Learn how to manage your own career. The Winthrop University Career Cycle (adapted from the award-winning UBalt Career Cycle) is a tool you can use repeatedly throughout your lifetime. No matter where you are in your career—just starting out or switching gears—this cycle can help you get where you want to go.
Each phase of the cycle has a set of outcomes related to your career success. After learning about each phase, you'll be prepared to take an action step.
Explore different career paths and identify your interests and skills.
Where do you want to go?
It pays to learn more about yourself – your knowledge, skills, abilities, accomplishments, and the values that drive you. When you know your strengths and what brings you joy, you can create your own route towards personal fulfillment.
As you discover your direction, you will:
When you’re done, you will be ready to define your professional goal.
Gain practical experience through internships, volunteer work, and networking.
Where do you belong?
Exploring the world of work means searching for our “sweet spot.” You’ll discover and confirm that your professional goal is a good fit. In this phase, you’re encouraged to learn about trends in your field, problems you want to solve, and challenges you will face.
As you explore the world of work, you will:
When you’re done, you’ll be ready to create your professional pitch.
Develop your professional image and build your network.
How do you stand out?
Your brand differentiates you from everyone else. It reveals what makes you unique and well-suited to the goal you have chosen.
As you communicate your brand, you will:
When you’re done, you’ll be ready to design your action plan.
Identify and pursue career opportunities that align with your goals.
Are you ready to make things happen?
Opportunities don’t always knock on the door. Make sure you have a strategic plan to stay focused on your professional goal.
As you create your opportunities, you will:
When you’re done, you’ll be ready to develop a career management plan.
Continue to build your skills and experience through various avenues.
You may travel around the WU Career Cycle multiple times as you gain knowledge, experience and insight.
Career planning is a continuous process. Rather than simply prepping you for a job, the Center for Career Development and Internships can prepare you to become an expert career manager. You'll learn how to use the WU Career Cycle as a framework for growing professionally, and you'll also learn how to stay:
