Step Five: My Development

"How can I get the education I need for the career I want?"

Now that you have an idea of your future career goal, you need to do things now that will allow you to get that job when you’re ready. Putting together a personalized career plan can be as simple or as detailed as you wish. The key is getting started now.

If you are unable to finish high school, the most important thing you can do for your future success is to obtain your GED certificate. Contact Central Community College for more information.

Your best resource for career planning is your High School Guidance Counselor. He or she can help you map out a plan that takes into account the education, training and work experience you need to be successful at reaching your goal. Make your appointment today!

View Sample Career Plan.

Other Planning Resources Available to You:

www.careers.ucr.edu	This site will inform you of possible employment areas, employers, and strategies to reach your educational goals.
www.educationquest.org	EducationQuest Foundation offers free college planning assistance. They’ll help you to explore college funding options, estimate financial aid eligibility, complete the FAFSA and file it electronically, search for scholarships, and find the right college.
Early Entry Courses for high school students	Take college coursework while still in school. Students that have attained junior-level status and are at least 16 years old, may enroll in college credit courses. Contact Central Community College for more information.
Tech Prep Courses for high school students	High school students are able to take a high school course and earn not only high school credit but also college credit, at no cost. These courses emphasize "hands on learning" and directly connect the subject matter with the world of work.
Extra-curricular Activities	Get involved with activities at your school to help build and explore your interests. Involvement in activities also looks good on scholarship and job applications.
Part-time Jobs and Volunteer Experiences	Obtain a part-time job or volunteer opportunity while in High School. Not only will you obtain valuable workplace experience, you may also develop more interests. Volunteering is an excellent way to give back to your community and learn more about yourself.
Take College Courses	Central Community College-Columbus offers a broad range of educational and training opportunities. Whether you are looking to earn your Associates of Applied Science Degree, a certificate, or go on to earn a 4-year degree, taking courses at CCC is a great first step. Central Community College has coordinated with numerous colleges to ensure the transfer of credits. Call the college for more information, scholarship and financial aid information, 402-564-7132.
Military Service Representatives	If you are considering a career in the military, make an appointment with your local recruiter to learn more about your options.

Have questions or need assistance? Contact Central Community College.

Career Development Plan

Time Frame	Career-Related Experiences to Consider
Freshman Year Attend your Freshman Orientation Meet with your Guidance Counselor to discuss academic and career goals Identify your personal interests, skills and values through self assessments, career exploration curriculum at your school, and talking with your parents and teachers. Explore majors related to your occupational interests by researching the “What Can I Do With A Major In…? website located in phase 5. Explore career options by enrolling in a variety of classes in several disciplines when picking your electives.	Join High School organizations Assume leadership opportunities Get involved in volunteer and community activities Take a job in a related career field Try job shadowing Attend the Career Opportunity Fair at CCC
Sophmore Year Review test and self assessment results of your interest, skills and values you may have completed individually with your counselor or in class. Select an academic major consistent with your self-appraisal. See your guidance counselor for long-range class selection and to prepare a tentative degree plan. Consider increasing your versatility and broadening your skill base by choosing electives in other areas. Arrange job shadowing or informational interviews with community members in your major field. Discuss the job market and employment trends with your High School Guidance counselor.	Join school organizations Assume leadership opportunities Get involved in volunteer and community activities Take a job in a related career field Try job shadowing Look into internships
Junior Year Begin developing a resume/portfolio Research specific job descriptions in related career fields Explore post-graduate options Utilize web sites for information on colleges Attend the College Fair in your area Start taking College Visit Days Begin applying for Colleges Take classes in the area you want to major in Consider taking a Early Entry course to earn high school and college credit Check out internship opportunities	Join school organizations Assume leadership opportunities Get involved in volunteer and community activities Take a job in a related career field Try job shadowing Look into internships
Senior Year Prepare a comprehensive inventory of your skills and abilities Update and finalize your resume/portfolio Make sure your are set to graduate Begin applying for scholarships Apply to Colleges Research companies and organizations in your career field Apply for part time jobs in your field Ask staff and teachers for letters of recommendation	Take a job in a related career field Try an internship
After High School Continue to update your resume Consider updating your skills by taking classes at Central Community College. Contact the Workforce Development Office for assistance in job search or career development.	Look for employment in the field you are interested in Try job shadowing Stay active in organizations or groups in the field you are interested in within your community