Overcoming Obstacles
You may want to meet with a career counselor if you:
- are experiencing pressure to make a decision now or to pursue a specific career direction.
- are feeling overwhelmed, worried, or anxious about making a career choice.
- are confused and are having difficulty making a decision.
- have other challenges in your life that are taking most of your energy.
- are feeling that you need to talk to someone before you can make a good decision.
Suggestions for Overcoming Obstacles
Take an Interim Step: If a certain goal (e.g. being accepted to the program of your first choice or getting a job you really wanted) simply doesn’t seem attainable, consider taking interim steps, such as applying to the program that could be a bridge to your desired destination.
Go Back to School: If you have found out that a degree or additional training would vastly improve your marketability, then going back to school might be a good idea.
Consider a “Time Out”: If you are beginning to doubt whether you are on the right path or whether the type of major or job you have been thinking about is what you really want, consider study or work abroad. You might teach English, or take an exchange program. A year abroad can be a great character builder. Exploring new avenues may inspire you to do something you've never considered.
Be Proactive: Don’t wait till graduation day. Start looking for the job today! And remember, your degree is not the only thing that makes you employable. In today’s competitive world even the best education might not be enough. If you are lacking experience, a volunteer position might help you fill the gap. Do not sit around and wait for opportunities to come to you. Go find them. Build your network by talking to professors, friends, relatives, and anyone who may have some knowledge and experience in your field of study.
Adapted from the University of Saskatchewan Employment and Career Development website.
Workshops
“Taking the Fear out of Making a Career Choice”. Sometimes career decisions can create debilitating levels of anxiety. This workshop, offered by UNB Career Counselling Services, will help reduce the pressure from what can seem like an overwhelming task. Call 453-4820 or drop in to the CC Jones Student Services Centre to sign up.
