As you have already chosen your program of study, you may think you have completed your career exploration. Nothing could be further from the truth! Your program could lead to an endless number of career opportunities and a specific focus will be important as you look for work.

The first step in any career exploration process is to know yourself and recognize what, and who, might influence your career decisions. With this information, you can begin to explore the world of work, looking for where you might best fit. Of course, many of the factors that influence career choice can change over time, making it important to engage in this process of exploration often.

Amundson’s and Poehnell’s Career Wheel is a valuable framework for any career exploration process. The Wheel has 8 sections, each separated by a dotted line indicating that the section may expand or contract depending on how important it is. The top half of the Wheel are external factors, such as your significant others or the opportunities available in your community. The bottom half are internal factors such as your skills and interests. The centre – Career Alternatives – are all the options that might surface during your exploration. Let’s explore these in greater detail.