There are thousands of books, brochures, magazines, and other materials available on careers, self-assessment, and job hunting. Begin your library search in the card catalog, which will direct you to books on specific careers. Check the magazine section for trade and professional magazines and journals in specific areas such as interior design or advertising. Among the best books to read are the Occupational Outlook Handbook, published by the U.S. Department of Labor, and The College Board Guide to Jobs and Career Planning , by Joyce Slayton Mitchell. Talking to people who are already working in the career area that interests you is a good way to find out what a job is really like.
Most people are glad to talk about their jobs.
Ask your family, friends, or teachers to help you find people you can talk to. Have specific questions ready for them. Work itself is another good way to learn about careers. It can be paid or volunteer work, For example, volunteer in a hospital if you are interested in health care or work with children in a camp or day-care center if you're thinking about a career in education. Learn about career education When investigating careers, be sure to look for information about the kind of education path you should follow.