Your career isn't something that happens to you after graduation — it's something you build, intentionally, starting right now. This framework gives you three goals to focus on each year, so your college journey becomes a career journey too.
Starting college with a blank slate? Good.
This plan is designed for traditional-age students entering UNC Charlotte without prior college credit — students who are beginning their academic journey from the start. You don't need experience, a declared major, or a clear career goal to begin. That's exactly what Year 1 is for. Wherever you're starting from, this framework meets you there and helps you build forward — one intentional step at a time.
Self-Discovery & Purposeful Work
- Explore what brings you joy, energy, and meaning — and begin to name your values and strengths (consider taking PathwayU to guide your self-exploration)
- Clarify your interests and understand what purposeful work looks like for you - check out the Explore Action Plan
- Use what you've learned to intentionally design your college journey — and consider a conversation with a Career Coach to process what you've discovered
Career Brand & Social Capital
- Build a professional identity that authentically reflects who you are — through tools like a LinkedIn profile and resume; check out the Personal Brand Action Plan
- Gain real-world experience that tests your interests against actual work — through opportunities like an internship or job simulations via Forage
- Invest in relationships that open doors and broaden your perspective - through alumni, faculty, and professionals in the field
Skills, Experience & Leadership
- Deepen your experience through sustained, meaningful engagement in your field - through internships and related activities
- Develop and demonstrate the career and professional skills employers value most - on the job, internship, or professional networking
- Refine your career direction based on what you've learned by doing - check out the Internship/Full-Time Job Search Action Plan
Skills, Experience & Leadership
- Position yourself for purposeful work by telling a clear, compelling professional story — including practicing for the interview; check out the Interview Action Plan
- Evaluate opportunities through the lens of your values — not just your options
- Launch your career with confidence, intention, and a network ready to support you
Every student's journey looks different. Visit career.charlotte.edu to explore the full range of resources, services, and events that will help you build your own path to purposeful work — one that reflects your unique background, strengths, and goals.