In today's competitive job market and changing workplace, students will be more successful in entering a career field if they take the time to explore career options; plan ahead and acquire knowledge, skills, and experiences related to their career interests; and develop effective job hunting strategies to connect them with employment opportunities. Parents can play an active and supportive role in this career development process!

• Encourage your son or daughter to visit University Career Services early in their college career to learn about the resources available to them. We have 11 Career Counselors, each assigned to work with various majors and undeclared students.
  Each year, Career Services publishes Moving On, a career planning and job hunting guide that is free to George Mason students.
• Support their major/career exploration and be patient with their consideration of a variety or alternatives. Students are usually most successful when they select a major that is compatible with their interests, values, and abilities, and one in which they can achieve academically. These factors are far more important that the perceived "practicality" or popularity of the major.
• Introduce your son or daughter to people in professional fields who can provide them with career contacts. Information and contacts (networking) enhance and open doors to many future opportunities.
• Help them identify their strengths and achievements, and areas for development. The ability to effectively communicate skills and successes is critical. Many students have difficulty identifying their strengths and benefit from feedback.
• Support and encourage their involvement in leadership and student organization activities on and off campus. One of the most effective ways to make the most out of college and life is to be an active participant. Employers highly value campus involvement on resumes.
• Stress the importance of gaining career-related experience through internships, Co-op, and summer or part-time jobs. Most employers prefer to hire students with experience in their field and it will assist your student in confirming their choice of major and occupation.

Selecting a Major & Occupation: Reconciling Differences in Expectation and Desires

Critical Skills in the Workplace