Self-assessment: What is it?

Before beginning a search for a job, career or education, many advisors suggest taking a self-assessment test.  

What is this?

A self-assessment test is a series of questions that help you to see where you passion is; what kind of work you enjoy; and what you see as valuable in your life.  With this knowledge, it is easier to weed through the many jobs, career and educational opportunities available. For example: if your self-assessment describes you as an outgoing person who enjoys challenges, then you would avoid positions where your contact with others would be limited.

Where can you take self-assessment tests?

There a various ways to take these types of tests; however, you shouldn't have to pay for them.  Career One Stop has several you can access online for free.  Go to: http://www.careeronestop.org/explorecareers/assessments/self-assessments.aspx 

One important thing to remember! 

Be honest.  These are for your use.  If you lie to yourself, you will not be able to get the best information from the tests.

 

Setting Goals

Before you start to look for a job or think about going to school, it is a good idea to set your goals.  When we have goals, we are better able to be successful.

Use the picture above to think about your goals.  SMART goals are 

• Specific - (I want to get a nursing certificate.  I want to be a car mechanic)
• Measurable - (When I have my license to practice nursing I can find a good job.)
• Action - ( I will apply to school.  I will practice with a master mechanic.)
• Realistic - (I can do this after I develop enough English language skills.  A goal isn't realistic if you can never attain it. For instance, winning the lottery is not a realistic goal.)
• Timeline - ( It will take me 3 years to get my nursing license.)

By using the SMART goal system, you will be better able to meet your goal.  Remember!  Goals are something you work towards.  Some goals can be reached quickly, but other goals will take work and time.  HOWEVER, if you want to get there, you will!

Transition to College and Career

 

Photo Credit: Google Public Domain Images

 

Want to start a career? Have you been thinking about college, but don't know if you are ready, yet?

 

Holyoke Community College has a program, Transition to College and Careers (TCC), which helps students be "ready, confident and successful."

 

TCC is a FREE college prep class for adults.  In the TCC program, you will build your proficiency in math, reading and writing skills as well as study strategies and computer skills.  TCC is a supportive community in which the learning environment enables students to succeed.  Students are supported in identifying career pathways and navigating the college admissions process.

 

Applicants to TCC  must be:

• 18 + years old
• have a GED or HiSET  - OR
• have a high school diploma from at least 4 years ago
• plan to complete a certificate or degree program

The next class will begin in January, so contact  

Mary Martone (413-552-2245  mmartone@cepholyoke.org) or  

Marie Troppe (413-552-2728  mtroppe@hcc.edu) 

now if you are interested in joining TCC.