Internet Resources
The following internet resources will give you job titles, employers and skills associated with various CMU majors and common majors available at many colleges and universities.
What Can I Do With a Major/Minor in..? Podcasts
Please go to iTunesU to download short podcasts about the following academic programs: art, child development, communication, gerontology, history, interior design, psychology and recreation, parks and leisure administration. It is necessary to have iTunes on your computer to download these podcasts; there is a free iTunes download linked to the site.
CMU Major Resource Cards
Need some quick information about career options and skills association with different CMU majors? Check out the following two-sided informational cards:
Research employers and companies at Campus Events
Each semester Career Services has several career fairs where employers, from a variety of fields, visit CMU's campus to require students for full-time and internship positions. Students are welcome to network with employers at these events even if they are not yet ready to pursue employment or internships experiences. Many employer pre-interview events are only listed on eRecruiting which requires access, follow the link below to gain access to the system and to find even more networking opportunities!
Use the Internet to Research Jobs and Careers Related to Majors
Compare job titles and career related information, in-demand jobs, emerging industries at sites like:
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America's Career InfoNet
A U.S. Department of Labor-sponsored site with more than 500 1-2 minute career videos in English and more than 300 in Spanish. -
The Sloan Career Cornerstone Center (for exploring careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, computing, and healthcare)
Speak With Faculty and Other Students in Departments of Interest
Meet with faculty in departments you are exploring, in addition speak with current students in those programs to inquire about the classes, and opportunities related to research, internships and job shadowing.
Conduct Informational Interviews With Professionals In Fields You Are Exploring
It is great to read about careers but it could be more beneficial to discuss them with professionals in the field!
Obtain Practical Experience
Employers and graduate schools look at a candidate's experience (paid or unpaid) related to their career interests. Part-time positions, volunteer experiences, research with faculty are just a few of the ways to obtain experience in your chosen field.
Acquire Transferable Skills
By enrolling in courses, attending workshops, participating in team or other organized activities, to develop competencies in skills that are useful in a variety of academic and career settings. Computer knowledge, communication skills, foreign languages, diversity and international issues awareness, interpersonal relations skills, research, and leadership skills are examples. Keep in mind the importance of other “self-improvement” issues that have been pinpointed by employers as barriers or bonuses to advancement like: initiative, positive attitude, integrity; reliability; ability to handle stress; and high work quality.
Participate in Professional Development Activities and Organizations
The Office of Student Life maintains a list of clubs and organizations along with student and advisor contact information. Contact representative from organizations you are interested in or that tie into your major or career interests and attend a meeting to check them out! CMU academic departments will also have information about student organizations tied to their academic programs. Contact departments directly to find out any other related organizations that may not be registered with Student Life.