This seminar is designed to introduce students to the process by which they can make an informed decision in selecting career options and identifying an educational program which will lead to their career goals. With the assistance of facilitators familiar with assessment instruments, careers and the RIT programs, students begin by assessing their interests, values, skills and personal traits. Students will be introduced to online and print resources used for researching occupational information and may be asked to interview faculty and administrators as well as professionals working in fields in which they are interested. Students will complete a variety of activities including class discussions, journal entries, papers and presentations, allowing them the opportunity to reflect on information gathered throughout the course. Students in the university studies and liberal arts exploration programs are required to complete this course successfully in the first term of their program.

It is never too early to design a meaningful and fulfilling life! This course helps you figure out who you are, who you want to be, and where you want to go. It teaches you to use the Design Thinking process to actively create the life you want based on your interests, strengths, characteristics, and values. Borrowing ideas from Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans, the course also explores your purpose in college, educational wayfinding, innovating RIT experiences, developing an entrepreneurial mindset, and creating your preliminary post-graduation plan. This hands-on class utilizes small group discussions, personal and group reflections, in-class activities, field experiences, and design team collaboration. It could also lead to supportive friendships and mentoring support. The class meets once a week for 75 minutes and may have out of class work up to 1 hour a week.