How to... Career Planning Process from Saddleback College

The Career Planning Process is a lifelong process that is fluid rather than chronological. One stage does not necessarily need to be completed to move to the tasks of another stage, and you may move back and forth between two or more stages at any given time.

Step	Stage	Web Sites and Resources
1.	*Self Assessment:* (Finding out who you are and what you want) * What are you skills, interests, values and personality? * What is your idea of work and a career? * What do you want your career to be?	Self Assessment Stage and Links
2.	*Exploration:* (Finding out more about the world of work and education) * Investigate possible career fields and talk to people who work in careers that interest you. * Use internships, volunteer jobs, and part-time work to sample jobs and careers that interest you. * Research majors and careers that match your self-assessment.	Exploration Stage and Links Career Center Library Saddleback College Library
3.	*Decision Making:* (Analyzing the information) * Begin to define your specific career goals. * Make tentative career decisions. * Set short and long term goals that allow you to reach your chosen career.	Decision Making Stage and Links
4.	*Educational Planning:* (Developing a Plan for Success) * Researching two year and four year college programs that will allow you to reach your career goals. * Decide on the amount of time you are willing to attend college or program. * Establish a plan that allows you to complete your education and training in a time frame that works for you.	Educational Planning Stage and Links
5.	*Job and Career Search:* (Looking For A job) * Develop a job search plan of action. * Establish and use job search resources and contacts. * Overcome barriers and keep motivated. * Manage your career with an up-to-date cover letters and resumes. (this service is not offered by this office, please search OC one-stop to find your nearest EDD office)	Job and Career Search Links
	Other:
	Scholarship Information:	Scholarship Links

For questions or comments, please contact Don Mineo
Saddleback College does not promote one specific web site and would not suggest to utilized pay sites unless the student researches the product.