Freshman Career Checklist

Your first year at TSU is the perfect time to explore career paths, develop professional skills, and start building your network. Use this checklist to stay organized and make the most of your freshman year!

Fall: Build Your Foundation

Professional Development

  • Build a strong resume highlighting your skills, achievements, GPA, leadership, technical skills, and volunteerism.
  • Have your resume reviewed by Career Pathways Center staff.
  • Create a LinkedIn profile to connect with TSU alumni, faculty, and professionals.
  • Continue informational interviews to learn more about potential career paths.

Academic & Career Planning

  • Explore majors, minors, and industries that align with your interests and passions.
  • Meet with a Career Advisor to review your career assessment results and refine your goals.
  • Identify part-time, internship, or volunteer opportunities to gain hands-on experience.

Campus & Leadership Engagement

  • Take on a leadership role in a student organization or club.
  • Participate in career-related campus projects or events.

Spring: Explore & Discover

Time Management & Goal Setting

  • Learn strategies to manage your time effectively.
  • Set short-term goals for academics, involvement, and career exploration.
  • Include breaks and downtime to maintain balance.

Career Exploration

  • Talk with your academic advisors and professors about career options.
  • Identify your skills, strengths, hobbies, and career values.
  • Meet with a Career Advisor at the Career Pathways Center to discuss career interests.
  • Take an interest or personality inventory online at cpc.tsu.edu.
  • Join professional organizations or student groups related to your field.
  • Start researching careers of interest and learn about day-to-day responsibilities.
  • Conduct informational interviews with professionals in fields you want to explore.

Campus Engagement

  • Get involved in clubs, organizations, or student leadership opportunities.
  • Nurture hobbies and skills that might translate to future careers.

Summer: Gain Experience & Skills

Career Exploration & Experience

  • Seek summer internships, micro-internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time jobs in your field of interest.
  • Ask to shadow professionals to observe day-to-day work life.
  • Attend career workshops offered by the Career Pathways Center.
  • Work on residence hall or student organization projects to gain teamwork and leadership experience.
  • Join professional associations to expand your network and learn more about your field.