Otterbein University > First Steps

Where do you begin?

Discover your interests, set goals for your future, and explore majors and career options. Career planning will ensure that the decisions you make and the actions you take as a college student will put you on the right path – a path that will lead you to a lifetime of career achievements and personal fulfillment.

Ask yourself the following questions:

Do I really know what my skills, interest, and values are? Do I have specific plans for what I want to do after graduation?

No – I am ready to DISCOVER (link to Discover in Four-Year Timetable)
Yes – Proceed to the next question

Do I have a major or majors in mind, but wonder how they translate into a career? Do I need to have more information about career options before I make up my mind?

No – I have chosen a major and am sure what career I want to pursue. Proceed to the next question.
Yes - I am ready to EXPLORE (link to Explore in Four-Year Timetable)

Have I had a chance to get a variety of hands-on experiences in this career field?

No – I am ready to EXPERIENCE (link to Experience in Four-Year Timetable)
Yes - I have had several career-related internships or other relevant work or volunteer experiences. - Proceed to the next question.

Do I have a clear plan for locating and obtaining a job in this field? Do I understand how to make myself the most effective job candidate?

No – I am ready to PREPARE/IMPLEMENT (link to Prepare/Implement in Four-Year Timetable)
Yes – Check out our Job Searching section (link to Job Searching) to learn about a full range of job search options.