Exploring careers can be exhilarating but also sometimes a little overwhelming. At Portland State, you don’t have to go through the process alone. Our University Career Center offers an abundance of resources. Here are seven ways the Career Center can put you on the path to a rewarding career, no matter where you are in your PSU journey:
1. Schedule an appointment with a career counselor
Feeling lost in your career search? Or don’t know where to begin? Any student at Portland State can make an appointment with a career counselor. A career counselor can help you select a major, explore your skills and interests, learn about potential career paths, create a job search strategy, edit your resume, prepare you for interviews and much, much more. PSU’s career counselors take a holistic approach and can also help you with the emotional aspects of exploring careers and finding a job. It’s never too early—or too late—to meet with a career counselor. Schedule an appointment with a career counselor.
Get all your questions answered with PSU Career Center's chat feature (available on the Career Center webpage)
2. Explore possible careers for your major
Sometimes it can be difficult to see the connections between majors and careers. The Career Center has created a series of “What can I do with a degree in” guides that list potential job titles and employers and contain other career information relevant to particular majors. Check out additional career exploration resources curated by the Career Center, including a database with more than 1,000 career success stories.
3. Take a career class
If you’re looking for more structure in your career search, PSU offers a one-credit Career Exploration class. In this course, you will learn how to choose a major and identify your relevant skills, interests and values. It will also teach you the career decision-making process, how to research potential jobs, how to set up informational interviews and more.
4. Attend a workshop
If you’re just looking to learn more about one particular career search topic, say interviewing or networking skills, try one of the Career Center’s workshops. Workshops offered throughout the year include Job Search 101, Introduction to Interviewing, Writing Resumes and Cover Letters, Internships: Overview and Search Tips and Networking for Introverts. Check out upcoming workshops.
5. Apply for internships
Internships can be an excellent way to get work experience, build your network, and learn what you are (and are not) looking for in a job. Marisa Miller, PSU’s internships coordinator, helps students find and create internship opportunities and is available via appointment. Internships are also listed on Handshake, PSU’s job listing board. Another option is PSU’s CO-OP program, where you can do a paid six to 12 month internship in the course of your studies.
6. Visit a career fair
At career fairs you can meet employers that are actively recruiting people in your field. PSU career fairs are currently being held virtually, which means you can make multiple connections with local and global employers without leaving your home. Sign up for a career fair and prepare for career fair success.
7. Know that PSU’s always got your back
If after commencement you find yourself struggling to find a job, thinking about graduate school or considering a career change, remember that Career Center resources are also available for PSU alumni. Once a Vik, always a Vik!