Has anyone ever asked you why you’re enrolled in your current occupational program? Did you answer with generalities or with specifics?

Know what to expect when you enter the workforce and you’ll have an edge when applying for a job. After all, employers love a well-informed prospect.

Start clearly defining your future occupation by answering these questions:

• What are the job duties for a beginning worker in my occupation?
• What’s the working environment like?
• What is the demand for workers in my occupation?
• How much training will I need to enter this field?
• How can I advance?

You’ll be amazed at how your future comes into focus. For details, work through “Define Future Occupations,” Level 1.4 of SkillsUSA’s Professional Development Program (PDP). There’s more at www.skillsusa.org/pdp.html.

“When you do the common things in life in an uncommon way, you will command the attention of the world.”
— George Washington Carver