Official Site of The State of New Jersey
Every career or occupation should start with some inkling of interest. Many have heard the saying “If you love your job, you'll never work a day in your life”. It is important to have some interest in the field of work you pursue, even if the interest is the pay.
Some individuals struggle with knowing what they specifically want to do, or have an abundance of interest and need assistance narrowing it down. Career assessments are tools that help individuals understand their interests and attributes in order to lead them to career options they will enjoy and be successful in. The following links are a few different career assessment options:
Many occupations require additional experience within the related or surrounding fields of work. This can look like a paid or unpaid internship experience. Internships are great opportunities for individuals to go into the field without the all-inclusive commitment to the occupation. During an internship you have the ability to experience aspects of the field before pursuing it further. There are many strategies to finding internships.
- Network with family, friends and classmates
- Speak with career counselors and college advisors
- Check your college's Career Services office
- Contact businesses and companies where you would like to intern
- Check online resources such as Chegg Internships or Indeed
The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has launched SkillUp New Jersey, a free virtual training program to help jobseekers anywhere in the state upgrade their skills and train for certifications. The NJDOL partnered with Metrix Learning to offer this no-cost opportunity to acquire new skills, enhance existing skills, or prepare for certification training through a web-based learning management system.
Federal Job Corps - Job Corps is a federally funded program in the U.S. that offers education and vocational training to young individuals aged 16 to 24. Administered by the Department of Labor, it aims to enhance employability skills, provide high school education or equivalency, and deliver hands-on job training in various industries. There is a Federal Job Corp as well as a NJ State- Specific program as well. Job Corps provides career programs in fields like healthcare, construction, culinary arts, IT, and automotive repair. Participants receive housing, meals, healthcare, counseling, and transportation assistance. The program focuses on personal and social development, emphasizing leadership, communication, and independent living skills. Job Corps centers are spread across the country, and students typically reside on campus during the program, which can last from a few months to two years. The ultimate objective is to help disadvantaged youth overcome employment barriers, achieve self-sufficiency, and access opportunities they may otherwise struggle to obtain.
