Explore Careers and Industries
Use the resources below to learn about different careers and industries and identify the ones that are best aligned with your interests, values, skills, and goals.
The world of work is constantly evolving, so how do you find out what fields exist and what might be a good fit for you? It’s important to first get a clear understanding of your skills and interests. Keep these things in mind:
- While exploring industries related to your major is a great starting place, it is important to keep in mind that there is often not a linear path between major and career.
- While there are some careers that require specific majors, students in those majors may choose to go on to a variety of other careers.
- In addition to major, employers look for skills developed through a well-rounded experience in student organizations, part-time jobs, internships/co-ops, volunteer work, and academic courses.
- Connect with alumni to learn more about their career paths and experiences.
Focus 2
Focus 2 is an online self-guided program designed to help you explore majors and careers. Assessments are available to help you examine your personality, skills, interests, work values, preferences and competencies.
This tool provides a wealth of information about occupations and related majors here at Michigan State. Create a career and education plan and save it all in your own online portfolio.
We recommend making an appointment with a career advisor to discuss your results and how to use the information you’ve gathered. Get access to Focus 2 here.
Candid Career
Candid Career provides an interactive way to explore careers through thousands of short 1-2 minute video clips. Use Candid Career to discover new career fields, see the types of jobs people pursue with your major, and hear from real industry professionals about their path and what it takes to get hired in their field.
O*Net
O*Net allows you to view detailed descriptions of occupations as they relate to industry, level of education and training, job outlook, and sustainability. Use O*Net’s “skills search” to match skills you would like to use in your future career.
Vault
Vault (Career Insider) provides in-depth information on what it’s really like to work in an industry, company, or profession. Vault allows you access to downloadable career industry guides, employer profiles, industry blogs and news, and more.
Career Exploration Programs
Career Exploration events, which engage expertise from special guests like alumni and employers, offer you the chance to learn about various career fields of interest. Upcoming events are listed on Handshake; search for “CSN Career Exploration” under the Events tab.
Network and Connect
Network and connect with MSU alumni through MSU Connect or LinkedIn to learn more about their industry and roles. Find more information on these resources on the Network and Connect page.