The staff in the CDC at Samford is proud to present this Online Career Library containing curated links to help you explore career-related topics, Samford undergraduate majors and compatible occupations through reliable websites specifically chosen by our career professionals.
Schools & Colleges
Disclaimers
These websites are presented for informational purposes only. Samford does not endorse the views and opinions that may be expressed on these websites, nor does Samford endorse any commercial products or services. We do not recommend students pay for access to any page on these websites or give personal information. Student membership in professional organizations can be a good idea, but we recommend that students discuss the benefits with their advisors
Career Counseling and Preparation
What is career counseling? How can it help you plan for your career future? How can you best use your time in college to prepare for success after graduation? Visit these selected websites for great advice.
Choosing or Changing Majors
If you are not certain yet what your career future holds but you do know what subjects you like and do well in, then make your short-term major decision based on the subject that you have the deepest and most sustainable interest in and the one that you make strong enough grades in to progress in the degree plan. Then begin to explore the variety of related and possible career options.
If you have decided your career path, then choose the major that is either required or provides the best foundation for career preparation. Sometimes that is a clear-cut decision and sometimes there is room for a little variation. Talk to professionals in the field to get a better understanding of requirements and recommendations. And remember, it is always good to have a Plan B, even if you don’t use it.
Resources
Job Search Strategies
Finding a job takes planning, patience, and persistence.
Step One
Start early. It takes on average 6-9 months of searching to secure a full-time position. Some government jobs have even longer timelines.
Step Two
Craft an effective resume.
Step Three
Identify positions of interest on job posting sites. Start with Handshake (link), where you can search for employers looking for Samford students. Make sure you research the companies to confirm they align with your values and interests.
Step Four
Use your networking to identify “the hidden job market”.
Step Five
Decide your application strategy. Do you want to conduct a “rifle” approach? Target a small number of specific job opportunities. Send in your resume and even if it is not required, include a cover letter. Do you want to conduct a “shotgun” approach? Send in your resume to a wide variety of postings and include your cover letter with select positions of strongest interest.
Step Six
Repeat! For every 20 positions you apply for you may only get one response. Don’t get discouraged. The right job is out there.
More Great Strategies
Professional Etiquette
You’ve started a new job. Congratulations! Now what? Below are some tips for making a good impression and developing your professional and personal brand.
Architecture & Interior Design
O*NET Career Summaries
Professional Websites
Art and Design
O*NET Career Summaries
Professional Websites
Christian Ministry
O*NET Career Summaries
- Activities Director
- Clergy
- Directors, Religious Activities and Education
- Social and Human Services Assistant
Professional Websites
Music
O*NET Career Summaries
Professional Websites
Theatre and Dance
O*NET Career Summaries
Professional Websites
Biblical and Religious Studies
Biological and Environmental Sciences
Chemistry & Biochemistry
Classics and Philosophy
Communication and Media
English
Geography and Sociology
History
Math & Computer Science
Physics
Political Science
Psychology
World Languages and Cultures
Accounting
O*NET Career Summaries
- Accountants and Auditors
- Budget Analysts
- Financial Examiners
- Fraud Examiners, Investigators and Analysts
- Treasurers and Comptrollers
Professional Websites
Economics & Finance
O*NET Career Summaries
- Economists
- Financial Managers
- Financial Quantitative Analysts
- Personal Financial Advisors
- Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents
Professional Websites
Entrepreneurship, Management & Marketing
O*NET Career Summaries
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- General and Operations Managers
- Human Resource Specialist
- Market Research Analysts and Marketing Strategists
- Search Marketing Strategists
Professional Websites
Human Development & Family Science
O*NET Career Summaries
- Child, Family, and School Social Workers
- Marriage and Family Therapists
- Mental Health Counselors
- Preschool Teachers
- Social and Human Service Assistants
- Social and Human Service Managers
Professional Websites
Teacher Education
O*NET Career Summaries
Professional Websites
Communication Science & Disorders
O*NET Career Summaries
Professional Websites
Kinesiology
O*NET Career Summaries
- Exercise Trainers and Fitness Instructors
- Fitness and Wellness Coordinators
- Occupational Therapists
- Physician Assistants
- Physical Therapists
- Sports Medicine Physicians
Professional Websites
Health Administration & Informatics
- 5 Things to Know about Healthcare Administration at Samford
- 5 Things to Know about Health Informatics at Samford
O*NET Career Summaries
- Clinical Data Managers
- Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars
- Medical and Health Services Managers
Professional Websites
Nursing
O*NET Career Summaries
Professional Websites
Prepharmacy
O*NET Career Summaries
Professional Websites
Nutrition & Dietetics
O*NET Career Summaries
Professional Websites
Public Health
O*NET Career Summaries
- Community Health Workers
- Epidemiologists
- Health Education Specialists
- Occupational Health and Safety Specialists