Step 3. Find the Right Fit.

Colleges offer many different types of degree programs because students have so many different interests and skills. So…how do you find the college that’s the right fit for you?

To get started, imagine what career you’d like in the future and then do some research. Learn the college degree you’ll need, and then which colleges offer that program.

Think about career choices

What do you like to do? Do you enjoy outdoor activities? Do you like to draw? What topics interest you – history, writing, computers?

What are your talents? Do you excel in math or English? Are you a good artist? Are you good at fixing or building things?

Your answers will direct you to high school courses and clubs that will help you develop your strengths and lead you to a future career.

Follow these steps to learn more about career options:

  1. Determine types of careers that best fit your interests by printing and completing this Career Cluster Interest Survey. “Career clusters” are groups of similar occupations and industries.
     
  2. Learn about skills you’ll need for each career cluster by reviewing this Career Cluster Diagram. You’ll also learn about courses and activities you should pursue.
     
  3. Visit www.bls.gov/k12/. This Bureau of Labor Statistics website is another resource that will help you match your interests with potential careers.
     
  4. Think about your future lifestyle.  Use the Reality Check program to discover how much it will cost to maintain your desired future lifestyle and the types of careers that will cover your expenses.

Research colleges that fit your career interests

Nebraska has nearly 60 four-year colleges, community colleges and trade schools that offer a wide variety of degrees. It’s important to find out which of those schools offer programs in the career areas that interest you – and how much education is required to fulfill your career goal.

Follow these steps to find the college that may be the right fit for you:

1.  Learn about the types of colleges and their degrees.

  • Universities and Colleges (four-year) offer bachelor degrees in a variety of majors. Many also offer advanced degrees such as masters and doctorates.

Examples of potential careers include: Accountant, Computer Systems Analyst, Dietitian, Engineer, Graphic Designer, Insurance Agent, Investment Banker, Journalist and Teacher.

  • Community Colleges (two-year) offer certificates, diplomas and associate degrees in a variety of programs. Courses taken in an Academic Transfer Program will transfer to most four-year colleges.

Examples of potential careers include: Automotive Technician, Aviation Mechanic, Dental Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician, Heating and Air Conditioning Technician, and Licensed Practical Nurse.

  • Private Career Schools (trade schools) – specialize in fields or trades such as technology, business or cosmetology. Most award diplomas or certificates that are completed in a short amount of time.

Examples of potential careers include: Administrative Assistant, Computer Systems Technician, Cosmetologist, Court Reporter, Massage Therapist, Medical Assistant, and Veterinary Technician.

2. Research and visit colleges that interest you.

  • Visit college websites and take a virtual tour.
     
  • Attend activities at area colleges. These might include sporting events, athletic or band camps. This will help you understand the size and “feel” of the colleges.
     
  • Participate in group campus visits organized by your school. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn about programs offered by area colleges.
  • If you’re traveling with your family, ask to stop at some colleges along the way. This will make you aware of colleges you may want to consider that are farther from home.
  • When you’re a high school sophomore or junior, start scheduling formal campus visits. Contact the admissions offices at colleges that interest you to set up the visits. 
  • Attend a College Fair in your area. See Upcoming Events for dates and locations.

For details about colleges in Nebraska and across the country, see College Profiles. 

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