AVID 2: Career Exploration Activity 1. Use a graphic organizer to brainstorm careers in which you are interested. 2.

Based on you knowledge of yourself, select a career to investigate. Write a description of the field that interests you and list possible jobs within that field. 3. Research the following career-related areas: (see the attached sheet for a more

thorough explanation)

Component 1 Job Environment Working Hours and conditions Typical Salary Component 2 Education and Training Special Skills and Abilities Physiological Requirements Component 3 Personal Characteristics Advantages or Rewards Disadvantages or Drawbacks

4. While researching determine the answer to the following questions: What skills should people in this field have? Are there specialty areas within the field? How do people in this field work with people in other fields? What related careers are possible for someone trained in this field? Are there professional organizations that support people in this field? What salaries and benefits can people in this career expect? What are some typical jobs that someone in this field might perform? Why is there a continuing need for this career? 5. With approval, interview at least two people who currently work in the occupation you are researching. 6. Develop interview questions that will help you understand the following: Know what is involved in day to day activities on the job Decide if you might be interested in this line of work Think seriously about ways to prepare for this career 7. Conduct the interviews in person, over the phone, by letter, or through email. Summarize the interviews in writing to offer insight and advice to students who may be interested in that career.

8. Design a map that shows the possible paths you might follow to get to this career. You might consider: Meeting with a counselor to learn about the high school curriculum necessary for this career and to find out post-secondary requirements as well. You should investigate at least one private college and one state college that will help you to prepare for this career. Research internships, apprenticeships, or similar work-related experiences that may be recommended or required for this career. 9. The first part of the map you create should include a high school path. Identify the courses required for this path. 10. Divide the second part of the map in two parts: One with a private college path and one with a state college path. Include as much information as possible on the map including majors, courses needed, etc. End each path at a door that opens to the career you have chosen. 11. Create a brochure for the career of your choice. Present what you consider to be some of the important facts and pieces of advice from your research.

You can use any of the following sites: http://www.careerjournal.com/ http://www.khake.com/page2.html http://www.bls.gov/k12/ http://www.bls.gov/oco/ http://collegegrad.com/careers/ http://www.careeroverview.com/ http://www.kidinfo.com/careers/careers.html