Transition Trends Summer 2024: Career Planning
Career Planning – Let’s Work Together!
What do you want to be when you grow up?
This is the eternal question for each of us – and one, quite frankly, that isn’t always an easy one to answer. Sometimes, we may feel like this is a question that is “too big” to answer with just one sentence. It takes time – and it really is a process. Career planning isn’t a single question we answer; it’s an exciting journey that we embark upon – one filled with opportunity and adventure... And, really, who doesn’t love a great adventure?
When you first started to think about this question, you might have asked yourself a variety of questions: “What are my hobbies and interests?” “My values?” “My goals for the future?” ….in the simplest terms, “How do I get where I want to go?” Trying to figure out what career pathway we want to take doesn’t come with a “Career GPS” – it’s a process that takes time, teamwork, and planning to identify short term and long-term goals that can create a framework we can build upon for our future.
While it can be an exciting journey, it can often feel overwhelming. It’s great to know that this isn’t a journey we take on our own – it’s an inclusive adventure where others, including family, friends, teachers, school counselors, and transition staff can help us reach our “career destination.” Along this expedition, it can be helpful to think about the role each of our supporters can play in helping us to plan for our future and how we would like for them to support us along this journey. Our support team may have unique insight into our strengths and abilities and may be able to connect you with others to support to you along your pathway. Love working with animals? Your friend’s mom may work at a Veterinary Office and may be able to share what it’s like to work in that type of environment. Are you interested in music or singing? Maybe your aunt helps with the local community arts theater and can help you sign up for auditions for the next musical. Ever wonder what it would be like to work as a mechanic or welder? Your school counselor can be a great resource to help you with community resources and training. Additionally, Pre-Employment Training staff and Employment Specialists can be great resources to facilitate job shadows and informational interviews with employers.
Ready to get started on the journey? We have included some helpful information from the Virginia Department of Education that was developed in partnership with Virginia Commonwealth University for more tips on the roles your support team can play to help you with career planning:
https://centerontransition.org/resources/publications/download.cfm?id=198