Many high schools, junior colleges and universities offer Skills Assessments and Interests Tests for students. Check with your Career Resource Center to see what they offer. And for those of you who only follow direct instructions, there may not be a Career Resource Center at your school. It may be called something different. Talk to your school counselor or just go into the main office and ask them if they offer these kinds of tests. They'll direct you to the proper person.
Even if you're in junior college or at a 4 year university, it's never too late to take these tests to see if you're on the right track. Like I always say, "Career development is a process; a journey for the rest of your life. Always keep your options open.".
I've been scouting around trying to find high schools that A) have websites and B) have assessment tests and interests tests on their websites. Though my research is by no means thorough, I am still astounded by how few schools actually offer their students these tools. I'm also astounded by the fact that any high school would NOT have a website for their school!
First, check your school's website to see if these assessments/tools are available to you. If not, then check these out.
Wilcox High School has a fairly good and comprehensive website. It contains the following areas for your career research:
They also have interviews with people who actually do these jobs. They answer questions about what they like and don't like about the job, how they got the job, what their typical day at work is like, etc. The site provides information on colleges and programs that might interest you so it would be a good idea just to cruise around and see what's out there. For right now the site is free -- probably because it's intended for Wilcox High School students. But it’s very helpful in getting you started on your career path research.
Rutgers University Career Services is not as thorough as the Wilcox High site but will give you an idea where your interests lie. My big objection is that it asks things that, IMHO, a high school student wouldn't have the life experience to answer honestly. But it’s still a good resource.
If your school doesn't have a Skills and Interest Assessment tool, suggest that they contact the University of Wisconsin Madison WISCareers . They have a very comprehensive Career Resource Development package for high school and junior college students. Check out the demo — it takes you through all parts of the site.
Right now WISCareers only offers their Assessments and other resources to schools but by April 1, 2007 they will make this available to individuals. This means that you can buy a subscription, for about $19.95 for an entire year and have your own account! You'll be in charge of your career planning! You'll need a credit card for this purchase but I'm sure your parents will be happy to help out in that area ;-)
For information on the WISCareers CareerLocker contact:
Jessica Sackett
Ann Fillback Watt
Even if you’re a student, Jessica and Ann would love to hear from you and will be more than happy to answer all your questions.
