What's out there?

Two students writing notes

In the vast sea of information that surrounds us, navigating the waters of career opportunities can often feel overwhelming. Yet, within this abundance lies immense potential—untapped opportunities waiting to be discovered. "What is Out There?" is not just a question but a call to embark on a journey of exploration and self-discovery

In this spirit of exploration and possibility, we invite you to consider these strategies for identifying your career possibilities:

  1. Engage in Career Exploration programs
  2. Connect with Alumni and Network
  3. Explore if an industry is right for you
  4. Talk to a Career Educator or Peer Advisor
  5. Volunteer or Join a Club
  6. Participate in global learning

 

Want to dig a bit deeper? Try these activities: 
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1. Engage in Career Exploration programs

Participate in one of Career Exploration & Education's career exploration programs. These connect you with career professionals. You can ask questions and learn the latest about careers, companies and industries. The more you connect with professionals working in the career you are exploring, the more you will learn about whether it’s a good fit for you. Connecting with professionals is a great way to explore careers and expand your options in our changing world.

Go ahead, explore!

And so much more 

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2. Connect with alumni and network

  • Attend a Student & Alumni Networking Night. These events are open to U of T students and recent graduates (up to 2 years after graduation). Connect with alumni and industry professionals from a wide range of industries with valuable experience, diverse skillsets and career advice

 

  • Join the U of T Hub on Ten Thousand Coffees today! It is a career networking platform for the whole U of T community. With more than 3,000 alumni professionals across many fields, students and recent graduates like you can seek out career advice any time and from anywhere. Monthly webinars with alumni deliver learning around best practices in the workplace.

 

  • Explore Career Navigator and connect with U of T alumni. Career Navigator connects a strong network of Alumni who, when they share their stories, provide examples of all that is possible with a University of Toronto degree.

 

  • Attend a Networking Strategies Workshop. Networking allows you to gather information about your career questions and establish connections with people who share your professional interests. Attend this workshop to learn how to connect and network with professionals in ways that feel comfortable and authentic.- Register on Career & Co-curricular Learning Network

 

  • Informational interviews (i.e. talking to professionals in your field) can help you learn about a career area of interest and help you develop professional relationships with people whose career paths excite you.  Refer to the Tips for Informational Interviews as you reach out to contacts

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3. Engage with U of T's Co-Curricular Record

Co-Curricular Record (CCR) is an official document from the University of Toronto that celebrates and recognizes your involvement beyond the classroom. As you navigate your academic path, the CCR is your gateway to enriching experiences that complement your studies and prepare you for future professional or academic pursuits.

Whether you're leading a seminar, participating in a workshop, or volunteering in the community, Folio makes it easy to track your achievements and connect them to valuable skills. By engaging in these opportunities, you enhance your university experience and build a robust profile that stands out.

  • Explore Folio: Find activities that resonate with your interests and ambitions.
  • Record and Recognize: Keep a detailed log of your activities and the skills you develop at UofT. Receive an official U of T document acknowledging your proactive engagement and leadership.

Visit  Folio and learn more about how you can make the most of your co-curricular experiences at U of T.

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4. Volunteer or join a club

U of T has over a thousand clubs. They cater to diverse interests like academia, gaming, social causes, sustainability, cultural dialogue, dance and film-making. Search for clubs through the Student Organization Portal website.

Want some inspiration? Avant-garde filmmaker Atom Egoyan (B.A., Trinity College, Hon DSL, Hon LLD) speaks about how getting caught up with the film board at Hart House while pursuing a degree in international relations influenced his career as a filmmaker.

The Centre for Community Partnerships also hosts a variety of programs that allow you to engage with the community.

To explore more volunteer opportunities, check out the following websites:

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5. Talk to a Career Educator or Peer Career Advisor

Book a one-on-one career advising appointment with a Career Educator or Peer Career Advisor if you are exploring your options, looking for work or considering graduate school.

We can help you put a strategy in place!

  • Pre-booked appointments (30 min) are available to book up to one week in advance.
  • Just-in-time (30 min) appointments are available to book by 10:30 a.m. on the day before the appointment is held.

Contact Career Exploration & Education through the online chat and log in to the Career and Co-Curricular Learning Network (CLNx) to book your appointment with the St. George Career Exploration & Education team.

You could also visit Career Support Drop-ins to speak to a Career Educator or Peer Advisor.

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6. Participate in global learning

Employers value global experience and education. Whether you are going abroad or participating in a global classroom, you can develop a broader, more global network, build language skills, and develop other intercultural competencies which are valuable in today’s global marketplace.

Whether you’re interested in study, research or an internship abroad, the Centre for International Experience offers many opportunities that will fit your academic program and interests.

Graduate students from U of T (and visiting graduate students) can find more information about international opportunities through the School of Graduate Studies.

Looking for more ways to explore?

  • What is important to me?: Gain some insight into how self-reflection can help you explore your future career directions. 

  • What’s Next?: Ready to take action? Find resources on networking, resume building, and actionable steps toward your career goals.