2016-2017 HBCU Careers Magazine

HBCU Careers Magazine

Start with the End in Mind

By: Helene Cameron Director, Advisement and Career Services College of Southern Maryland

Every year in August thousands of students descend upon college campuses all over the United States with their hope (or the hope of their parents) of completing a college degree; and ultimately going on to graduate/professional school or immediately entering the workforce. The academic year starts off with ensuring that students get acclimated to the university by participating in orientation and of course; all of the fun stuff - pool parties, cookouts, Greek step shows, etc. As

the academic year progresses, students begin to consciously or unconsciously decide whether they are going to be a committed student or a student that does just enough to get by. I have always had a love for reading. One of the most exciting things was finding out the end of the story first. Did the princess marry the prince? It was worth knowing the ending so that I could really enjoy the intensity and excitement of the story from the beginning. If you have already decided that you want to be successful in college and beyond, you must START with the End in Mind!

Your Freshman year experience should include spending time exploring possible career options and doing a personal self assessment. Did you choose your major because your parents told you to or an older sibling had the same major in college? Did you choose your major because your new roommate has the same major? If you have not made that decision on your own or if you made the decision with little thought, you may want to ask yourself these questions: 1. What do I have a special interest in? 2. What abilities do I have that would help me have a career in my area of interest? 3. What special skills and attributes do I have? 4. What are my personal and work values? 5. Do I possess the necessary leadership skills, and if not what should I do to get them?

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