What are you good at? Do you have something you love to do? Whether it’s playing sports, building models, or playing an instrument, your interests today say a lot about what career you might have tomorrow. To get there, follow these ten steps. And be sure to discuss them with your school counselor and your parents or guardian:

Step 1

Make a list of your skills and interests. Think hard about what you enjoy and what you are good at.

Step 2

Find out more about the kinds of the jobs that interest you, along with their educational requirements, salary, working conditions, future outlook, and anything else that can help you decide what’s best.

Step 3

Make a second list of possible jobs that you would like to have and compare it with your skills and interests. The job that matches your skills and interests the closest may be the career for you.

Step 4

Choose your career goal. Once you've decided what occupation matches up best with you, then you can begin developing a plan to reach your career goal.

Step 5

Develop a career plan. Think about what you want to do and find out more about the kind of training, education, and skills you will need to achieve your career goal.

Step 6

Select a school that offers a college degree or training program that best meets your career goal and financial needs.

Step 7

Find out about financial aid to help support you in obtaining your career goal.

Step 8

Learn about job hunting tips as you prepare to graduate or move into the job market.

Step 9

Prepare your resume, and practice job interviewing techniques.

Step 10

Go to your career guidance center at school or local library for information and help on career planning.

Learn More About Making a Sample Career Plan