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4 Year Career Development Plan

This page offers tips and recommendations for each year of your journey as a PLU student, organized into three categories: connecting (building professional relationships), reflecting (engaging in self-discovery and clarifying your values), and getting involved (taking meaningful action).

1st Year: Explore

CONNECT

  • Create a LuteLink profile with PLU alumni working in a field you’re interested in
  • Develop relationships with PLU faculty, staff, and peers

REFLECT

  • Complete a values inventory. What matters most to you?
  • Take the Pathway U career assessments. What careers might be a good fit for you?

INVOLVEMENT

  • Join a club or volunteer with an organization that aligns with your interests
  • Learn how to customize your resume and practice interview skills with a career advisor

2nd Year: Prepare

CONNECT

  • Build your professional networks by joining one of PLU’s mentor programs
  • Continue developing and maintaining relationships with faculty, staff, & alumni

REFLECT

  • What makes you unique? How will you tell your story on an application or interview?
  • What difference do you hope to make in your work?

INVOLVEMENT

  • Consider a leadership role in clubs, athletics, or volunteer activities
  • Research internship options, timelines, and submit your application

3rd Year: Experience

CONNECT

  • Attend networking and career events to continue making professional connections
  • Participate in a mentor or job shadow program

REFLECT

  • What are your top strengths? How do you see yourself applying them in the workplace?
  • Think about a mistake or failure. What did you learn from the experience?

INVOLVEMENT

  • Research grad programs and attend info sessions for programs of interest
  • Apply for internships or employment related to your career interests

4th Year: Transition

CONNECT

  • Attend a networking dinner, internship encounter, or career fair
  • Decide who to ask for a reference. Be sure to request letters of recommendation 1-2 months prior to the submission deadline

REFLECT

  • How have you grown personally and professionally as a college student?
  • What are some key takeaways from your college experience?

INVOLVEMENT

  • Schedule informational interviews to learn more about prospective employers
  • Begin applying for jobs 3-6 months before your desired start date

Join LuteLink to connect with alumni who are eager to help you succeed as you navigate college and prepare for your future career. This tool is a great way to help you build your professional network!

MAKE CONNECTIONS IN LUTELINK

PathwayU is a completely FREE career and vocation assessment tool designed to help you discover more about yourself and the career options that would most align with your values and interests.

LEARN ABOUT CAREERS IN PATHWAYU

Use the Opportunities Board to engage with our career services team and find job and internship opportunities on and off campus. Here, you can schedule an appointment with a Career & Internship Advisor!

For any questions, please contact career@plu.edu.