How many times have you thought or been asked what you are             going to do when you grow up? In this project, you will not only             explore future career opportunities, but you'll learn some practical            steps for landing your dream job!       How many times have you thought or been asked, "What are you going to do when you grow up?" As you get older, you have to give this question                       much more serious thought. Take advantage of this opportunity to discuss         some career options with your mentor. Student: Share with your mentor the career(s) that you think you might like to pursue. Mentor: Share with your student what profession you wanted to pursue when you were the student's age. If what you thought you wanted to be is different than what you are today, explain why.             Taking a closer look at your personality and skills can better enable you to find the perfect job. Go to the The Birkman Quiz Web site, which offers self-assessment opportunities to determine your Job IQ: http://www.review.com/career/careerQuiz1.cfm?careers=6&menuID=0 * Answer the 24 Questions. * Select "Continue." Student: What did you find out about yourself? Share that information with your mentor. Mentor: What did your results show? Share them with the student.

One of the most important components of getting a job is your resume. A resume provides a snapshot of you - your skills and potential as a candidate to employers. You've probably heard the saying, "You only have one chance to make a first impression." Since you have one shot at getting the attention of potential employers, make the most of it by offering an accurate, concise and professional resume. Mentor: Tell your student what you think should be included in a quality resume. If you need additional information about writing resumes, visit these sites: * JobWeb @ http://www.jobweb.com/Resumes_Interviews/resume_guide/restips.html * All 4 Resumes @ http://www.all4resumes.com/ * 7 Step Resume Sampler @ http://www.7step-resumesampler.com/ Student: Prepare and write your own resume. When it is completed, share it with your mentor for discussion. Make any necessary changes.

After sending out resumes to prospective employers, the best possible scenario is for you to be called for an interview to discuss in greater detail your skills and what you can bring to the job. Companies typically require a series of interviews from prospective candidates; often you will meet with more than one person who you would interact with if hired. How can you get through this phase of the job process with flying colors? Practice an Interview Online. Mentor: Make a list of 5 questions for the student, or use the five listed below. * What do you do best? * What do you think you need to improve? * Describe for me your greatest achievements. * What person has had the greatest influence in your life? * If you could accomplish only one thing in your lifetime, what would it be, and why? Student: Respond to the questions and wait for feedback from your mentor.

Now that you have given some thought to the career you might like to pursue and practiced some of the skills necessary to get the job you want, what are the next steps to help you move closer to your goal? Ask your mentor what classes you should take to prepare you for the world of work. Should you try and get a summer job or volunteer in the business or nonprofit organization that you are interested in to give you a first-hand look at what that job really offers? Together come up with 3-5 action steps that will help make your chosen profession a reality!