Align career goals with aspirations and needs.

The good news is Americans are living longer, eating healthier and exercising more. The bad news: This means you probably will work longer than your parents. The Pew Research Center Links to an external site. reports nearly 30 percent of Americans view their jobs as something “just to get by.”

Given the extended span of your career, it makes sense to be part of the 70 percent who find fulfillment in their jobs. That means knowing the lifestyle you want, your values, your interests, and the strengths and skills you bring to an employer. Matching salary and benefit expectations to appropriate professions will guide you to identify majors that prepare you for your ideal career.

Will you land your perfect job? Maybe. Keep in mind that dreams tend to evolve. But, given the direct effect career planning has on your financial life, now is the time to start exploring.

 

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