklist in the MSU Career Portfolio Guide is useful in identifying resources. Activities Participation in various types of activities can provide a network of contacts that can be used for other exploration and job attainment strategies.
Activities can also build skills relevant to careers of interest.
For more examples of activities available see the activities sheet in the Career Portfolio Guide. Involvement in a wide range of extracurricular activities will build knowledge and skills as they apply to careers. Informational Interview One of the best ways to find out what a job or career is really like is to talk to someone who is employed in that field. The informational interview worksheet in the Career Portfolio Guide offers sample questions. Students may find that they are not suited for a particular job just by speaking with others about what they do at work.