Career Experience Gaining directly related experience is the best way to know if a given career is for you. If you do your career exploration carefully, you will have a good idea of whether the career you are considering is what you want, but you won't know for sure until you try it. In addition, you will need to have directly related experience on your resume when you look for that first full-time job. Many companies have training programs designed to give you experience on the job. Internships offer an outstanding opportunity to learn about a career field, gain practical experience and make contacts who can help you find your first job.
Many internships are available to students after they graduate.
Most academic departments have internship programs in which you can participate for academic credit. Check with your department chairperson, or use the Career Center's resources to find Internships on the web. If you start looking early, you may be able to land a job which allows you to try out a career you are considering. Check out our Summer Jobs Resources on the web. Part-time positions can also be used to gain career related work experience.