What kind of work am I looking for?
Exploring the kind of work that aligns with your interests, values, and skills is a journey that requires reflection, exploration, and engagement with various resources and communities.
Here's how you can embark on this exploration using the services and programs offered at U of T and beyond.
1. Job Shadowing
2. Informational Interviews
3. Mentorship Programs
4. Self-Directed Career Exploration
1. Job Shadowing
Participate in job shadowing programs to gain firsthand experience of what it's like to work in specific roles and industries. UofT Job Shadowing or In the Field allows students to observe professionals on the job, offering a real-world glimpse into various career fields.
Attend networking events and conferences hosted on campus:
Job Shadowing: Short-term opportunities to explore careers by shadowing a community professional.
In the Field: Go on a field trip to an organization and meet professionals from a range of departments.
Industry Spotlights: Network with professionals working in industry-specific careers.
Career fairs: Meet with recruiters, hiring managers and employees from Canada’s top employers and global organizations.
2. Informational Interviews
Conduct informational interviews with professionals in fields you're interested in. This strategy allows you to gather insider knowledge about the realities of working in certain professions and to build your network. Prepare by attending workshops on networking and informational interviewing offered by Career Exploration and Education, which can provide you with the skills to reach out effectively and make the most of these conversations.
- Join the U of T Hub on Ten Thousand Coffees! It is a career networking platform for the whole U of T community. With more than 3,000 alumni professionals across many fields, students and recent graduates like you can seek out career advice anytime and from anywhere. Monthly webinars with alumni deliver learning around best practices in the workplace.
- Explore Career Navigator and connect with U of T alumni.
- Attend a Networking Workshop. Networking allows you to gather information about your career questions and establish connections with people who share your professional interests. Register on Career & Co-curricular Learning Network
Do you need some tips on how to approach an informational interview? Learn more here about informational interviews.
3. Mentorship Programs
Engage in mentorship programs where you can connect with alumni or professionals who provide guidance, advice, and insights into their career paths.
It is never too early or too late to start a mentorship program. You can even mentor other students.
Many colleges and departments offer mentorship programs that match students with mentors in their field of interest. Use the Mentorship Database to find mentorship programs according to your year of study, program and mentorship interests.
4. Self-Directed Career Exploration
There are many ways to explore self-directed learning—you are already doing it! It begins with asking yourself what you want to do. What do you like? Learn more about your values and interests.
Want to dig a bit deeper? Try the self-assessment tools and resources available on the What’s Important to Me?
Try these activities:
Searching for more resources to support your job search?
Check out these Career Start links about the job search & interviews: