If you’ve ever been to an ice cream shop, you know there’s one important question to ask: “Can I try a sample?”
That’s what career exploration is all about—sampling flavors before you commit to a full scoop.
Whether you’re 18 or 55, the question “What do you want to do for the rest of your life?” can feel overwhelming. Chances are high that someone’s already asked you what your major is—or if you have plans for an internship. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the answers yet. Career exploration is meant to explore, not decide immediately.
Quick story from my own cone
When I started college, I told everyone I was majoring in psychology and minoring in business so I could apply to law school. I said it confidently, but by sophomore year, I knew it wasn’t the right path for me. Quietly, I started exploring what else was out there.
My turning point came from two things:
- A class that brought in professionals from a variety of industries to talk about what they actually do every day.
- Real-life experiences on campus including interning in community engagement, admissions and advancement offices.
Those experiences helped me realize I wanted to work in higher education, supporting students as they grow and develop. I found the thing that fit, but I only found it because I tried a few flavors first.
Sampling Careers
Career exploration is going to look different for everyone, but here are a few ways to get started:
- Start with the people around you – friends, family, past coaches or teachers, people you admire – what do they do for work? Who have you seen be successful in life and what is it that they do? Take an opportunity to ask them about how they got to where they are today.
- Take a career exploration assessment such as PathwayU to best identify your interests, values and skills to receive matching career pathway opportunities. It’s not there to decide for you, but it can give you some new ideas and help you see how different roles connect. For example, a marketing specialist, social media manager and print media specialist might sound similar, but they all show up differently in the workplace (and might have different salary expectations).
- Review What Can I Do With This Major which can provide more specific resources based on the pathway you are interested in such as job platforms, types of companies to consider working for and more.
Try a few scoops
The beauty of college is that you don’t have to choose one flavor forever. Try things now, while you have the space and support to figure it out. Here’s how:
- Complete multiple forms of experiential learning including on-campus employment, part-time jobs, internships, co-ops and research. Each experience builds clarity—even if it’s learning what you don’t want to do.
- Join student organizations on campus that include professional development opportunities such as guest speakers, networking events and more. Bonus: you’ll meet other students who are also figuring things out.
- Check out these stories about fellow Warriors and their pathways to success: Ava Keamy ’27, Pat Casey ’26, Walter Palacio ’28
Final scoop of the day
You don’t need to have everything figured out today, or even a year from now, no matter when your graduation date is. Most people change direction more than once in their lifetime. The key is to stay curious and open to exploration. Who knows? You may end up in a role that doesn’t even exist yet.
Review our exploration milestones to help keep you on track. Use your career advisors, faculty and other campus resources to explore and sample all the flavors you’re interested in. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Written after trying the ice cream sampler from Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream in Palm Desert, CA. I recommend the Brookie Dough flavor. Fun Fact: July is National Ice Cream Month!
