Parents

How can I help my student in his/her career exploration?

Because you know your student better than anyone, you are an integral part in the process of helping your son/daughter to discover work in which they will thrive. We encourage parents to be involved in their student's career exploration and job search planning throughout their time at Curry.

You can begin your involvement by:

• Encouraging your student to visit the Center for Career Development early and often during their college career. We can offer assistance from self-exploration and choosing a major to career identification and job search strategy development.
• Talking with your student about what you see as his/her skills, interests and abilities. Often another perspective is helpful in identifying those special qualities we can't always see in ourselves.
• Telling your student about your job and current responsibilities, as well as your own career path. Identify any friends or professional colleagues who do work that might be interesting to your son/daughter. Young adults may be familiar with job titles but often don't understand exactly what it is a job entails. If possible, ask your son/daughter to job shadow you (or a friend) for a ½ day as this can be a valuable introduction to the work world.
• Encouraging your student to do at least one internship and the prerequisite course EXP 2340 "Introduction to Experiential Learning." An internship is a great way to explore different career options and employers rate practical experience higher than any other criteria in their hiring decisions.
• Volunteering for the Center for Career Development. We offer opportunities throughout the year, in several different forums, for businessesto come to our campus and speak to students about their work. We also welcome Curry parents to offer insights about what it really is like to enter and work in particular industries.
• Using your network of contacts. 70% of new jobs are found through the "hidden job market," and as a college student or recent grad, you are your son/daughter's best source of professional contacts. Whether for an informational interview, a job shadow, an internship or a job, your student has an invaluable resource in your friends, neighbors, colleagues, family members, etc.

Please visit the Center for Career Development (located in the King Building), or contact us at (617) 333-2195, or careerdevelopment@curry.edu if we can be of assistance to you or your son/daughter.