Undergraduate
Career Roadmap

Your career journey is built step by step. This roadmap highlights what to focus on each year—while helping you build key career readiness competencies and move forward with confidence. 

First Year: Explore

Focus: Learn about yourself and what’s possible

What to Do:

• Explore majors, interests, and career paths through courses, events, and conversations with faculty and peers
• Complete a career assessment to better understand your strengths, values, and interests
• Create a basic resume and LinkedIn profile to begin documenting your experiences
• Attend workshops, info sessions, and Career Center events to learn about opportunities
• Start building connections with classmates, staff, and student organizations

You’re Building These Competencies:

• Career & Self-Development
• Communication
• Equity & Inclusion

Second Year: Build Experience

Focus: Gain hands-on experience and develop skills

What to Do:

• Get involved in student organizations, clubs, or leadership opportunities
• Pursue internships, research, part-time jobs, or volunteer experiences related to your interests
• Refine your resume and LinkedIn with new experiences and accomplishments
• Begin networking with alumni, employers, and professionals in fields of interest
• Practice talking about your skills and experiences in a clear and confident way

You’re Building These Competencies:

• Teamwork
• Professionalism
• Communication
• Leadership

Third Year / Transfer: Focus & Prepare

Focus: Narrow your direction and prepare for next steps

What to Do:

• Secure internships or more advanced, career-related experiences
• Attend career fairs, employer info sessions, and networking events
• Practice interviewing and strengthen your professional communication skills
• Build relationships with mentors, faculty, and industry professionals
• Clarify your post-graduation goals and create a plan for job or graduate school applications

You’re Building These Competencies:

• Critical Thinking
• Leadership
• Technology
• Career & Self-Development

Fourth Year: Launch

Focus: Transition from college to career

What to Do:

• Apply for jobs or graduate/professional school programs aligned with your goals
• Attend recruiting events and actively engage with employers
• Finalize and tailor your resume, cover letters, and application materials
• Leverage your network for referrals, insights, and opportunities
• Meet with a Career Advisor for personalized guidance and final preparation

You’re Building These Competencies:

• Professionalism
• Communication
• Career & Self-Development
• Critical Thinking