“Career worry tops their list of stressors,” says Maria Pascucci, student stress expert and founder of CampusCalm.com. “College is expensive and many (students) are worried about picking the right major - and then deciding after that, you don't like the career you've chosen. Or worse, that in our current economic climate, you won’t find a job.”
Instead of focusing on "The Right Major" and "Perfect Career," says Pascucci, parents should encourage their children to discover their passions, find career paths that fit those interests, and build “transferable skills” – writing and communication, time management, research, public speaking and teamwork skills - that are appropriate for any line of work. And summer is the perfect time to explore. Here are three ways your child can do that:
- Research career paths online, starting with the web sites for professional societies. Chemistry majors, for example, do more than wield petri dishes. A glance at the American Chemical Society career guide offers job descriptions in 30 different chemistry-related disciplines, from CSI-style forensic science to science writing and flavorist – a division of food science that analyzes flavors.
- Visit the college career center. It’s free, staffed year round, and brimming with resources. Take an interest test, get help with a resume, discuss career paths with a counselor, and look for internships and jobs.
- Find an internship. Internships give young people a sneak peek, so to speak, at a career. They gain experience, make connections and discover firsthand what it’s like to work in a particular environment. If they hate it, that’s valuable information. And if they’re intrigued, it’s a terrific first step on a new career path and a great addition to a resume.
