Do you remember when career exploration was playing make-believe? At any given time you could switch from being a master chef to a brain surgeon to an archeologist with just the change of a costume. If only choosing a career were as easy as a wardrobe change.

Career exploration involves research, observation, experimentation and relationship building. And although stressful at times, it can be fun and exciting. You just need to develop the right approach to the process of looking for the right career.

Narrow career options
One of the biggest mistakes young adults make in career exploration is giving themselves too many choices. The average person has a few natural skills that can translate into a career. If you don’t have an aptitude for science, you will not do well in medicine, even if you have always dreamt of being a doctor. Identify your natural talents and find careers that utilize those skill sets. For instance, if you are extremely patient and good at explaining things in simple terms, a career in teaching, tutoring or early child care might be a great fit.

Choose a career with longevity
Technology has continued to shape the job market. Many jobs that were in demand a decade ago have decreased in importance. Others have been eliminated all together. Self-check out at the grocery store has eliminated many cashier positions. It is important that as you explore your career options you choose from careers that will be around for a while.

A great place to start is the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). According to the BLS, there are some careers that will experience tremendous growth during the next decade. Although you might not be interested in a particular job, you might find that your skills are still needed in the specific industry.

The ten hottest careers for college graduates are network systems and data communications analysts; physician assistants; medical records and health information technicians; computer software engineers, applications; computer software engineers, systems software; physical therapist assistants; fitness trainers and aerobics instructors; database administrators; veterinary technologists and technicians; and dental hygienists.

Get a closer look with internships
Now that you have a clearer picture of what career piques your interest, dive in! You will need first-hand knowledge to make a well-informed decision. The best way to find out what a career really entails is to find an internship. Internships allow you the opportunity to work in your desired field, exposing you to the reality of the job, not the glamour that many careers enjoy.

While you are learning the ropes of your desired profession, don’t forget to make connections. Many times young adults are intimidated by the idea of networking. It is not as bad as people make it out to be. You can start with your internship supervisor and the professionals you work with directly. Ask them if they belong to any national or local professional organizations. If the do, get information about membership and upcoming events. These are just more opportunities to build relationships while learning the insides of your desired profession.

No one likes to feel overwhelmed. Having too many career choices is definitely overwhelming. Making your search manageable by narrowing your career options, focusing on careers with a future such as the ten hottest careers mentioned above, seeking first-hand experience through internships and building relationships with professionals in the field will pay off handsomely in the long run.

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