Career Prep Can Help You Move Forward On Your Path
By Darius Harris, Stride Career Prep Success Coach
Most high school students are still trying to figure out what they want to do after graduation. And, it’s very important to get an idea of the things in which you are interested. Knowing what you are naturally good at is important, too. This way, you can make well-informed decisions about your future, remain motivated in your career, and have a better quality of living.
So, what are some things you can do to find the right path for you?
Knowing Your Interests & Strengths To Find Your Path
To get a good sense of your interests and strengths, ask yourself these types of questions:
- What things are always on the top of my mind?
- What activities do I wish I could do more often?
- If you had to spend time working on something specific in your career, what would it be?
- Think of a time when you felt you were at your best… what were you doing?
- What do others often compliment you on and say you’re good at?
Doing Research & Investigation To Help You Find Your Path
Once you get an idea of things that may pique your interest, next you want to begin to research and investigate these areas further. There are several online platforms, like Nepris and CareerOne, which can help you. These websites provide information related to salary expectations, career skills and education needed, and general information about what a person does in each professional role. And, always check in with your feelings while doing further research.
Trying New Things To Better Explore Your Path
Trying new things will naturally reveal what you authentically like, possibly show you hidden talents, and help you to learn new skills for your career. Take on a new hobby, or volunteer at a local business. Any type of new experience will help to reveal things about you, and this will help you in the future.
Looking At Other Factors Along Your Path
Finding a path for you involves many different factors, including things that I have not mentioned. Yes, you want to take into consideration your natural abilities and interests, but there are many other important factors. We call this the whole person model. This includes your skills, where you are in the career development cycle, family, values, personal style, and goals at the time of making decisions. Because your values and goals may change throughout your life, people often change careers at least once. Also, whether you are introverted or extroverted will partially determine what you gravitate towards.
Working With A Coach To Better Determine Your Path
Attempting to find a career path that works best for you can be a very daunting task, if done alone. Our career services team is made up of Career Coaches who have years of experience helping others and many tools to assist in this endeavor. If you are interested in working with a coach, talk with your parent about Stride/K12’s career preparation program, with more information available here.
