10 Career Exploration Suggestions to Do This Summer

Exploring careers during the summer can be an exciting and enriching experience. There is a reason the word career "exploration" is used because learning about careers allows you to consider them. Once we can articulate what they do, it helps us to entertain how they might fit into our interests. Summer is a very important time to do just that...explore!

Here are 10 suggestions for the best ways to spend your summer learning about different career paths:

Research: Start by researching various careers that interest you. Look for information online, read books, and explore industry-specific resources to gain a better understanding of different career options.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in the fields you're interested in and request informational interviews. This is an opportunity to ask questions about their career paths, daily responsibilities, and the skills required for success. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals and ask if they'd be willing to spare some time for an informational interview.
Job Shadowing: Contact local organizations or professionals who would allow you to shadow them for a day or week. Job shadowing gives you a firsthand look at a specific career, allowing you to observe professionals in action and understand the day-to-day tasks and challenges.
Volunteering: Consider volunteering or interning in organizations related to the careers you want to explore. Volunteering not only provides you with hands-on experience but also helps you build connections and network within the industry.
Summer Courses or Workshops: Look for summer courses or workshops offered by universities, community colleges, school districts adult and continuing education departments or professional organizations. These programs often focus on specific career fields and can provide you with valuable knowledge and skills.
Online Learning: Explore online learning platforms that offer courses related to the careers you're interested in. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of courses taught by industry professionals.
Job Fairs and Career Events: Attend job fairs and career events in your area. These events often feature a variety of companies and industries, giving you the chance to interact with professionals, ask questions, and learn more about potential career paths.
Networking: Networking is crucial for career exploration. Connect with professionals through LinkedIn, attend industry events, and join professional organizations related to your interests. Building a strong professional network can provide valuable insights and open doors to new opportunities.
Personal Projects: Use your summer to work on personal projects related to the careers you want to explore. For example, if you're interested in graphic design, start creating your own portfolio or design projects. These projects can showcase your skills and help you gain practical experience.
Reflect and Evaluate: Throughout your summer exploration, take time to reflect on your experiences and evaluate which careers resonate with you the most. Consider the tasks you enjoyed, the skills you excelled at, and the industries that align with your values and interests. This reflection will help you narrow down your career choices.

Remember, career exploration is an ongoing process which is why we recommend getting serious after the freshman year in high school. It's okay to explore multiple paths during the summer, in fact, it's ideal. Embrace the opportunity to learn and discover what truly excites and motivates you in a professional context. Lastly, we are passionate about educating individuals through our comprehensive career testing approach so informed decisions are made. Let us help and enjoy your summer!

Reeder Consulting: College and Career Paths is a specialist in the career development field and the #1 career counseling company in San Antonio, TX working with clients in all 50 states. We help individuals engage in career and aptitude testing to process information through meaningful conversations and give clarity to the stress of career decisions to Proceed with Confidence. www.reederconsulting.com