Career Planning in 4 Steps
Once students have activated their HandShake account, they are ready to begin the career planning process! We recommend that students start this process their freshman year to maximize access to Franciscan University’s academic resources and career services staff.
Step 1: Complete the PathwayU assessment.
The link is found under “Major and Career Exploration Tools” within Handshake’s “Career Center.”
PathwayU is a patented career planning and assessment tool that enables us to zero in on the uniqueness of each student to allow for more personalized support through the journey. Every student is encouraged to take the PathwayU assessment at the start of their academic career. Students will answer questions about values, interests, personality, and workplace preferences in a format that is designed to be fun and off-the-cuff. The entire assessment can be completed is as little as 20 minutes.
Based on the student’s responses, the assessment then utilizes a unique combination of cutting-edge predictive science and a patented algorithm to make suggestions for career matches that would provide a sense of meaningful and purposeful work.
Take a look at these sample PathwayU results:
Step 2: Schedule an appointment to discuss PathwayU findings with one of our experienced career counselors.
The link is in Handshake’s “Career Center,” labeled “Appointments.”
By providing early clarity metrics such as PathwayU, we aim to guide students not just to an area of study, but to purposeful and meaningful careers.
Click the images for larger view.
Once students complete the assessment, they’ll be matched with some potential career paths. If you don’t feel like any of these matches are for you, that’s okay! They’re meant to serve as a starting point to start imagining what a successful career looks like for you. Use this data when you meet with our career service counselors, and they can help you sort through what does and doesn’t work for you.
Step 3: Research and Networking
This step typically starts sophomore year and continues through junior year.
Once students have targeted a potential career and have begun the appropriate academic preparation, it’s time to begin the search for experimental opportunities that will put their classroom knowledge to the test and provide a testing ground for a career fit. This will require the use of practical application tools like Forage, micro-internships, and employment opportunities that are accessible through HandShake’s own live job board.
Throughout the journey, students are encouraged to attend special events offered by employers and attend our own special workshops on resume writing, establishing a LinkedIn presence, networking, and interview preparation.
Step 4: Internships
Currently, 75% of Franciscan University students complete an internship or similar hands-on experience in an applied learning environment. Such opportunities are available to every student who embraces the career planning process and takes advantage of the services we offer.
It’s never too early to start looking for an internship. Many students start networking and researching opportunities their sophomore year and start internships the summer before their junior year.
We consider it our great privilege to walk this career discernment path with each and every. student who longs to fulfill their personal vocation!
