Our Four Step Process
Career development may be conceptualized as a four-step cycle, beginning with an exploration of the self, moving next to researching career fields and professions, then on to launching an effective job search, and finally to developing and managing your career. Students and alumnae will experience the career development cycle many times during their work lives. CWS resources are categorized according to the four steps in the Career Development Cycle to assist students and alumnae in career-related work.
Each step has a corresponding set of resources and tasks which, when addressed, will help you to move to the next step (see below). By clicking on a link, you will reach information and resources addressing that area.
Step 1: Gaining Clarity and Direction
Where Do I Begin?
- Four Year Calendar for Students
- Career Counseling Appointment
- Workshops
- Self-Assessment Exercises
- The CWS Library Resources for Career Inventories and Self-Assessment
Step 2: Researching Careers and Exploring Options
- Using the CWS Library and Internet to Research Careers
- Internships
- Community Service
- Summer Stipend Program
- Shadow Program
- Information Interviewing
- Alumnae Participation in On-Campus Programs
Step 3: Planning a Strategy/Conducting a Search
Finding a Job
- Resumes That Work
- Job Search Letters
- Targeting Potential Employers: Job Search Strategies
- The Not-for-Profit and Public Service Job Search
- CWS Recruiting Program
- W Network
- Successful Interviewing
Applying to Graduate or Professional School
- Thinking It Through
- Arts and Sciences
- Health Professions
- Law School
- Getting References
- Fellowships
Step 4: Developing and Expanding Professional Skills-- Managing Your Career