Four Year Plan

We hope that students while undertaking a rigorous academic program, seriously consider the future. And a wonderfully bright future it is. Yes, we are in a challenging time in the economy; and, yes, securing employment and acceptance into graduate programs requires harder work than in the recent past. All the more reason to begin planning now, from whatever stage you currently find yourself. Here are some general guidelines:

Senior Year

• Prioritize career fields
• Review the upcoming workshops and events
• Gain additional experiences to strengthen your skill sets
• Update your resume and cover letter
• Network with alumni and other professionals in fields of interest
• Practice interviewing for employment and/or graduate school
• Schedule an appointment to meet with a career counselor to review goals

Junior Year

• Narrow career interests
• Gain experience through internships (more is better)
• Review upcoming career workshops and events
• Update your resume and develop a cover letter
• Plan now for applications and testing for graduate school
• Interview for summer internships and/or advanced experiences
• Meet with a career counselor to assist in goal clarification

Sophomore Year

• Declare your major!
• Meet with an academic advisor and career counselor to assist with major clarification
• Join a student organization and become involved on campus
• Participate in community service and develop leadership skills
• Prepare a resume and review the draft with a career counselor
• Attend career workshops and events

Freshman Year

• Adjust to and learn about the Lewis & Clark campus
• Discover the balance between academics, campus activities and social life
• Explore majors and start reviewing your options
• Complete interest and personality inventories to uncover academic and career ideas
• Draft a resume and analyze what you have enjoyed while thinking about what might be missing