Small steps now lead to big moves later.
For First-Year Freshmen • First-Year Transfer • First-Year Graduate Students
Get Started
Make Your Career Plan
Build a personalized plan to explore opportunities on campus that support future career decisions and employment applications.
- Select goals with the Career Adventure Checklist (document).
- Set a timeline using the four steps of Future First, Cal State LA’s four-step career development plan.
- Draft your plan with the Career Plan Template (document).
Activate Handshake
Start exploring events, jobs, and connections.
- Create a Handshake Account (external page) using your Cal State LA email.
- Set your career interests to get personalized jobs and events.
(If you're unsure, use What Can I Do with This Major.) - Upload your professional photo.
(Take one at the Career Photo Booth.)
Start Your Professional Brand
Start shaping how you present your skills, interests, and experiences.
- Develop your introduction with the Professional Brand Template (document).
- Introduce yourself to professors and professionals to build your network.
- Build your professional look for events. (Visit the Career Clothing Closet.)
Get Support
Career Guides
Explore more details and resources in the Career Exploration & Planning guide.
Student Appointments
Meet with a career success coach for a 45-minute appointment to explore options and plan next steps.
- Choose Career Exploration & Planning in Navigate LA
- Select Student Life & Wellness to find the Career Center
Follow us on Instagram (external page)
Call: 323.343.3237
Email: [email protected]
Visit: Between the Student Health Center and the University Gym
Hours: M-Th, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and F, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.