Career Counseling and Assessments
Whether students enter the University of Tennessee with a declared major or in an undecided status, many will change majors at least once before a degree is granted. With so many possibilities available and a lifetime of work ahead, Career Services encourages all students to invest time in planning to achieve academic and career success.
Career Counseling
You can meet with a Career Counselor to discuss your major and career options. Together you can decide what next steps are best for you. Call us at 974-5435 to make an appointment. We are open Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm.
Career Assessments
The process of choosing a major or career often begins with self-assessment. Consider taking one of the assessments described below to learn more about your Interests, Personality, Skills & Abilities, and Values. After taking one or more assessments, meet with a career counselor to discuss your results and generate ideas for majors and careers to research. Keep in mind that no single test can tell you "what you should be" and that successful career planning may require more than one appointment.
- Strong Interest Inventory
The Strong Interest Inventory (SII) ® is available on the internet and takes about 30 minutes to complete. This 291-item inventory matches your interests with the interests of people who have been in career fields at least three years and are at least satisfied with their work.
You'll spend 30 minutes on the computer taking the inventory and then schedule a follow-up appointment with a qualified career counselor to talk with you about your results.
The Strong Interest Inventory if free for all UT Knoxville students. Alumni and community members may utilize the Strong Interest Inventory if appropriate for a fee ($30 - Alumni, $45 - Community). Please contact a Career Services staff member to discuss if this is the best option for you.
To request the username/password and to make an appointment for the interpretation CALL 974-5435 or email utcareer@utk.edu - Type Focus
This inventory assesses your personality and reports a Myers-Briggs type. Learn how your personality can impact your career choices and interactions with others. Career Services recommends students complete Report A.
The assessment takes 10 minutes and you will receive your results immediately. You are welcome to discuss your results with a career counselor.
To request the site password, CALL 974-5435 or email utcareer@utk.edu - Focus
Co-sponsored with the Student Success Center. FOCUS is an interactive career planning program that helps you analyze your interests, skills and values. Discover and explore occupations, career paths, and majors compatible with your personal attributes.
To request the site keycode, CALL 974-5435 or email utcareer@utk.edu - Values Inventory Worksheet
WORK AND LIFESTYLE VALUES
In addition to considering interests, skills, and personality, students should consider their values when choosing a major or career. Work values are characteristics about jobs and work environments such as salary, amount of independence, required hours, etc.
Lifestyle values characterize what preferences people desire for their futures such as living in a particular geographic locale, maintaining family responsibilities, spending time in recreation, etc. People tend to feel most satisfied when their work satisfies their values. Print and complete the checklist to help prioritize YOUR values. There are no right or wrong answers.
As you research potential majors and careers, consider whether or not they fit your values. You can make an appointment with a career counselor if you would like to discuss your findings.