Brainstorm
This step is all about generating options.
After reflecting on your interests and values, the next step is to come up with as many ideas as possible. Don’t worry about whether they’re realistic or perfect—just focus on quantity. The goal is to expand your options so you’re not stuck with your first idea. Use the prompts and resources below to help you think broadly. You can narrow things down later.
- What are 3–5 different careers or life paths that genuinely intrigue you, even if they seem unrealistic?
- Which of the 6 career communities do you gravitate towards?
- If money and reputation didn’t matter, what would you spend your time doing?
- Which activities make you lose track of time?
- What do you want to learn more about—just because it seems interesting?
- If you could shadow someone for a day, who would it be?
Resources to Help You Generate Options
Search market trends across the U.S. and learn about job types (job functions). Use this tool to research career paths, job titles, growth trends of various roles, and desired skills for each position.
This continuously updated resource, maintained by the United States Department of Labor, is a valuable tool to explore industries, job functions, salaries, and projected growth of various jobs.
Take some time to see what other students in your major or with similar interests have done–it’s a great way to get ideas for yourself.
