Informational Interview

• Ask real questions, get honest advice, and hear directly from people who’ve been there.
• Learn what it’s really like to work in the industry, explore different career paths, and find out which skills employers actually value.
• Use these conversations to sort through your options, set clearer goals, and make more confident career decisions.
• Plus, you’ll grow your network—which might lead to mentorship, internships, or even job opportunities down the road.

To get started, reach out to a professional, let them know you’d like to learn more about their career, and request a short meeting. Come prepared with thoughtful questions, listen closely, and be open to what you hear. It’s a simple but powerful way to learn, grow, and take charge of your career journey.

1. Can you share a little about your career journey? What led you to this field?
2. Were there any pivotal moments, challenges, or turning points in your career?
3. What were your first internships or jobs like? Where did you complete them? How did they shape your career?
4. How has your career evolved over time, and what have been some of the biggest lessons you've learned along the way?
5. What advice do you have for students looking to break into this field?
6. What skills or experiences helped you the most in your career?
7. Are there any professional organizations, conferences, or networking opportunities you recommend?
8. Are there any common misconceptions students have about this career path?
9. What are some practical steps students can take to build a strong foundation for a career in this field?
10. Are there internships, projects, or experiences you recommend students seek out?
11. If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self when starting out?

Always follow up afterward with a thank-you note. If you learned something especially helpful, let them know. It shows appreciation and helps the connection stick.

It’s a simple but powerful way to learn, grow, and take charge of your career journey.