Career Research Essay Questions
Write a research essay of about 1400-1800 words on your career and education goals. Your essay should incorporate the following sections:
Introduction to My Passion
What is your career goal? Is this your dream job? How did you develop your interest in or passion for this career? How does it match your personality, talents, and life goals? Use these questions to develop an argument for choosing your career.
Brief Introduction to Online Sources
What online sources have you used to answer your questions about your career goal? Why do you think these sources are reliable? Why are they good for your career exploration?
Discussion of Different Aspects of Your Career
Duties: According to your source(s), what are the main job duties? Which duties do you like, and which do you dislike? Which duties do you think you are capable of fulfilling, and which do you think you need more preparation for? Do you think you will get any job satisfaction? Explain using your previous work-related experience.
Typical Work Day and Environment: According to your source(s), what is a typical work day like, and what is the work environment like? What do you think the job environments pros and cons? Do you think you will realize your potential in this kind of work environment? Do you think it will suit your personality? Explain.
Education and Qualifications: According to your source(s), what education and qualifications are needed? What are your education plans at LaGuardia Community College and at the four-year college you plan to transfer to? What challengesboth personal and academic–will you face as you pursue the required education and/or acquire the required qualifications? Explain.
The Impact of Technology: According to your source(s), how has technology changed or affected your chosen field, and what have been the most recent developments? What will your field be like in the future? How will you prepare for technological advances in your field?
Occupational Outlook: According to your source(s), what is the outlook for your chosen career? In other words, is employment of your career projected to grow or shrink? According to your source(s), do these projections vary from place to place? In what ways, in any, do these projections affect your career and education plans? Explain.
Compensation and Benefits: According to your source(s), what is the current and future salary range, and does it vary from place to place? What does the benefits package consist of? Are you satisfied with this salary range and the benefits? According to your source(s), are there opportunities for career advancement? How will you advance your career? How will the job meet your family and personal needs and goals?
Similar Occupations: According to your source(s), are there occupations similar to your chosen career which you may consider? Do you have a Plan B? Explain.
Conclusion
Based on your research, do you think that your career goal is worth pursuing? How optimistic are you about reaching your goal? Explain.
