Experience and Education

Your career path grows from both what you do and what you learn. Experience shows employers how you use your skills in real life. Education builds knowledge and credentials. You can shape your path with either or both, depending on your goals.

Experience

Hands on learning is one of the most powerful ways to grow. Internships, part time jobs, volunteering, research projects, and leadership in student groups all give you skills and stories to share with employers. Even side projects or freelance work can count as valuable experience. You can find volunteer opportunities on Idealist or VolunteerMatch.

Education


Education comes in many forms. College, trade schools, apprenticeships, and online learning all open doors. Each has different costs, timelines, and outcomes, so the best choice depends on your career goals. You can compare programs on College Scorecard. Free or low cost learning is also available through Coursera, edX, or local community colleges.