Understanding how career decision making works can take some of the stress out of the process. The Career Centre has developed a career decision making model to illustrate the different parts of the career exploration process and how they fit together. 

Internal Clarification 

Internal Clarification is a process of self-assessment, which may include thinking about your desires, interests, abilities, and personality as they relate to career decision making. If you would like guidance in this process, you book a 20-minute Career Counselling (First) appointment where you will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with a Career Counsellor.

• Who I Am 
  • Career decisions start with self-reflection on what is most important to you. 
  • This may include your career desires, abilities, personality and assets. By understanding important aspects of yourself, you gain clarity surrounding career decision making. 
• Other Factors 
  • Other People and Other Factors may influence your career direction. Examples may include family, partners, friends; as well as financial situations, or life roles. 
• Career Curiosities 
  • Career Curiosities refers to your career ideas. They can be specific occupations such as Television and Radio Reporter; activities such as working with children; or pursuing a further education program. 

Inspired Exploration 

Inspired Exploration is a process of exploring the world around you to clarify your career direction. This may include assessing your thoughts and feelings in relation to career decision making, as well as exploring opportunities around you.

• Taking Action 
  • Taking Action refers to gaining more information or insight into a career you are curious about. This may include applying for a volunteer position or talking to professionals who may work in your field of interest. Once you have planned your career direction, it may also include having your resumé reviewed or attending an Interview Practice Session.
• Opportunities 
  • Opportunities are learning experiences created by you that assist you in moving forward in a meaningful career direction. For example, obtaining an internship or entry level position within your field of interest; or applying to graduate studies. 
• Thoughts and Feelings 
  • Your thoughts and feelings give you insights into the direction that you may wish to pursue in your future career. By considering your thoughts and feelings you can begin to better understand your next step(s) in moving towards your career goals.