Common Career Questions
What is career counseling and how will it help me?
Will you get me a job?
While Career Services does not directly get you a job, we do provide tools and resources to teach you how to get jobs for the rest of your life.
If I choose a certain major, do I have to stay in that field the rest of my life?
A major or degree does not determine what career you have to choose. Most majors will allow you to find work in many different fields as long as you have the necessary skills and experience.
Do I need a specific major to pursue a specific occupation?
For most occupations, you do not have to have a specific major. There are exceptions, such as nursing, that typically require you to have that degree.
Will I fall behind if I change majors?
It may take longer to complete your major if you change it, but changing majors does not always increase the amount of time to finish a degree. See a counselor to explore options.
How do I know a major or career is right for me?
There is no real way to find out if a major or career is right for you until trying it. You can only make the best decision for yourself with the information that you have at the time. You can find out as much as possible about the major or career by doing the following:
- Speak to a career counselor
- Take Counseling 110: Career Planning
- Conduct Informational interviews
- Get experience in that area (volunteer, intern, or work)
- Research careers using our databases and browsing the Internet
- Talk to professors, family, friends, etc.
If there are any doubts or questions, come see us!
How do I go about taking career assessments?
For formal career assessments such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or Strong Interest Inventory, you have to see a career counselor first and be referred to take one, or you may enroll in Counseling 110 or Counseling 200.
How long are the career assessments?
Strong Interest Inventory: ~30-45 minutes; MBTI: ~20-30 minutes
Do I need an appointment to see a career counselor?
Career counselors are available on an appointment basis. We have "drop in" hours as well for quick, basic questions. Use the Navigate platform or call us at (562) 860-2451 ext. 2356 to schedule an appointment. Please have your student ID number available.
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