Career Assessment Resources
01
Naviance
A widely used assessment aligned with Holland’s RIASEC model that helps students identify career interests and match them with potential career paths. Best suited for middle and high school students, it integrates results with college planning tools, making it especially useful for long-term academic and career goal setting.
03
O*NET
A research-based tool grounded in Holland’s theory that helps students explore careers aligned with their interests. Best for middle and high school students, it connects directly to real-world job data, including required skills, education levels, and job outlook.
05
Search Institute
While not a traditional career test, these tools help elementary and middle school students identify their interests (“sparks”) and strengths. They are developmentally appropriate for younger students and provide a foundation for later career exploration.
02
Xello
An engaging, student-friendly career interest inventory that provides personalized career matches based on preferences and strengths. Appropriate for upper elementary through high school, it uses interactive questions and visuals, making it ideal for younger learners beginning career exploration.
04
CareerOneStop
A free, accessible online assessment that helps students identify career clusters based on interests. Appropriate for middle and high school, it’s especially helpful in schools with limited resources because it requires no subscription and is easy to administer.
Career Events
Career events are important from elementary through high school because they help students start exploring who they are and what’s possible for their future. At younger ages, it builds awareness and curiosity about different careers, and as students get older, it helps them connect their interests, strengths, and goals to real-world opportunities. These experiences make learning more meaningful and help students feel more confident and prepared for what comes next.
Timeline
Career Interest Assessment Day
September
This helps students start thinking about who they are - their interests, strengths, and what they enjoy. It gives them a starting point so future career conversations feel more personal and meaningful.
Guest Speaker Series
Start quarterly
Hearing from real people helps students see what different careers actually look like beyond just a title. It makes the future feel more real and shows students what’s possible for them.
Career Exploration Week
October
This gives students a chance to explore a wide range of careers in a fun, engaging way. It helps build curiosity and opens their eyes to options they may have never considered.
Career Day/ Career Fair
November
Career fairs bring a lot of exposure into one space, allowing students to ask questions and make connections. It helps them start linking their interests to real-world opportunities.
College & Technical School Fair
November/December
This helps students understand the different paths available after high school, whether that’s college, trade school, or other options. It makes post-secondary planning feel more accessible and less overwhelming.
College Application & FAFSA Night
December
This supports families through a process that can feel confusing and stressful. It helps ensure students have the guidance they need to take the next step after high school.
Resume & Interview Workshop
January
Students learn practical skills they will actually use when applying for jobs or opportunities. It builds confidence and helps them feel more prepared for real-world experiences.
Job Shadowing Program
February (ongoing)
This gives students hands-on exposure to careers so they can see what a typical day really looks like. It helps them make more informed decisions about their future.
Alumni Career Panel
March/April
Hearing from former students makes future pathways feel more relatable and achievable. It allows current students to see real examples of where hard work and different choices can lead.