FAQ's
Answers to Common Career Questions:
Q: How do I begin to make a major/career decision?
A: The first step is finding out about you. Understanding your interests, abilities, values and personality is crucial to making good decisions.
Q: My parents have recommended a major for me. Should I pick that one?
A: What is most important in choosing a major or career is that you choose one that is right for you. In order to do that, you need to figure out what you like, are good at and value in life. Once you do, you can begin learning about career options that YOU feel are right for you.
Q: A bunch of my friends have the same major and love it. I'm thinking that maybe I should do the same thing. What do you think?
A: Each person is different, and while it's great that all of your friends really enjoy what they're doing, you need to pick a major or career based on your own likes and dislikes. Once again, self-knowledge is an important key to good decision making. Base your decision on what you know about yourself, not on what your friends are doing.
Q: What if I really like a certain subject, but I don't think there are too many jobs dealing with that area?
A: Did you know there are more than 22,000 job titles out there? 22,000! By coming into the CDC and doing a little exploration, you may find that your major is a great foundation for many occupations that interest you.
Q: I want to choose a career that will virtually guarantee me a job upon graduation. What are the up-and-coming careers?
A: This is a tricky question. Although there are published trends in employment, they are today's predictions. Just because they're big now, doesn't mean they will be by the time you graduate. Also, just because the field is "up-and-coming" doesn't mean you'll like it. Focusing on what occupation is right for you and preparing yourself with the necessary skills is a more effective way of preparing for the job market.
Q: What happens if I can't get into the major I really want? Is it the only door to that career?
A: Keep in mind that you may be able to reach your career goal from a variety of different majors. Doing some further exploration at the CDC about the career you're interested in may reassure you concerning alternative ways to achieve your goal.
Q: Will the CDC tell me what to do with my life?
A: Sorry, but the answer is no. We will, however, do all we can to help you figure out the answer to that question yourself.
Q: What if I make the wrong decision?
A: That's a perfectly normal fear, but unfortunately you may never be 100% sure that you are doing the right thing. Making a good decision means that you have researched majors and occupations enough to feel that you are ready to take a reasonable risk and at least check it out. And remember, nothing is forever - you can always change your mind.
| 
