ARC helps students find majors, plan careers

By Eric Reikowski, media relations assistant

Deciding on a career path is one of the most daunting and complex challenges students face during college. To help students overcome that hurdle, the Advising Resource Center (ARC) offers free counseling services designed to broaden awareness of the myriad of career options available.

ARC career counselors guide students through a career exploration process that includes self-assessment, major and career research, decision-making and goal-setting.

“With so many career possibilities, it can be difficult to determine which career path is the best fit,” said Lindsay Oliver, ARC career and academic adviser.

“The ARC has resources to help students through the career exploration process so they can make a well-informed decision about a career.”

The ARC provides self-assessment tools, including tests that help identify students’ personality traits, interests and values. The results are used to determine which careers may be viable options.

Students can begin to investigate major and career possibilities utilizing several online research tools available in the ARC. These resources provide specific information about career fields, including salary information, work hours, daily duties, educational requirements and job outlook.

Counselors advise students who decide on a career choice not to overlook the importance of setting goals and taking action to achieve them. An integral part of the exploration process is gaining practical knowledge through job shadowing, informational interviews and networking.

“As career counselors, we help students to identify their strengths, abilities and interests,” Oliver explained. “As students determine their academic and career goals, they become motivated to take the necessary steps to accomplish these goals.”

To make an appointment with a career counselor, students should contact the ARC at (248) 370-3227. Students can also register for group counseling and workshops at the CLAW Web site.