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College
Planning

“What do you want to be when you are little.

It’s a question we’re asked countless times as children, but as we develop into adults, it often becomes a question that is difficult to answer.


How does one’s passion about movies, sports, animals, food (or whatever you’re into) translate into a career? Is it possible to do something that is both fulfilling and pays the bills? What kind of education and training do you need?

“What do you want to be when you grow up?”
It’s a question we’re asked countless times as children. But as we develop into adults, it often becomes a question that is difficult to answer.

How does one’s passion about movies, sports, animals, food (or whatever you’re into) translate into a career? Is it possible to do something that is both fulfilling and pays the bills? What kind of education and training do you need?

Choosing a career is one of the most important decisions you will make.

Whether you are a high school student thinking about your future or an adult looking to change careers or finish a degree, make sure you do your research before you commit to a career path.

FINDING YOUR PATH

Learn which careers are in demand.

As the world changes and technology evolves over time, some jobs become more in demand than others. With a list of “hot jobs” and information about expected salaries, LaunchMyCareerFL.org can help students of all ages find their ideal career. The Florida Shines website also has a wealth of career information organized by interests and abilities.

Assess your skills and interests.

Below are just a few of the many tools available to help you choose a career:

MyCareerShines. Sponsored by the State of Florida, MyCareer Shines is a career assessment open to anyone, from middle school students to adult job seekers. A free account is required to start the assessment.

Mynextmove.org. The U.S. Department of Labor Career Planning website, Mynextmove.org, allows you to search for different careers and also take a free career assessment.

Future Plans. This self-awareness and career exploration program helps Hillsborough and Pinellas County public school students discover and understand their talents and interests. Ask your school career counselor for help logging in to take the assessment.

Career Scope. Veterans and military members can use this free career assessment tool to discover jobs suited to their background and to learn about courses and resources available to help with their transition into civilian life.

Connect with real people.

As you explore your career options, don’t forget about one of your best resources – people who actually work in the jobs you are researching! Professional societies or groups like the Rotary Club are a good place to ask people questions, like what they enjoy about their jobs and make connections for the future. Organizations like Career Source Tampa Bay also offer a number of opportunities for in-person engagement through career counseling, job fairs and internships.

For additional help

As you plan for your future career, check out our full list of resources

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