The following are ten ways that you can help your student explore and prepare for the future:
Share your own story, talk about your educational experiences, what your career path has been, and what you liked or disliked about your various jobs.
Have other family members--grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins--share their stories as well.
Read the newspaper together and discuss what's happening in the economy and local job market.
Take your student to work and allow him or her to job shadow you or a colleague .
Take your student to a professional or trade association meeting.
Reserve judgment–your student is most likely going to change her or his mind many times in the next few years.
Understand that the first job out of college is not the last job your student will have, but rather one of many.
Support your student in their searching–allow them time to keep their options open while exploring different career paths before making a decision.
Encourage your student to begin their own financial planning, including helping them understand the importance of taking advantage of their 401(k) benefits, health benefits, and other compensation.
Introduce your student to your friends and co-workers to help them make contacts and network.
Networking and Informational Interviewing
Would you be willing to share your story with a Menlo College student? If so, please contact the Director of Career Services for more information. Before any contact names are released, students will be coached through the informational interview process, to ensure that the student is well prepared to take advantage of the time she/he spends with you.
