Career Exploration/Research Worksheet
Go to the online Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.bls.gov/ooh/)
Locate the list of Occupation Groups (ex. Architecture and Engineering, Arts and Design, etc.)
Select the Occupation Group that appeals to you the most and click the title.
1. Select an occupation from the ones listed. You will have an opportunity to view similar jobs
once you have clicked an occupation. You may also look for occupations of interest by
clicking the “Occupation Finder.”
2. What are the Quick Facts listed for this occupation on the Occupational Outlook Handbook?
3. Describe the work environment of this occupation. Does anything in this description appeal to
you? If so, what? Does anything seem unappealing to you? If so, what?
4. What are the general steps for getting into this profession?
5. What is the job outlook? Is there an indication that you might have to live in a particular
region to have a greater chance of employment in this field?
6. Are there similar occupations that appeal to you? If so, what are they?
7. For the main occupation you chose, select the “What They Do” tab and look at the list of
duties. How do these daily activities relate to your skills and interests?
8 Select the “How to Become One” tab. What level of education is required? Is special
licensure or certification required?
9. Under the “How to Become One” tab, look at the Important Qualities listed. In looking at
these, identify which you believe you currently possess and which you would like to develop
or strengthen. Do you think there might opportunities within your major to develop these
skills?
10. Select the “Contacts for More Info” tab. These sites may provide additional information
and may have a job database allowing you to see the types of positions currently in this field.