Expert: Sharon Reed Abboud - 12/8/2008

Question
Hello, first let me say forgive me if I am asking the wrong expert. I am about to finish my first semester in college and have yet to choose a major. Although regardless of what I decide to pursue, I plan on getting an associate degree, trying to land a job with it, and pursuing a bachelor degree part time (of course this is all hypothetical). My question is, with the recession and decreasing job market, what are some jobs that will still offer job security and a good check in a couple of years? Again, forgive me if this is outside your expertise, but any advice you have would be appreciated.

Answer
Lee,

Thanks for your question. There are many resources to help you choose your major and your future career. Your first step should be to visit your campus Career Center. It is never too early to visit the Career Center. They will have many resources to help you.

Be sure to make an appointment to talk to your academic advisor, too, in order to ask their advice about possible majors and careers.

Here are a few good web resources for you to check out:

* Career Voyages: http://www.careervoyages.gov/ a government site focused on high growth jobs.

* The Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/OCO/
On the Occupational Outlook Handbook, you can find out information on hundreds of different jobs, including: the training and education needed, earnings, expected job prospects, what workers do on the job, and working conditions.

* College Board: Majors and Careers Central:
http://www.collegeboard.com/student/csearch/majors_careers/index.html

I also suggest that you check out the following article on the Quintessential Careers website:

* "Choosing a College Major: How to Chart Your Ideal Path":
http://www.quintcareers.com/choosing_major.html

I hope this is helpful to you. Good luck!