The Career Development Pathway

The Career Development Pathway is a dynamic and interactive tool that provides perspective students, current students, and our graduated Rocket alumni with a visual roadmap of potential career pathways, highlighting key milestones, resources, and opportunities available to them at each stage of their career journey.

Explore Interests & Majors

Find Your Fit - Explore Interests & Majors

Not sure what to major in or where your interests could lead you? That’s okay!

This is the perfect place to start. We help you uncover what excites you and how that can turn into a meaningful major, career path, or experience. Exploration is an ongoing process. Your interests and goals may shift throughout your journey, and that’s part of the experience. The Rocket Career Center is here to support you every step of the way.

Use the tools below to get curious, reflect, and take small steps that build clarity and confidence:

Career Assessments

Explore your interests, values, personality, and strengths using tools like Focus 2 and CliftonStrengths. These personalized assessments help you connect who you are to what you want to do.

Take an assessment or meet with a Career Consultant to review your results.

Informational Interviewing

Have conversations with professionals working in fields you’re curious about. These brief, informal interviews offer real-world insight into different roles and career paths.

Connect with industry professionals through the University LinkedIn Alumni Page.

Introductory Courses

Try out new areas of study by enrolling in intro-level courses. These classes give you a firsthand look at what a major involves and help you determine if it’s the right fit.

Meet with your academic advisor to align your courses with your interests.

Job Shadowing

Spend a day observing someone in a career you’re considering. Job shadowing gives you a behind-the-scenes look at a job’s daily responsibilities and work environment.

Ask the Rocket Career Center about opportunities to shadow local professionals.

Part-Time Jobs

Gain experience and build skills through on- or off-campus part-time work. Even jobs not directly related to your major can help you develop transferable skills and learn about your preferences.
Explore available part-time roles on Handshake.

Volunteering

Get involved in your community while exploring interests. Volunteering helps you discover what environments and causes you connect with, all while adding experience to your resume.

Discover volunteer opportunities that align with your goals.

Create Academic and Career Plans

Collaboration is Key - Create Academic and Career Plans

Make a plan that connects your classroom to your career.

This stage focuses on intentional planning through two key lenses: Academic Planning and Career Planning. With support from your academic advisor and the Rocket Career Center, you'll build a flexible path forward that fits your interests, goals, and future aspirations.

Career Planning

Career planning is ongoing—and we’re here to support you at every turn.

Identify how your major connects to industries and job roles
Map out experiences to build your resume (internships, co-ops, campus involvement)
Explore graduate school, gap years, or other post-graduation options
Develop short- and long-term career goals with clear action steps
Connect to tools like career assessments, job market data, and salary info

Connect with Your Career Consultant

Academic Planning

Use academic advising as a space to ask questions, explore possibilities, and build a plan that works for you.

Understand degree requirements and major options
Explore minors, certificates, and other ways to add value
Plan course schedules that align with career timelines
Discuss academic performance and how it impacts next steps
Re-evaluate plans when interests shift or goals change

Connect with Your Academic Advisor

Develop Professional Skills

Skills = Confidence + Experience

Turn your experiences into career readiness.

Every Rocket has a unique path — and that path is built through experiences. This stage focuses on helping you develop the skills employers look for through real involvement, leadership, and hands-on learning. These opportunities help you build confidence, make connections, and grow as a professional.

Get Involved & Lead

Engagement on campus builds communication, teamwork, and leadership skills — all essential for career success.

These experiences help you strengthen leadership and collaboration skills while building a strong foundation for your future career.

Learn Through Work & Service

Practical, paid, and service-based experiences help you apply what you’re learning in real time.
Opportunities include:

Clinical Placements
On-Campus Jobs
Paid Internships and Co-ops
Student Teaching

These experiences allow you to gain career-relevant experience while building your network and resume.

Grow Through Exploration

Some experiences take you beyond the classroom — and even beyond the country — offering a deeper perspective.
Opportunities include:

Performances and Exhibitions
Study Abroad
Research with faculty

These experiences help you develop problem-solving, critical thinking, cultural awareness, and creativity.

Connect to Opportunities

As you transition from college to what’s next, the Rocket Career Center is here to help you launch with purpose. Whether you're job hunting, pursuing further education, or looking to serve your community, we've got you covered.

Employment

Part-time, full-time, and freelance work are all options after graduation!

Work with the RC2 to prepare for job searches, applications, and interviews. Use tools like Handshake, Big Interview, and career fairs to find openings that match your goals.

Graduate & Professional School

Thinking about law school, medical school, or a master’s program? Get guidance on finding the right fit, preparing your personal statement, and navigating deadlines and applications.

Connect with Your Career Consultant

Internships & Fellowships

Pursue competitive internships and fellowships that offer funding, mentorship, and hands-on experience. These positions can be the perfect launchpad into full-time roles or advanced study.

Search internships and fellowships on Handshake.

Military Service

Interested in continuing your journey through military service? We can help connect you with resources, recruiters, and career paths that align with your personal and professional values.

Connect with Your Career Consultant

Postdoctoral Programs

For students pursuing research or academic careers, postdoc programs offer specialized training and valuable experience. We can help you navigate the search and prepare your materials.

Connect with Your Career Consultant

Volunteer & Service Programs

Give back and grow. Opportunities like AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and local nonprofits offer structured service experiences that make an impact — while building valuable skills and networks.

Connect with Your Career Consultant

Interactive Career Development Pathway Wall

This “Design Your Future Here” installation is a dynamic and interactive tool that provides current and prospective students with a visual roadmap of potential career pathways, highlighting key milestones, resources, and opportunities available to them at each stage of their career journey. This engaging display area has become a destination for classroom visits, campus tours, and selfie photo opportunities.