Major and Career Exploration

Major Exploration


There are a number of ways to explore your major both inside and outside of the classroom. If you feel like you are lost in the major exploration process I encourage you to try 3 -  4 of these suggestions to see which major is the right fit for you.

  • Visit the Discover a Major page on the DGS Website. This page includes all of the majors available at Illinois and includes a PDF document for each major. Information in the PDF document includes - a description of the major, classes to explore the major, student groups you can join, possible transferable skills, possible career options, and possible career titles
  • Check out the Career Information Systems website. Log in with the Quick Start. Select the Programs of Study link on the sidebar under the "Education and Training" heading.
  • Take a class on major and career exploration - EPSY 220: Career Theory and Practice.
  • Join a student group and explore your major outside of your classes. The Registered Student Organization page can help you identify student groups on campus.

Career Exploration

There are many resources available to assist you as you prepare for the next step --- a career!  Here is a short list of resources to get you started...
  • EPICS Assessment
      • EPICS is an online assessment sponsored by the Career Center to determine what types of jobs and majors might fit well with your interests. 
        • Results of the Interest Inventory will direct you to 2 or 3 categories of careers or majors which you can begin to research.
        • Or try using the Dream Resume Builder to discover what types of jobs, volunteer programs and organizations with which you can become involved to develop the best career search resume possible!
  • O*Net and the Occupational Outlook Handbook
      • These are two career guide websites that will supplement your findings on the EPICS inventory - or - that you can utilize separately to research the current job market.
        • O*Net includes a feature that allow you to plug in your results from EPICS to search and learn about careers that match your interests.
        • The Occupational Outlook Handbook allows you to research information including earnings, expected job prospects, what workers do on the job, working conditions and training and education needed.
  • The Career Center 
      • As its name suggests, the Career Center is designed to meet all your needs when it comes to searching for and selecting a career. 
        • Perhaps you'd like to meet with a Career Counselor or Pre-Health Advisor to discuss your interests?
        • Or maybe you'd like to check out their Virtual Advising Board to see what kinds of questions your peers are asking?
        • Be sure to check out the Career Center's links for internships, campus involvement, or externships.  Find out how to get involved and get some real-life experience!  The Virtual Job Board will guide your search for an on or off-campus job.  
        • Also take advantage of their workshops offered throughout the semester on topics such as resume writing, career fairs, networking, interviewing, and negotiating salary.
  • Conduct an Informational Interview
      • Learn more about a job without making any long-term time commitments.  This is an excellent way to network and get tips from individuals who are already working in your desired career field.
  • Job Shadow
      • Consider spending several hours immersed in the career you are pursuing. Spring, summer and holiday breaks are an especially good time to make these experiences happen. Use what you learn at a Career Center Networking Workshop or through an Informational Interview to make connections and get your foot in the door.
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