What is Career Planning?

Career planning is the process of making educational and career choices based on knowledge of self and of the environment. The purpose of career planning is to encourage exploration and information gathering about various educational and career opportunities thus enabling the development of realistic career goals. Career planning is an on-going activity that extends well into adulthood.

Why Career Planning?

• To Make Informed Decisions: Career planning helps you gather the information you need about different career paths, what education they require, and what job opportunities are available. This way, you can make smart choices about your future.
• To Avoid Regret: By thinking carefully about your options and choosing a path that matches your interests and values, you're less likely to regret your career decisions later on.
• To Understand Yourself Better: Career planning gives you the chance to explore your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and passions. This helps you gain a deeper understanding of who you are and how you can fit into the world of work.

When to Start Career Planning

Career planning should start as early as high school and continue as an ongoing process throughout life. Beginning in high school allows you to explore your interests, strengths, and potential career paths, giving you a solid foundation for making informed decisions about your education and future. Early planning helps you set realistic goals, select the right courses, and seek relevant experiences like internships or volunteer work. However, career planning isn't a one-time task; it evolves as you grow, gain new experiences, and refine your interests. Continuously reassessing and adjusting your plan ensures you stay on track to achieve your long-term goals.

How to Choose a Career Path

Choosing a career path is a crucial step for high school students, and the process can be simplified into four key steps: Observe, Evaluate, Decide, and Execute.

1. Observe: Pay attention to activities that you enjoy, those you willingly engage in, and tasks that feel purposeful and exciting. This self-awareness is the foundation for identifying potential career paths.
2. Evaluate: Consider whether these interests can translate into a viable career. Ask yourself if you can make a career out of it, consider the pathways available, and weigh any potential downsides. This stage helps you narrow down options based on practical considerations.
3. Decide: Choose a specific field or institution that aligns with your evaluation. Reflect on what you're willing to sacrifice to pursue this career, whether it's time, energy or comfort, and think about the level of effort required to achieve stability or excellence in the field.
4. Execute: Take action on your plan by applying to relevant colleges, seeking supplementary training, and engaging in internships or volunteer work. This step transforms your plans into actionable goals, setting you on the path to success.