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What is a career statement, and should you write one?

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What is a career statement?

Why are career statements important, how to write a career statement, career statement examples.

Start writing

There’s value in living in the present. Checking off a list of to-dos. But when you take each moment as it comes, never turning your attention to the future, the days — and your career — grow stagnant.

Writing a career statement can help.

We know we’re throwing another assignment on your plate when it’s already full. But writing this statement isn’t time-consuming and will help you progress toward real growth.

And if you haven’t taken the time to write down your professional goals, a career goal statement is a good exercise to tackle before jumping in on your career statement.

This might sound like too much work, but it’s well worth it. Studies have shown people who write down their goals are 76% likely to achieve them versus 43% for those who don’t . Dedicating a little time to writing a goal statement today can go a long way toward bettering your tomorrow.

We’ll make it easier with a template. But first, let’s look at what exactly a career statement is — and why we think it’s a valuable tool for professionals.

Think of your career statement as an aspiration statement tailored to your professional goals. Aspiration statements express what you’re hoping to achieve in the future and describe your vision for the next chapter of your life. 

Think of them as the end of your life plan: your statement should highlight your dreams, encourage your ambitions, and provide an ideal outcome for your action plan. It’s a few sentences or a short paragraph outlining what you want to accomplish in the future.

Sounds simple enough, right? For career statements, you’re focusing those aspirations on your professional goals and intended career path. A career statement demands you to research what you need to accomplish those goals, as it depends on specific information. It needs specific dates, desired job titles or companies, locations, skills required, and more. 

Career statements keep your objectives top of mind. They never let you lose sight of your long-term goals and why you want to achieve them. Thanks to this focus, a career statement helps you visualize your career path, like a roadmap to success.

Writing a career statement can help you tackle three of the resources key to achieving your goals: 

• Motivation: What will make you spring out of bed and continue putting in a consistent effort? Increasing your motivation fuels your need to make your career aspirations a reality.
• Direction: How do you see yourself developing your career ? Do you need to go back to school, move to another city, or network more? Direction gives you a clear understanding of the moves you need to make to achieve your goals.
• Accountability: Goals are great, but who’s holding you to them? Fostering accountability will keep your professional development goals top of mind and help you stay dedicated to them. 

There’s beauty in this journey. Goal-setting can reveal things you didn’t know about yourself, teaching you new skills and helping your well-being along the way. It’s been linked to:

• Higher motivation and ambition to succeed
• Stronger resilience
• Higher self-esteem 
• Greater self-confidence
• More independence and autonomy

Career statements and goal setting go hand in hand. They build off each other to help you turn your dreams into your reality. 

You’re not likely to knock out your career statement in five minutes. It takes time — depending on how clearly defined your career goals are. Don’t rush the process.

If you run into writer's block or can't decide what goals you want to set , take a break. You might find time for a self-discovery journey to help you understand where you’d like your life to go.

Planning out your career doubles as a great self-discovery technique , too: you can ask yourself what you’d like your work-life balance to be, if you want to work remotely, where you want to live, if you want to be a manager, and more.  

When you’re ready to begin, follow these six steps:

1. Think about your passions and purpose

Your passions and purpose guide your life. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted two-thirds of US employees to reflect on their life’s purpose , with 70% of respondents reporting their purpose is tied to their work. Passions and purpose are a great place first place to look to help identify what goals you want to accomplish.

Example: “My passion is storytelling and writing.”

2. Do plenty of research

This step won’t take long if you’re already clear on what you want. But if you have no idea what professional aspirations will enrich your life, dedicate time to research.

Reach out to people in your network for a chat. Expand your knowledge about your industry, learn the requirements for the jobs that interest you, and familiarize yourself with potential roadblocks. Research will give you the knowledge you need for the planning and execution stages.

Example: “I’m interested in writing a fictional novel and working with a local publisher.”

3. Test the waters 

This is a time for curiosity, intentionality, and reflection. Put your research to the test. If you want to change careers, go to a seminar about your target industry. You might be bored to tears, which could indicate you need to modify your plans.

Ask yourself questions along the way — are you staying engaged with the topics you’re learning about? How do your body and mind feel as you turn in this new direction?

Example: “I’ve written a storyboard, and it’s made me feel excited and motivated, so I’d like to continue and take the next step.”

4. Use the SMART goal template

The SMART goals model will help you set realistic goals . SMART stands for specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. This model provides a template that keeps you organized and lets you visualize your goals more clearly.

You should have a pretty good handle on your goals by now. And if you find that your initial goal doesn't work well after listing the different elements, don’t be afraid to make changes — without adaptability, you’ll be setting yourself up for failure. As you grow and move down your career path, your goals might shift. That’s perfectly fine. 

Example: “I plan on pitching a 300-page novel by the end of this month to three different publishers in my community. I’ll pitch my novel to their fiction team and take notes when they provide any feedback.”

5. Solidify your action plan

So you’ve explored the things that matter to you, spent time researching and experimenting, and defined your goals. Now, it's time to make a solid action plan. Take a moment to think about each step you'll take. Do you need to further your education, work on your communication skills, or find a mentor?

Planning ahead has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety and make responsibilities feel less overwhelming . Mapping out your steps will eliminate potential stressors and procrastination. 

Example: “I’m going to create a timeline for myself to write the novel, including the brainstorming, writing, and revising process. This will help keep me on pace and focused on each section as it comes.”

6. Make adjustments when needed

You've put tons of effort into creating an actionable, well-thought-out career statement. But sometimes life throws a curve ball. Challenges arise, obstacles you may have no control over.

Adopt a growth mindset that welcomes learning from your mistakes and changing your plan when necessary. Adapting to change will help you achieve your goals, not hinder them. 

Example: “My pitch hasn’t been picked up by any of the publishers I’ve pitched my story to, so I’m widening my circle to publishers from other communities. I’ve learned from my network to be more specific with my pitches and to explain more about myself.”

Career statements differ depending on your goals, industry, and lifestyle. Your life purpose could be tied to working with nonprofit organizations or climbing the ladder in the tech industry. Whatever your professional aspirations, your career statement should reflect them.

Here are three career statement examples to inspire you:

• I’ll be a full-time writer in two years. I'll start as a freelance writer and build up my portfolio, expand my network, and tune in to workshops and seminars about writing. I'll dedicate 30 minutes each week to reading great pieces of writing, and I'll be ready to do some problem-solving when editors give me feedback. 
• I'm going to be my own boss and open a café next year. I’ll create a welcoming new culture within my café that values kindness, compassion, and respect. I'll further my existing business knowledge by taking marketing classes and talking to people within my industry about the financial costs of entrepreneurship.
• I'll be promoted to sales manager within two years. I'll focus on improving my leadership and communication skills by listening to feedback from my manager. I'll also continue to learn more about sales since it's my big interest and passion and become familiar with my soon-to-be managerial responsibilities.

Start writing 

We’ve outlined the steps and benefits of writing a career statement. Now it’s time to invest in your future and start writing. 

When you’re happy with your career statement, put it somewhere you'll notice each day. If you wrote it up by hand or printed out a copy, stick it on your fridge or bathroom mirror, or hang it above your desk.

If you went digital, set your statement as your phone’s lock screen. Keep it close. It'll remind you of what you're working toward — and what you’ve already achieved by putting your goals and plans into words.

Give your statement another read when you're feeling down or unmotivated. They're yours for the taking.

Invest in your career

Get your promotion. Make your career change. Build the future you dream about. And do it faster with a world-class BetterUp Coach by your side.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

Do goal statements actually work? Find out here

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50 Inspiring Examples of Career Goal Statements

By Status.net Editorial Team on February 7, 2024 — 12 minutes to read

A career goal statement is a clear and concise description of your professional aspirations: it outlines what you aim to achieve in your career path, providing direction and serving as a guide for your professional decisions. Crafting this statement requires self-reflection to identify what truly matters to you in your career.

Think of your career goal statement as a compass. It helps you navigate through opportunities and choices, aligning them with your long-term objectives. A well-defined goal statement includes specific job titles or roles, industry preferences, skills you want to acquire or use, and the values that matter to you in a work environment.

For example, your statement might be, “I aim to become a Senior Software Developer at a tech company that values innovation, in the next five years.” This statement is direct, time-bound, and reflects personal and professional values.

When writing your own career goal statement, start by asking yourself some questions:

• What am I passionate about?
• Where do I see myself in five, ten, or fifteen years?
• What skills do I need to develop to reach my goals?

Your statement can evolve as your career advances and your goals change. Remember, it’s a living document meant to grow along with you. Keep it precise, make it inspiring for yourself, and let it reflect who you are and who you want to become professionally. By doing so, you’ll create a powerful tool to steer your career decisions and help achieve your ambitions.

Components of a Strong Career Goal Statement

A strong career goal statement effectively communicates where you see yourself in the future and how you plan to get there. The keys to crafting this include clarity in your aspirations and how your current path aligns with your long-term objectives.

Clarity and Specificity

Your career goal statement should clearly articulate the position you’re aiming for and the steps you plan to take to achieve it. For example, instead of saying “I want to grow in the tech industry,” specify “My goal is to become a Senior Software Engineer at a renowned tech firm within the next five years by honing my skills in mobile applications development and leadership.”

Alignment with Career Objectives

Ensure that your statement aligns with your broader career objectives. For instance, if you’re determined to enter the field of environmental sustainability, your goal statement could specify, “I will secure a role as a Sustainability Project Manager by gaining expertise in renewable energy solutions and contributing to conservation projects.”

Brevity and Conciseness

Keep your statement concise; it shouldn’t be longer than a short paragraph. A crisp, well-worded statement would look like, “Within three years, I aim to advance to a Lead Graphic Designer position by consistently delivering innovative designs and taking on more strategic projects.”

Personal Motivation

Include a sentence about what drives you towards this goal, which gives a personal touch to your career goal statement. You might say, “I am committed to becoming an industry-recognized financial analyst by developing cutting-edge quantitative models, fueled by my passion for data-driven decision making.”

The Purpose of Career Goal Statements

A career goal statement helps you and others understand where you’re aiming in your professional life. It serves as both a guide and a benchmark for your career progression.

Professional Development

Your career goal statement is a powerful tool for professional development. It’s a declaration of your ambitions, which often falls into specific categories like acquiring new skills, achieving certifications, or reaching a new position. For example, you might aim to become a certified project manager within the next two years, highlighting the steps and skills you’ll need to get there.

Job Search Focus

When you’re on the job hunt, having a career goal statement gives you a lens to evaluate potential job opportunities. Imagine you’re an engineer seeking roles in renewable energy projects; your career goal statement would specify this preference, allowing you to target your job search and tailor your applications to match your aspirations.

Performance Management

During performance evaluations, your career goal statement offers a clear outline of what success looks like for you. It can act as a communication tool between you and your supervisor, ensuring that you’re both aligned on your targets. If your goal is to lead a team, your performance metrics might include leadership training and successful project outcomes.

Personal Reflection and Growth

Your career statement doubles as a checkpoint for personal reflection and growth. By setting specific goals like enhancing your public speaking skills or learning a new programming language, you create a framework for personal progress, tying these improvements back to your broader career objectives.

Writing Your Career Goal Statement

A career goal statement is a clear and concise description of your professional aspirations. It’s important to chart a course for your career by setting strategic goals and outlining the steps you plan to take to achieve them.

Self-Assessment

Start by evaluating your interests, strengths, weaknesses, and values. This step helps you align your career trajectory with your personal attributes and ambitions.

• If you enjoy creative problem-solving, you might aim for a role in strategic development.
• Someone with a natural talent for communication might target a career in public relations.

Research and Exploration

Learn about the industries and positions that align with your interests and skills. Find out what qualifications you may need and what career advancement may look like in those roles.

• Researching the field of data science might show you the importance of skills like programming and data analysis.
• Exploring the healthcare industry could lead you to consider roles ranging from a health administrator to a nurse practitioner.

Articulating Your Goals

Clearly state your short-term and long-term career objectives. Make them specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

• Short-term goal: Completing a professional certification in digital marketing within the next year.
• Long-term goal: Becoming a chief marketing officer at a technology company within the next ten years.

Revising and Refining

Your career goals are not set in stone. Periodically review and adjust them to reflect your growing skills, changes in the industry, and personal life changes.

• Revising your goal to include leadership skills if you’re aiming for management positions.
• Refining your goals to focus more on work-life balance if personal circumstances change.

Examples of Career Goal Statements

When crafting your career goal statement, be specific and align your goals with your desired career path. This section will provide examples for different career stages to guide you.

For Recent Graduates

As a recent graduate, your goal statement should reflect your eagerness to apply your education in a practical setting and grow professionally. For example:

• “My goal is to secure a role as a software developer at a forward-thinking tech company where I can contribute to innovative projects and hone my coding skills in real-world applications.”

For Mid-Career Professionals

For you in mid-career, a statement should focus on advancing your current skills and taking on larger responsibilities. For instance:

• “I aim to elevate my expertise in digital marketing to become a marketing manager, where I can lead strategic campaigns and impact the company’s growth directly.”

For Career Changers

As someone looking to change careers, your statement needs to leverage your transferable skills and express your commitment to the new field. Consider this example:

• “I intend to transition into the field of data analysis, leveraging my extensive background in market research to deliver actionable insights and drive decision-making processes.”

For Executive-Level Positions

Your executive career goal statement needs to showcase your vision for leadership and your ability to steer the company to new heights. An example could be:

• “I am determined to apply my 15 years of managerial experience to a Chief Operations Officer role, focusing on optimizing company-wide operations to boost profitability and efficiency.”

50 Examples of Career Goal Statements

• 1. “To secure a challenging position in a reputable organization to expand my learnings, knowledge, and skills.”
• 2. “Seeking a role at (…) Company where I can contribute to the team’s success while developing my skills as an accountant.”
• 3. “To achieve a lead position in software development that allows me to design innovative solutions and manage a dynamic team.”
• 4. “To become a primary school teacher that inspires young minds and fosters a love of learning.”
• 5. “Aiming to leverage my experience in customer service to become a leading sales representative within the next five years.”
• 6. “To grow into a senior role within the marketing department, contributing to the company’s strategic goals and brand development.”
• 7. “Seeking a position as a clinical practice assistant for a health organization that focuses on the development of innovative medical treatments.”
• 8. “To secure a position as a human resources manager and contribute to an organization’s employee engagement and professional development strategies.”
• 9. “My goal is to become a project manager within a progressive tech company, leading innovative projects to successful completion.”
• 10. “Aspiring to be a top journalist within a major media outlet, reporting on significant global events that shape our world.”
• 11. “To develop a career in finance, eventually becoming a chief financial officer for a well-established corporation.”
• 12. “To obtain a managerial position in the hospitality industry, providing exceptional guest experiences and leading a successful team.”
• 13. “Looking to apply my graphic design skills in a dynamic advertising agency, producing high-quality work for a variety of clients.”
• 14. “To establish myself as a leading real estate agent within the community, known for diligently serving clients and achieving their property dreams.”
• 15. “To become a senior software engineer, specializing in machine learning and artificial intelligence, contributing to cutting-edge technology advancements.”
• 16. “Aspire to join an international non-profit organization, focusing on human rights advocacy and contributing to meaningful change.”
• 17. “To earn a position as a lead researcher in a top-tier biotech firm, focusing on the development of life-saving pharmaceuticals.”
• 18. “To be recognized as an expert in environmental law, working to protect natural resources and promote sustainability.”
• 19. “To secure a role as an art director within a prestigious agency, driving creative strategy and inspiring a team of designers.”
• 20. “Aiming to become a chief operations officer, optimizing organizational processes and enhancing overall efficiency.”
• 21. “To advance my career in the field of education technology, developing innovative tools that facilitate learning and growth.”
• 22. “Seeking to become a master electrician, overseeing complex projects and mentoring apprentices in the trade.”
• 23. “To climb the ranks to a senior data analyst role, transforming data into actionable insights that drive business strategy.”
• 24. “To become a leading figure in digital marketing, known for crafting high-impact strategies that generate measurable results.”
• 25. “Aspiring to be an executive chef in a Michelin-starred restaurant, creating world-class cuisine and leading a top-tier culinary team.”
• 26. “To secure a position as a cybersecurity expert, protecting sensitive information from threats and vulnerabilities.”
• 27. “Aiming to be a respected leader in the field of public health, influencing policy and improving community health outcomes.”
• 28. “To establish a career as a professional musician, performing internationally and sharing my passion for music with diverse audiences.”
• 29. “Seeking a role as an aerospace engineer with a focus on sustainable design and innovation in air travel.”
• 30. “To become a leading architect, known for designing eco-friendly and innovative structures that enhance the urban landscape.”
• 31. “To grow into a senior role in supply chain management, optimizing logistics and contributing to the company’s profitability.”
• 32. “Aspiring to become a senior content creator, producing engaging and informative content that resonates with a wide audience.”
• 33. “To secure a position as a labor and delivery nurse, providing compassionate care and supporting families during a pivotal life event.”
• 34. “To become a principal consultant, offering expert advice and solutions to businesses in my area of expertise.”
• 35. “Aiming to be a top sales manager, driving team performance and exceeding company sales targets consistently.”
• 36. “To secure a leadership position within the field of environmental science, contributing to research and advocacy for climate change mitigation.”
• 37. “To become a recognized expert in user experience design, creating intuitive and user-friendly digital products.”
• 38. “Seeking a role as a professional event planner, executing unforgettable events that exceed client expectations.”
• 39. “To advance to a senior technical writer position, producing clear and concise documentation that supports product development.”
• 40. “Aspiring to be a chief diversity officer, fostering an inclusive workplace culture where all employees can thrive.”
• 41. “To become a lead mechanical engineer in the automotive industry, contributing to the development of innovative and efficient vehicles.”
• 42. “To secure a position as a business analyst, helping organizations to improve processes and systems for better performance.”
• 43. “Aiming to become a senior environmental consultant, providing actionable strategies for sustainable business practices.”
• 44. “To establish myself as a professional photographer, capturing moments and stories through my lens for global publications.”
• 45. “Seeking a role as an investment banker, helping companies to grow and investors to achieve their financial goals.”
• 46. “To become a thought leader in digital transformation, guiding enterprises through the integration of new technologies.”
• 47. “Aspiring to be a senior policy advisor, influencing legislation and policy decisions that impact the public sector.”
• 48. “To secure a position as a professional interpreter, facilitating communication in multiple languages for international organizations.”
• 49. “Aiming to become a leading expert in nutritional science, contributing to healthier lifestyles and dietary choices.”
• 50. “To establish a career as a professional speaker and author, sharing my expertise and inspiring others in my field.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you write an effective career goal statement for your resume.

When you write a career goal statement for your resume, start by reflecting on your strengths, skills, and experiences. Then, identify the kind of position you’re aiming for and how your career path aligns with the goals of the company. Use action words and quantify achievements where possible.

What are some examples of short-term career goals in professional development?

Short-term career goals might include obtaining a professional certification, improving specific job-related skills such as public speaking or technical proficiency, or networking to connect with industry leaders. These goals are typically achievable within a few months to two years.

What should be included in a personal career goal statement?

Your personal career goal statement should include your career interests, the competencies you wish to utilize, the type of environment you thrive in, and how you see your career progressing. It gives employers a glimpse into your aspirations and professional philosophy.

Can you give examples of comprehensive goal statements for students?

An example for a student might be: “Graduate with a degree in Environmental Science and secure an internship with a leading sustainability organization, to contribute to effective climate change solutions.” This states the education aim and the practical, immediate objective after graduation.

How do you frame a career goal statement for entry into graduate school?

A career goal statement for graduate school should express your academic interests, how the program aligns with your career plans, and what you intend to accomplish professionally with the advanced degree. This could be working towards a specific research field or role in academia.

What elements make up a compelling and succinct one-sentence career goal?

A compelling one-sentence career goal is specific, mentioning the desired industry or role, is realistic, and includes a timeframe. For example, “To become a certified project manager within the next year and lead technology-related projects in a Fortune 500 company.”

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Switching Careers? Here’s How to Write a Strong Resume.

• Benjamin Laker,
• Vijay Pereira,
• Abhishek Behl,
• Zaheer Khan

Start with a personal statement.

When you’re switching career paths, there’s one essential thing you need to focus on: updating your resume. Crafting a smart resume is key to showing your potential employer why you wish to make a change. While there’s no one right format to write a resume, here are some tips you can follow:

• Begin the resume with a personal statement. This is a short description about who you are, your reasons for changing your career, your new goals, how your previous experience can be transferred to the new industry, and why you’re perfect for the job.
• Next, instead of highlighting your work experience first, showcase the skills you’ve learned throughout your career. That’s because when changing careers, the hiring managers reviewing your application may not always be familiar with the roles and responsibilities of a different industry.
• Below your skills, you can include a more traditional description of your relevant work history. You don’t need to include every job you’ve ever had, especially if you’ve held a number of positions that don’t highlight any essential skills required for this role.
• Finally, end with a chronological list of your educational qualifications. You can also include details about any certifications or courses that you may be undertaking that may be relevant to the position you’re interested in.

Where your work meets your life. See more from Ascend here .

Switching career paths and trying something completely new can open you up to exciting opportunities, help you learn new things, and even earn you more money. But it’s not always easy — especially if you’re looking to move into an entirely different field. Apart from doing your research and unearthing opportunities, there’s one essential thing you need to focus on before you make the leap: updating your resume.

• Benjamin Laker is a professor of leadership at Henley Business School, University of Reading. Follow him on Twitter .
• Vijay Pereira is a professor of strategic and international human capital management at NEOMA Business School.
• AB Abhishek Behl is an assistant professor of information management at the Management Development Institute Gurgaon.
• ZK Zaheer Khan is a professor in strategy and international business at the University of Aberdeen.  

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• How to Write Your Personal Statement | Strategies & Examples

How to Write Your Personal Statement | Strategies & Examples

Published on February 12, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 3, 2023.

A personal statement is a short essay of around 500–1,000 words, in which you tell a compelling story about who you are, what drives you, and why you’re applying.

To write a successful personal statement for a graduate school application , don’t just summarize your experience; instead, craft a focused narrative in your own voice. Aim to demonstrate three things:

• Your personality: what are your interests, values, and motivations?
• Your talents: what can you bring to the program?
• Your goals: what do you hope the program will do for you?

This article guides you through some winning strategies to build a strong, well-structured personal statement for a master’s or PhD application. You can download the full examples below.

Urban Planning Psychology History

Table of contents

Getting started with your personal statement, the introduction: start with an attention-grabbing opening, the main body: craft your narrative, the conclusion: look ahead, revising, editing, and proofreading your personal statement, frequently asked questions, other interesting articles.

Before you start writing, the first step is to understand exactly what’s expected of you. If the application gives you a question or prompt for your personal statement, the most important thing is to respond to it directly.

For example, you might be asked to focus on the development of your personal identity; challenges you have faced in your life; or your career motivations. This will shape your focus and emphasis—but you still need to find your own unique approach to answering it.

There’s no universal template for a personal statement; it’s your chance to be creative and let your own voice shine through. But there are strategies you can use to build a compelling, well-structured story.

The first paragraph of your personal statement should set the tone and lead smoothly into the story you want to tell.

Strategy 1: Open with a concrete scene

An effective way to catch the reader’s attention is to set up a scene that illustrates something about your character and interests. If you’re stuck, try thinking about:

• A personal experience that changed your perspective
• A story from your family’s history
• A memorable teacher or learning experience
• An unusual or unexpected encounter

To write an effective scene, try to go beyond straightforward description; start with an intriguing sentence that pulls the reader in, and give concrete details to create a convincing atmosphere.

Strategy 2: Open with your motivations

To emphasize your enthusiasm and commitment, you can start by explaining your interest in the subject you want to study or the career path you want to follow.

Just stating that it interests you isn’t enough: first, you need to figure out why you’re interested in this field:

• Is it a longstanding passion or a recent discovery?
• Does it come naturally or have you had to work hard at it?
• How does it fit into the rest of your life?
• What do you think it contributes to society?

Tips for the introduction

• Don’t start on a cliche: avoid phrases like “Ever since I was a child…” or “For as long as I can remember…”
• Do save the introduction for last. If you’re struggling to come up with a strong opening, leave it aside, and note down any interesting ideas that occur to you as you write the rest of the personal statement.

Once you’ve set up the main themes of your personal statement, you’ll delve into more detail about your experiences and motivations.

To structure the body of your personal statement, there are various strategies you can use.

Strategy 1: Describe your development over time

One of the simplest strategies is to give a chronological overview of key experiences that have led you to apply for graduate school.

• What first sparked your interest in the field?
• Which classes, assignments, classmates, internships, or other activities helped you develop your knowledge and skills?
• Where do you want to go next? How does this program fit into your future plans?

Don’t try to include absolutely everything you’ve done—pick out highlights that are relevant to your application. Aim to craft a compelling narrative that shows how you’ve changed and actively developed yourself.

My interest in psychology was first sparked early in my high school career. Though somewhat scientifically inclined, I found that what interested me most was not the equations we learned about in physics and chemistry, but the motivations and perceptions of my fellow students, and the subtle social dynamics that I observed inside and outside the classroom. I wanted to learn how our identities, beliefs, and behaviours are shaped through our interactions with others, so I decided to major in Social Psychology. My undergraduate studies deepened my understanding of, and fascination with, the interplay between an individual mind and its social context.During my studies, I acquired a solid foundation of knowledge about concepts like social influence and group dynamics, but I also took classes on various topics not strictly related to my major. I was particularly interested in how other fields intersect with psychology—the classes I took on media studies, biology, and literature all enhanced my understanding of psychological concepts by providing different lenses through which to look at the issues involved.

Strategy 2: Own your challenges and obstacles

If your path to graduate school hasn’t been easy or straightforward, you can turn this into a strength, and structure your personal statement as a story of overcoming obstacles.

• Is your social, cultural or economic background underrepresented in the field? Show how your experiences will contribute a unique perspective.
• Do you have gaps in your resume or lower-than-ideal grades? Explain the challenges you faced and how you dealt with them.

Don’t focus too heavily on negatives, but use them to highlight your positive qualities. Resilience, resourcefulness and perseverance make you a promising graduate school candidate.

Growing up working class, urban decay becomes depressingly familiar. The sight of a row of abandoned houses does not surprise me, but it continues to bother me. Since high school, I have been determined to pursue a career in urban planning. While people of my background experience the consequences of urban planning decisions first-hand, we are underrepresented in the field itself. Ironically, given my motivation, my economic background has made my studies challenging. I was fortunate enough to be awarded a scholarship for my undergraduate studies, but after graduation I took jobs in unrelated fields to help support my parents. In the three years since, I have not lost my ambition. Now I am keen to resume my studies, and I believe I can bring an invaluable perspective to the table: that of the people most impacted by the decisions of urban planners.

Strategy 3: Demonstrate your knowledge of the field

Especially if you’re applying for a PhD or another research-focused program, it’s a good idea to show your familiarity with the subject and the department. Your personal statement can focus on the area you want to specialize in and reflect on why it matters to you.

• Reflect on the topics or themes that you’ve focused on in your studies. What draws you to them?
• Discuss any academic achievements, influential teachers, or other highlights of your education.
• Talk about the questions you’d like to explore in your research and why you think they’re important.

The personal statement isn’t a research proposal , so don’t go overboard on detail—but it’s a great opportunity to show your enthusiasm for the field and your capacity for original thinking.

In applying for this research program, my intention is to build on the multidisciplinary approach I have taken in my studies so far, combining knowledge from disparate fields of study to better understand psychological concepts and issues. The Media Psychology program stands out to me as the perfect environment for this kind of research, given its researchers’ openness to collaboration across diverse fields. I am impressed by the department’s innovative interdisciplinary projects that focus on the shifting landscape of media and technology, and I hope that my own work can follow a similarly trailblazing approach. More specifically, I want to develop my understanding of the intersection of psychology and media studies, and explore how media psychology theories and methods might be applied to neurodivergent minds. I am interested not only in media psychology but also in psychological disorders, and how the two interact. This is something I touched on during my undergraduate studies and that I’m excited to delve into further.

Strategy 4: Discuss your professional ambitions

Especially if you’re applying for a more professionally-oriented program (such as an MBA), it’s a good idea to focus on concrete goals and how the program will help you achieve them.

• If your career is just getting started, show how your character is suited to the field, and explain how graduate school will help you develop your talents.
• If you have already worked in the profession, show what you’ve achieved so far, and explain how the program will allow you to take the next step.
• If you are planning a career change, explain what has driven this decision and how your existing experience will help you succeed.

Don’t just state the position you want to achieve. You should demonstrate that you’ve put plenty of thought into your career plans and show why you’re well-suited to this profession.

One thing that fascinated me about the field during my undergraduate studies was the sheer number of different elements whose interactions constitute a person’s experience of an urban environment. Any number of factors could transform the scene I described at the beginning: What if there were no bus route? Better community outreach in the neighborhood? Worse law enforcement? More or fewer jobs available in the area? Some of these factors are out of the hands of an urban planner, but without taking them all into consideration, the planner has an incomplete picture of their task. Through further study I hope to develop my understanding of how these disparate elements combine and interact to create the urban environment. I am interested in the social, psychological and political effects our surroundings have on our lives. My studies will allow me to work on projects directly affecting the kinds of working-class urban communities I know well. I believe I can bring my own experiences, as well as my education, to bear upon the problem of improving infrastructure and quality of life in these communities.

Tips for the main body

• Don’t rehash your resume by trying to summarize everything you’ve done so far; the personal statement isn’t about listing your academic or professional experience, but about reflecting, evaluating, and relating it to broader themes.
• Do make your statements into stories: Instead of saying you’re hard-working and self-motivated, write about your internship where you took the initiative to start a new project. Instead of saying you’ve always loved reading, reflect on a novel or poem that changed your perspective.

Your conclusion should bring the focus back to the program and what you hope to get out of it, whether that’s developing practical skills, exploring intellectual questions, or both.

Emphasize the fit with your specific interests, showing why this program would be the best way to achieve your aims.

Strategy 1: What do you want to know?

If you’re applying for a more academic or research-focused program, end on a note of curiosity: what do you hope to learn, and why do you think this is the best place to learn it?

If there are specific classes or faculty members that you’re excited to learn from, this is the place to express your enthusiasm.

Strategy 2: What do you want to do?

If you’re applying for a program that focuses more on professional training, your conclusion can look to your career aspirations: what role do you want to play in society, and why is this program the best choice to help you get there?

Tips for the conclusion

• Don’t summarize what you’ve already said. You have limited space in a personal statement, so use it wisely!
• Do think bigger than yourself: try to express how your individual aspirations relate to your local community, your academic field, or society more broadly. It’s not just about what you’ll get out of graduate school, but about what you’ll be able to give back.

You’ll be expected to do a lot of writing in graduate school, so make a good first impression: leave yourself plenty of time to revise and polish the text.

Your style doesn’t have to be as formal as other kinds of academic writing, but it should be clear, direct and coherent. Make sure that each paragraph flows smoothly from the last, using topic sentences and transitions to create clear connections between each part.

Don’t be afraid to rewrite and restructure as much as necessary. Since you have a lot of freedom in the structure of a personal statement, you can experiment and move information around to see what works best.

Finally, it’s essential to carefully proofread your personal statement and fix any language errors. Before you submit your application, consider investing in professional personal statement editing . For $150, you have the peace of mind that your personal statement is grammatically correct, strong in term of your arguments, and free of awkward mistakes.

A statement of purpose is usually more formal, focusing on your academic or professional goals. It shouldn’t include anything that isn’t directly relevant to the application.

A personal statement can often be more creative. It might tell a story that isn’t directly related to the application, but that shows something about your personality, values, and motivations.

However, both types of document have the same overall goal: to demonstrate your potential as a graduate student and s how why you’re a great match for the program.

The typical length of a personal statement for graduate school applications is between 500 and 1,000 words.

Different programs have different requirements, so always check if there’s a minimum or maximum length and stick to the guidelines. If there is no recommended word count, aim for no more than 1-2 pages.

If you’re applying to multiple graduate school programs, you should tailor your personal statement to each application.

Some applications provide a prompt or question. In this case, you might have to write a new personal statement from scratch: the most important task is to respond to what you have been asked.

If there’s no prompt or guidelines, you can re-use the same idea for your personal statement – but change the details wherever relevant, making sure to emphasize why you’re applying to this specific program.

If the application also includes other essays, such as a statement of purpose , you might have to revise your personal statement to avoid repeating the same information.

If you want to know more about college essays , academic writing , and AI tools , make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.

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How to write a personal statement if you’re changing fields

Your personal statement must answer the crucial question of any graduate school application: Why are you a perfect fit for a program? To demonstrate that fit, many students craft an academic arc that traces their undergraduate experiences to their current application. But what if your path is more jagged? After switching from an undergraduate major in History to graduate degrees in Science and Technology Studies and now Art History, I know it’s possible to craft a compelling academic narrative, even if you’re changing fields.

To make the most of the thousand-word personal statement, keep these ideas in mind:

Tip 1: emphasize the continuities.

Think back to your previous research experiences or jobs. Is there a salient connection to your intended field of study? When I wrote applications to Art History graduate programs, I mentioned an undergraduate paper that touched on visual culture and aesthetics, two central concerns of my new field. 

If you can’t think of something this direct, try to draw a connection between the methodologies or themes between the two disciplines; maybe both areas of studies emphasize ethnographic research or quantitative reasoning. You want to show that you have engaged with the research of your new field, even before you started officially studying it.

Tip 2: Embrace the Pivot

If you spent four years dedicating your studies to a certain subject, why do you want to switch? Finding a compelling answer to this question is key. Perhaps you had a life experience that underscored the importance of your new field, or you are drawn to the specific methodology a discipline uses to answer a social question you’re passionate about. A sharp explanation about your switch should go near the top of your statement.

This is also a good place to make your essay stand out: how might a different background improve your application? If you’re applying to an Economics program as a Math major, for example, you could highlight how your training will help you adapt to new trends in mathematical economics.

Tip 3: Practice Humility

At the end of your statement, it’s ok to reference that your path was not linear. In fact, academic flexibility can translate into an asset: completing research over an extended period of time often means adapting to multiple twists and turns. As a young scholar, it’s your job to embrace this iterative process with a willingness to learn. Your statement should convey an open curiosity with the your new field and the research of faculty members in your chosen department. 

Alex earned her BA in History from Brown University, and her MA in Science and Technology Studies from Oxford University, where she was a Baker Scholar. Currently, she is a Master's student at NYU's Institute of Fine Arts.

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career development

7 Meaningful Answers to "What are Your Career Aspirations?" in an Interview

Learn the best approaches to answer interview questions about your career aspirations. We provide example answers and explain what makes them meaningful.

Together Team

Published on 

August 9, 2023

Updated on 

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“What are your career aspirations?”

This has to be one of the most commonly asked questions in interviews besides the standard questions about the candidate’s professional background, skills, and experience.

"Career aspirations" refer to an individual's long-term professional goals and ambitions, encompassing the desired achievements and personal growth they seek throughout their journey.

Interviewers inquire about your professional aspirations to gain insights into your long-term motivations, passion, and alignment with the company's vision, helping them assess if your goals and the organization's objectives are in sync. 

The key to providing meaningful answers is to be genuine and demonstrate a clear connection between your career aspirations and the value you can bring to the organization. Tailor your responses to the specific job and company, and let your passion for personal and professional growth shine through.

7 examples of answers about career aspirations

When asked about your career aspirations, a meaningful answer that goes beyond personal growth will help you differentiate yourself from other interviewees. Here are seven meaningful answers that can make a lasting impression on interviewers:

1. Pursuing continuous learning and skill development 

Example: "My career aspirations are centered around constant growth and skill enhancement. I am committed to staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in the industry. In the coming year, I plan to pursue specialized certifications and attend industry conferences to learn from experts . By continuously improving my skills, I aim to bring innovative strategies to the table and contribute to the company's success in reaching new audiences."

While the above example is a generalized statement on continuous learning , you can improve it by naming specific skills and certifications that you mean to acquire.

2. Making a positive impact on society and the environment

Example: "Beyond personal career goals, I am passionate about creating a positive impact on society and the environment through my work. I aspire to work for a company with a strong commitment to sustainability. I envision aligning my career with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and actively participating in corporate social responsibility initiatives. I find immense fulfillment in contributing to a greener and more sustainable future, and I believe that my dedication to these causes will resonate with the organization's values and mission."

The above answer will help you showcase your interest in contributing to a larger purpose by making a difference in the world. Make it your own by discussing any volunteer work you are involved in to emphasize your commitment to meaningful impact.

3. Becoming a thought leader and influencer in the industry

Example: "My ultimate career aspiration is to become a thought leader and influencer in my field. I plan to publish research papers, contribute to open-source projects, and participate in conferences to share my knowledge. Additionally, I aspire to become an active member of industry forums and engage in public speaking opportunities to promote advancements in the industry. By becoming a recognized authority, I can position the company as a leader in our space."

Turn the above example into a highly specific answer by mentioning your area of expertise and your topic of research. Give examples of other thought leaders in your industry and how they helped establish their organizations as leaders in their space.

4. Embracing leadership opportunities

Example: "As a seasoned manager, my career aspiration is to take on more significant leadership roles and contribute to the growth of the organization's talent. I envision leading cross-functional teams, fostering a collaborative work culture, and mentoring emerging managers . A company can grow and succeed faster when the more experienced members of the team empower and guide others."

Communicate your interest in taking on leadership roles and guiding others to success. Make the above example your own by discussing your leadership style and how you plan to inspire and motivate team members.

5. Driving innovation and advancement within the company 

Example: "Innovation drives me, and I am passionate about leveraging technology to push the boundaries of what's possible. My career aspiration is to lead the research and development team, where I can spearhead new product ideas and create groundbreaking solutions. I envision fostering an innovation-focused culture within the organization, where employees are encouraged to experiment and think outside the box. By introducing disruptive products to the market, we can elevate the company's position and stay ahead of the competition."

To be more specific with the answer, talk about your ideas for improving processes or developing new products or services for the company.

6. Cultivating a diverse and inclusive work environment 

Example: "My biggest career aspiration revolves around creating an inclusive and diverse work environment. I envision implementing diversity training programs, establishing mentorship opportunities for underrepresented groups, and ensuring that all employees feel valued and respected. By fostering a workplace that celebrates differences, we can boost employee morale, creativity, and ultimately contribute to the company's overall success."

In your answer, discuss strategies for promoting inclusivity and building a diverse team. Emphasize the positive impact of diversity on organizational performance and innovation.

7. Becoming a mentor and guiding others to success

Example: "One of my most significant career aspirations is to take on a mentorship role within the organization. Throughout my career journey, I have benefited greatly from the guidance and support of mentors who have helped me develop both professionally and personally. I aspire to pay it forward by becoming a mentor to junior colleagues and assisting them in their career growth. By sharing my knowledge, experiences, and lessons learned, I hope to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential and contribute to a more dynamic and skilled workforce within the company."

Mentorship can have a profound impact on individual development and team cohesion. By showcasing your willingness to mentor and uplift others, you demonstrate not only a commitment to your own growth but also a dedication to fostering a supportive and collaborative work culture within the organization.

How to answer questions on career aspirations during an interview

When answering the question about career aspirations, demonstrate your alignment with the company's values and showcase your enthusiasm for personal and organizational growth. To ace this critical aspect of the interview, consider the following tips:

Read about the company’s vision and mission, and the job role

When asked about your career aspirations, connect your goals with the company's mission. Search the company's website and annual reports to understand their core values and long-term objectives. Read the job description carefully, because it will also have details about how the role you are interviewing for contributes to the overall picture. 

You will be able to give better answers if you know what the company stands for and how you will potentially fit in and add value. For instance, instead of saying, "I want to improve my leadership skills," say, "I aspire to become a leader who can drive the organization towards achieving its mission of sustainable environmental practices."

Speak with a “We” mindset

Avoid phrases that focus solely on personal gain. Most employers look for a team-oriented and collaborative mindset in their employees. By focusing on how you can contribute to the collective success of the organization and its goals, you will show the interviewers that you are a team player.

Instead of saying, "I want to be making $150,000 in two years," say that "I aim to contribute to the success of the team by utilizing my skills to achieve higher growth."

Be specific and realistic about your goals

Instead of providing vague statements like, "I want to be successful," be specific about your aspirations, such as "I aspire to take on a managerial role within the next three years, leading cross-functional teams and driving innovative projects."

Being specific and realistic about your goals during an interview shows that you have a clear understanding of your career path and have thoughtfully considered your aspirations. It also indicates that you are pragmatic and grounded, making you a more credible candidate who can set achievable targets and work diligently towards them, increasing your chances of being seen as a reliable and valuable asset to the organization.

Show enthusiasm and passion for your career path

Demonstrate your excitement for your chosen career path by saying, "I am genuinely passionate about (let’s say) marketing, and I look forward to creating impactful campaigns that can connect with customers on a deeper level and drive brand loyalty."

Employers value candidates who are enthusiastic about their work as they are more likely to be motivated, proactive, and willing to go the extra mile to excel in their role.

Common pitfalls to avoid when answering questions about career aspirations

By effectively communicating your career aspirations during an interview, you can leave a lasting impression on potential employers. However, candidates should steer clear of the following two common pitfalls:

1. Using cliches and vague responses

Using cliches and providing vague responses can make your answer sound insincere and lacking in authenticity. Vague statements like "I want to make a difference" or "I want to be successful" don't provide meaningful insights into your actual goals and may come across as generic.

Instead of saying, "I want to be a leader who inspires others," be more specific by saying, "My career aspiration is to become a compassionate and influential team leader, empowering my team members to achieve their goals and foster a collaborative work environment."

2. Being too modest or self-deprecating

While it's essential to strike a balance between confidence and humility, being overly modest or self-deprecating may undermine your credibility and hinder your chances of making a strong impression. It's crucial to showcase your strengths and aspirations with conviction without sounding arrogant.

Instead of downplaying your accomplishments with statements like, "I was just lucky to receive that award," own your achievements and say, "I am proud of the hard work and dedication that led to receiving the award, and it motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my career."

Strike the right balance between authentic and impressive 

When answering questions about your career aspirations, honesty in your responses is essential, as it reflects your genuine motivations and long-term goals.

Strike a balance between authenticity and alignment, and let your enthusiasm for your career path shine through. By articulating your aspirations with clarity and conviction, you present yourself as a proactive and dedicated candidate, poised to make a significant impact within the organization. Your ability to combine honesty and alignment is the key to leaving a strong impression and increasing your chances of securing the opportunity that aligns perfectly with your career aspirations.

Want to grow in your career and achieve your career aspirations? Learn from those who have walked the path before you. Find mentors that will teach you how to navigate the ups and downs of your career and make the right moves to achieve your goals.

Dive deeper into the topic in our mentees guide

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Top 20 Career Goal Statement Examples you can Use

This post provides lots of career goal statement examples that you can learn from in making one for your resume/CV and increasing its chances of being read by the recruiter/employer.

To make a great resume that gets you an interview with an employer/recruiter, it is important to learn about various resume statistics before writing your resume. According to novoresume, these resume statistics will give you helpful insight into the prevailing HR trends, guide you in making the right decision about your job hunting, and in creating an effective resume.

What is a Career Goal?

A career goal is a clearly documented statement of purpose that specifies what you intend to achieve in your career path, the strategy for actualizing it, and the timeframe within which it should be realized.

They help to keep you focused, giving you a sense of direction, and helps you press on during hard times on your career path.

A clear and specific career goal can help you evaluate your current job and give you clarity on the smart decision to take to be realigned with your goals.

It forces that you make objective decisions by answering tough questions like the ones stated below:

• What is my vision for my career in another 10 years?
• What more can I do to realize the vision?
• What tasks or projects on my current employment lead to the realization of the vision?
• Which areas should I improve on?
• What new skills do I need to learn acquire to get there?
• What projects make me feel most fulfilled?
• What tasks or projects make you feel most exhausted?

How to Write a Great Career Goal Statement

A career goal statement may be used by employees seeking professional growth in the workplace.

To write down an effective career goal statement, there are some steps you need to take:

First, you should take the time to reflect on what you really want or care about.

Your goals should be based on the things you desire to have and are willing to work toward, and not the things you feel or think you should have.

Secondly, you should state your goals in clear and specific terms of what you intend to accomplish, not using general or ambiguous statements.

You should also establish the yardstick for measuring success, so that you can know when you are on the right path or deviating.

Thirdly, set goals that are achievable following steps 1, 2, and 3.

The goals must also be relevant to you; it has to be on something that persistently interests you.

Also, the goals you set must have a timeframe within which you plan to achieve it.

After establishing what it is you want to achieve, you must also spell out the steps you need to take to reach the goals.

Otherwise, a career goal that does not answer the how will be ultimately abandoned.

Lastly, you must also give room for change; the purpose of the career goal is to give you a long term line of action to reach a guide you, but if personal factors, economic, societal, or technological factor dictates that there should be a bend, then you need to be willing to extend your deadline or re-chart your course.

Top 20 Examples of Career Goal Statements to Guide you in Creating Yours

• To become a Lead Graphic Designer in ABC Company in the next 3 years. To achieve this, I will undertake a Bachelor’s degree in Digital Design and develop proficient skills in Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign and Acrobat. I will also improve in my organization skills and imbibe a problem-solving attitude.
• To become a Cloud Security Engineer in ABC Company in the next 5 years. To achieve this, I will work with the engineering team to gain experience in architecting solutions within Amazon Web Services (AWS), Azure, and GCP, as well as improve on my interpersonal, communication, and technical writing skills.
• To become an Application Support Analyst that improves performance of an organization’s trading architecture. To achieve this, to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and gain expertise in Unix/Linux system administration, including troubleshooting techniques and scripting languages from internship and volunteer work.
• To advance from a sales representative position to a Sales Manager position in the next 7 years. To achieve this I will establish a track record of exceeding sales targets, undertake an MBA, and develop strong leadership, communication, interpersonal, and team work skills.
• To become a Clinical Research Manager in ABC in the next 8 years. to achieve this, I will pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, improve on my scientific writing and communication skills, develop proficiency in MS Office applications and spend at least 4 years in the clinical research position.
• To switch from clerk to Administrative Assistant position in Blackstone in 3 years. To achieve this, I will develop strong communication and organizational skills, pay attention to details, improve on my team work and prioritization skills, learn to utilize Concur for coordinating travel arrangements, and develop advanced skills in Microsoft Office applications.

More Career Goal Statement Examples [7-11]

• To become an Associate Principle Scientist in the next 4 years. To achieve this, I will work for at least 4 years in the pharmaceutical research role, gain advanced and thorough scientific knowledge in pharmacology and disease mechanisms, and improve on my multi-tasking communication and interpersonal skills.
• To become an IT Specialist for The Army University in the next 3 years. To achieve this, I will gain at least one year of specialized experience installing, configuring, and/or testing software on customer workstations through a graduate internship job, get a Master’s degree in Information Systems, and improve on my customer service and oral communication skills.
• To become an HR Coordinator in ABC in the next 7 years. To achieve this, I will become a certified HR practitioner, remain on the HR Operations role for at least 4 years, and get comprehensive knowledge of HRIS Systems and reporting capabilities, employment, and benefit laws.
• To become an Engineering Technician in the next 5 years. To achieve this, I will work for 3 years in a manufacturing company, get an Associate’s Degree in Engineering, develop advanced skills in Microsoft Office Applications – Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook, Visio, etc. I will also develop strong analytical and problem solving skills, and demonstrate leadership when working on individual or group projects.
• To become a Senior Salesforce Administrator in ABC in the next 7 years. To achieve this, I will get an MBA, develop proficient skills in Salesforce, and become a Salesforce Certified Advanced Administrator. I will also develop strong communication and technical writing skills and proficient skills in Microsoft Office applications.

More Career Goal Statement Examples [12-16]

• To become a professional Receptionist within the next twelve months. To achieve this I will project a professional image by being alert and approachable, learn to use industry specific software, standard office equipment, improve on communication, and work on my tone of voice and body language to provide excellent customer service.
• To switch from an Admin Officer to a Sales Executive in the next 3 years. To achieve this, I will undertake post graduate studies in Sales Management and complete certification course in digital marketing.
• To become Marketing Consultant in the next 10 years that help companies get and double customers regardless of their current problem. To achieve this, I will start my career in a sales representative position and progress through the ranks, honing my communication, presentation, and selling skills, as well as developing expertise in marketing communications.
• To become a passionate Social Worker who will provide early Intervention services to infants, toddlers, and families in the next 4 years. To achieve this, I will get a Master’s in Social Works, maintain a current licensure, and gain at least 2 years of work experience in a pediatric unit.
• To become Senior Project Manager in Panasonic USA in the next 7 years. To achieve this, I will refine my project management skills, become Certified Scrum Master (CSM), gain understanding of software development lifecycle best practices, and develop expertise in project management tools, including MS Project, Smartsheets, and MS Office.

More Career Goal Statement Examples [17-20]

• To become the Consumer Insight expert in the next 7 years. To achieve this, I will pursue an MBA, gain experience in a market research firm, Master software applications, including Excel, SPSS/JMP, and SQL/HQL, and develop exceptional communication skills, and refine my project management skills.
• To become the Go-to Interpreter in the US Army in 5 years. To achieve this, I will develop a polished communication style, expert level language skills in at least 4 of the major global languages, and improve on my listening skills.
• To become a Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist in Cleveland Clinic in the next five years. To achieve this, I will become certified as a medical terminologist, meet the High Complexity Testing Personnel qualifications, and improve on my critical thinking, decisive judgment, and ability to work without supervision.
• Looking to become a highly skilled and creative photo editor in the next 2 years. To achieve this, I will gain know-how in Electronic News Production System (ENPS), Master Control systems and Satellite Feed Operations, and improve on my communication skills.

Career goals are futuristic and help you to aspire for more than what you already have.

Taking the effort to write down career goal helps you to plan for growth in your chosen profession.

It helps you to see beyond your daily to-do list, and focus on the bigger picture which you may lose sight of in your everyday life.

When crafting your career goals statement, we suggest that you set goals that exceed the minimum required standard for success on that career path.

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Guide to job search strategies in 2025

The job market can be highly competitive, but if you're applying for a new job in 2025, there are various ways to set yourself apart. With the right strategy, you can also align your career goals, find suitable roles for your skillset, and improve your chances of success. You'll also find that the job search process is more manageable with sufficient planning and research.

Whether you're a graduate, unemployed, or looking for something new, you can use the following job search tips and techniques to help you land your dream role.

1. Create a Job Search Plan

The best job search strategy is to create a plan before you start looking and applying for jobs. Having a plan from the start can make the job search process less intimidating and help you stay organized.

Your plan can detail the steps you want to take to find your dream job and serve as your guide throughout the process. You may want to include the companies you wish to contact, how many applications you want to complete, and a realistic timeline for the whole process.

Research from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that  the average time of unemployment  in 2024 is 20 weeks, which is roughly four and a half months. While your process may be shorter or longer, keep this timeframe in mind while creating your plan and setting goals.

2. Outline Your Goals

One of the most beneficial things you can do at the start of the job process is set goals. Having your requirements and wishes written out will remind you of them every step of the way. This can help with decision-making and refocus your attention on what matters to you.

Here are some ideas for things you can include in career-focused goals:

• Your ideal job position.
• The companies you want to work for.
• A salary range you'd be happy with.
• Benefits that are important to you.
• Your work location wishes.

3. Research the Industry

Industry research is an integral part of job hunting. Gathering as much data and insights as possible helps inform your search strategies and could improve your chances of finding a job. Look for notable companies in your chosen industry and start compiling a list. If you already have some companies in mind, gather more information about them. You'll want to know what their workplace culture is like and read reviews from past employees. This will give you an idea of whether you want to apply to work there.

If you're new to the industry, you may also want to do some additional research about it. Read articles and watch videos to get a basic idea of any trends or news you should know before going for interviews. You might also uncover information to highlight in your applications. For example, if companies are looking for a particular skill set, you can showcase that in your resume. This research shows potential employers that you're knowledgeable and serious about the position.

4. Discover 2025 Employment Trends

Take your research further by examining current employment and job market trends. Knowing key trends is especially beneficial if you're still making career decisions or are looking to switch careers. For example, you can find out what jobs are in high demand. Applying for careers with positive outlooks and expected growth could make finding a job easier. Some  in-demand positions in 2025  include software developers, data scientists, registered nurses, actuaries, and health services managers. This demand aligns with the  growth of digital jobs  that employees can perform remotely.

Understanding workplace shifts and trends can help you prepare for your new job, too. While digital jobs are on the rise, some companies are also looking to  return to office work . Opportunities for remote work may decline in the coming years. In response, you may find jobs  offering more benefits and flexibility  to make up for office requirements.

5. Diversify Your Search

In 2025, you should use multiple job search methods to boost your chances of success. This means looking for open positions in various ways and applying for more positions.

Here are a few options you can explore to expand your search:

• Online job boards:  One of the easiest ways to look for jobs is through online listings on job boards. You can search for industries, companies, and job titles and apply for any positions you feel you're suited for. Aim to apply for multiple listings per day and set job alerts so you know when something new pops up.
• Social media:  Social media platforms can also help with job searching. Companies sometimes post about their open positions on their profiles, so you can follow them to be the first to know. You might also see people in your network post about job openings at their company.
• Networking:  Networking is vital for job seekers, as connecting with professionals in your desired industry can open unexpected doors. To get started with networking, you can attend job fairs and conferences, use social platforms, or join professional communities. Focus on developing relationships with new people, but remember to contact your existing network, too.
• Recruitment agencies:  Many companies enlist recruiters to help them find job candidates. You can contact a local recruitment agency as part of your job search. They'll work with you to match your skills to open roles.
• Company websites:  Some companies post about vacancies on their own websites. If you have specific companies in mind, check their websites to see if they have a hiring page. You can also reach out via their website to enquire about a job and send your resume.
• Referrals:  If you know anyone who works at a company you're interested in, you could ask them for a referral. Some companies look at referrals from current employees more quickly than other applicants. With their recommendation, you might have a higher chance of getting a job offer.

6. Build a Personal Brand

Part of the job search process is convincing companies that you are valuable and a good fit for their culture. An effective job strategy to make this task easier is to create your own personal brand. In general, a brand is an identity—something that distinguishes a business or product from its competitors. Your personal brand works similarly in that it's your unique identity that can set you apart from other job candidates.

To create a strong, clear personal brand, you can use social media and create a personal website. Improve your career-related social profiles by adding a professional headshot, cover image, and description. All three elements should highlight your personality, strengths, values, and experience. Incorporate relevant keywords to optimize your profile for search, making it easier for recruiters to find you. You can go a step further by creating and publishing content related to your industry. This will establish yourself as a thought leader and show potential hirers your expertise.

7. Learn New Skills

Learning new skills is an effective job search strategy. Upskilling yourself and staying up to date with current skill requirements will make you an asset to any company and help you stay competitive in the job market. It may also help you overcome any challenges you may face in a new position.

To learn new skills, you can take a course, try new software, watch videos online, attend a workshop or conference, and shadow a professional. There is plenty of free information online that you can use to boost your resume and hopefully land your dream job. It's also beneficial to continue to learn new things in the future to increase your skillset and stay ahead of trends.

8. Expand Your Search

Sometimes, one of the best strategies for finding a job is to keep an open mind. If you are only looking for a few specific positions, you may miss out on others that may be a good fit for you. Companies sometimes also list the same job under different names than you expect. Look out for jobs with your skills and take note of the position name to broaden your search.

If there aren't any open positions for the job you want, consider trying another related job in the meantime. You can also try a freelance or part-time position or something completely different from what you're used to. You never know who you might meet or what you'll discover about yourself. Plus, you can add the experience to your resume, which could boost your chances of getting your dream job in the future.

9. Tailor Your Resume

Once you've found some jobs to apply for, it's time to get your resume in order. Your resume should look tidy and professional, list all your relevant credentials, and be easy to read. However, you can increase your chances of success by customizing your resume for each position. This effective job application strategy highlights your interest in the position and sets you apart from other applicants. 

Start by reading the company's website and job listings. You want to look for any particular points they mention regarding desired skills, values, and experience. Emphasize any relevant skills and accomplishments in your cover letter and resume based on the information you find. You can also take note of the important ones to bring up in an interview.

10. Highlight Your Soft Skills

Soft skills are becoming  increasingly important in the workplace . In 2025, you may even see some companies prioritize them over technical skills. They include communication, conflict management, problem-solving, flexibility, leadership, and more.

Soft skills help you work well with others and build strong relationships. These are desirable traits for companies as they help employees communicate with clients and colleagues, overcome challenges, and avoid conflict. When writing your resume and cover letter, make sure to emphasize your strong soft skills.

11. Practice for Interviews

Once you've submitted a few applications, you may start to get requests for an interview. This is an exciting next step, and you can make it easier for yourself by preparing in advance. Many interviewers ask similar questions in the first interview, so research these online and come up with potential answers. For example, they may ask you about your strengths and weaknesses or ask you to describe a time you had to solve a problem or conflict.

You can then compile a list of questions for a practice interview. Ask a friend or family member to interview you, or set up a camera and record yourself. Practice answering the questions in random order to ensure you're adequately prepared. You can also ask for feedback or watch the recording to see where you can improve. This process can help you feel more confident on the day and reduce pre-interview nerves.

12. Follow Up

One last job search tip is to follow up throughout the hiring process. Once you've had your first interview, it's a good idea to send an email to thank them for their time. If you don't hear back after a couple of weeks following your application submission, you can send an email restating your interest and requesting an update. Following up emphasizes your passion for the role and shows the hiring manager your motivation and diligence.

Keep your head up if you don't hear back about your submission or receive a rejection. It's all part of the job search process. With patience and persistence, you'll find a job that's right for you.

Start a Career at Intuitive

If you're looking for a fulfilling and challenging career path, apply for a position at Intuitive. We prove what's possible with medical technology every day through passion, innovation, and inspiration. Our team is  unified by a shared mission  to improve minimally invasive care and help doctors save lives.

We're seeking talented individuals to fill our open positions, including administration, engineering, customer experience, accounting, human resources, sales, and marketing. We value our people and offer benefits that reflect our commitment to your well-being and development. With us, you'll receive flexible vacation time, health insurance, 401k programs, mental health support, tuition reimbursement, and many more benefits.

Browse and apply to  one of our open roles  to get started. You can also  join our Talent Community , where we'll keep you updated on new job openings and company news.

Linked Sources:

• https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.t12.htm
• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/fastest-growing.htm
• https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-rise-of-global-digital-jobs/
• https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2024/02/12/the-rise-of-the-office-heres-what-it-means-for-your-career/
• https://hbr.org/2024/01/9-trends-that-will-shape-work-in-2024-and-beyond
• https://www.forbes.com/advisor/in/business/soft-skills-examples/
• https://careers.intuitive.com/en/who-we-are/
• https://careers.intuitive.com/en/career-opportunities/
• https://crm.findemtalent.com/community/signup/63f62f1f0a4d56196a290e4e

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The new Individual Assistance updates only apply to disasters declared on or after March 22, 2024. Read about the updates.

FEMA Urges Public to Stay on Alert, Stands Ready to Support Tropical Storm Beryl

WASHINGTON -- As the first major hurricane of the season sets the tone for heightened storm activity in the coming months, FEMA pre-positioned personnel on the ground in Texas to support state-led response efforts while Tropical Storm Beryl continues its path along the Texas coast and further inland.  

Prior to the hurricane’s landfall, FEMA staged commodities and critical supplies, including 500,000 meals and 800,000 liters of water, that are ready to distribute at the state’s request. FEMA also has 60 generators on-site to provide power to critical infrastructure, if needed. To ensure communication capabilities on the ground, FEMA has two Mobile Emergency Response Support vehicles prepared to support.  

People in the storm’s path are still encouraged to remain vigilant and listen to their local officials, as the storm continues to move inland. 

Federal and State Response Efforts

FEMA has over 60 staff embedded with the state who stand ready to support response operations as needed. 

The U.S. Coast Guard is on standby with boats and aircraft to assist search and rescue activities as well as reconstitute ports as it becomes safe to do so. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has an Emergency Power Planning and Response Team on the ground to assist with any temporary emergency power needs to critical public facilities. 

The State of Texas currently has more than 2,000 responders and 850 assets rostered and deployed in support of the state’s response to anticipated impacts from the storm. The state continues to take action to provide all available resources to help support local communities in need. For more information, visit:  Hurricane Beryl (texas.gov) .   

Non-profit Partner Support

The Salvation Army has mobilized an Emergency Disaster Services team focused on providing feeding, emotional and spiritual care and has 35,000 meals ready for storm survivors. In addition, the American Red Cross has deployed hundreds of trained disaster workers and truckloads of relief supplies, along with numerous emergency response vehicles, to impacted areas. Team Rubicon’s domestic teams have more than 16,000 local volunteers standing by. 

Stay Safe After Tropical Storm Beryl

Residents and visitors affected by the storm should be aware of continued risks and should not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. 

Residents should continue to closely monitor the path of the storm and follow instructions from local officials.

• Stay off the roads.  Emergency workers may be assisting people in flooded areas or cleaning up debris. People can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.  
• Don’t drive through flood waters.  Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When driving, look out for flooding in low lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause people to lose control of their vehicle. 
• Do not walk or wade in flood waters. The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. It may also include dangerous wildlife. For flooded basements, people should never attempt to turn off power or operate circuit breakers while standing in water. Wear gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris alone.  
• Avoid downed power or utility lines. Consider all downed lines live with deadly voltage. Stay away and report them immediately to the power or utility company. 

As power outages continue to affect the area, FEMA urges residents and business owners to follow these tips to stay safe: 

• Use generators safely. Generators can be helpful when the power goes out. It is important to know how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Only use them outdoors and away from windows. 
• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. A refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours and a full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. 
• Disconnect appliances and electronics.  Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment or electronics. Power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage.

For additional information on staying safe during and after disasters, visit  Ready.gov or  Listo.gov  in Spanish language.

By Quinn Eastman  July 16, 2024

Braelyn McClain (left) and Keylyn Bonilla-Fuentes participated in the NextGen High School Internship program. They produced a podcast with Yvonne Trejo Balderas (not shown).

— Emily Allen

How do you capture a month of intense, hands-on science in a few minutes?

Give that task to one of the students in the NextGen High School Internship program , and they might stage a wacky game show with famous scientists, hosted by Steve Harvey. Or they might convene a podcast, just three young women sitting in bed chatting about irregular menstrual periods. During a straightforward presentation about polycystic kidney disease, students might start singing, bringing an entire lecture hall to chime in with Elsa of “Frozen.”

These were three example presentations from a symposium on July 9, when high school students who spent five weeks together learning genetics and biology with Emily Allen, Emory assistant professor of human genetics, let loose their creativity.

“It’s really amazing what we can do, given the opportunity,” said Dagmawi Fasika, a junior at Wheeler Magnet School in Marietta.

Fasika was referring to what he had been doing in the laboratory — eagerly dissecting mice and learning how to grow miniature brain organoids in culture — but his remark applied equally to the symposium itself, which highlighted students’ skill with modern media tools. The students poked fun at the classes they just sat through, but also showed respect for the material they learned.

“Every year the students amaze me with their enthusiasm for all aspects of the STEM field, and this year is no exception,” Allen says. “I can’t wait to see all the amazing things they accomplish in the future. I look forward to continuing to work with them throughout the fall as they tackle their college applications.”

In the NextGen program, 27 high school students from the Atlanta area spend five weeks of their summer learning science in the classroom, shadowing Emory researchers and genetic counselors, taking field trips and getting career and college admissions advice. The aim of the program, organized by the Department of Human Genetics , is to diversify biomedical career paths such as medicine and genetic research by giving students a chance to explore these fields up close.

This is the program’s third summer and its largest, in terms of the number of students who participated. The program was reorganized slightly, so all students got a chance to cycle through laboratory experience modules. This way, everyone was able to prepare brightly colored mouse skeletons or try out genetic analysis techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

“I never had the chance before to be involved in this kind of research,” said Fasika, who said he had developed a “weird obsession” with dissecting mice.

“Close your eyes if you need to,” said Tianye Zhang during her presentation, which included a detailed explanation of how to handle mice and stain their tissues.

Fasika said the day he was able to learn from experienced developmental biologists in the Caspary lab (part of the Department of Human Genetics) was thrilling, but he chose to give his symposium presentation on organoids. A module in Jimena Andersen’s lab, which is using organoids to study the motor neuron disease ALS, introduced him to the topic.

Fasika explored some of the ethical issues posed by this advanced technology, which has many potential applications, ranging from probing embryonic development to toxicology, drug discovery, regenerative medicine and gene therapy. Could scientists grow complete organs? Is it possible to grow a conscious brain or an entire person from scratch? To transplant a brain from one body to another?

Fasika evoked Mary Shelley’s vision of Frankenstein’s monster: “We’re creating something that has never been done before.”

However, the actual process is “kind of like growing a plant,” Fasika said. “It takes a long time. For the people in the lab who are growing organoids, it’s like a child to them.”

During the program, interns heard from several speakers who shared details about their own career paths, ranging from roles in the laboratory or hospital to a patent lawyer or medical science liaison. Students were able to have lunch with Eric Green, director of the National Human Genome Research Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health, and Sandra Wong, dean of the Emory School of Medicine.

Many of the past interns are now attending Emory, Georgia Tech and universities such as Howard, MIT, Duke, Caltech, Yale and Brandeis.

For 2024, the NextGen program was supported by the Avantor Foundation, the Warren Alpert Foundation, the Schneider Foundation, the Arnold & Mabel Beckman Foundation and Otogenetics, a genomics services company located in Doraville. The program includes an internship stipend of $2,600 as well as weekday lunches and transportation. 

Additional information about the NextGen Internship Program and application process is available on the Department of Human Genetics website.

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JD Vance charted a Trump-centric, populist path in Senate as he fought GOP establishment

Republican vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, arrives on the floor during the first day of the 2024 Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum, Monday, July 15, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Republican vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, and his wife Usha Chilukuri Vance arrive on the floor during the first day of the 2024 Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum, Monday, July 15, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

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WASHINGTON (AP) — When Ohio Sen. JD Vance traveled to the Munich Security Conference earlier this year, he wasn’t there to reassure Europe and other global allies that America would aid Ukraine in its war against Russia, as all of the other senators were.

Instead, Vance was there to deliver what he called a “wake-up call.”

In a fiery speech , the freshman senator said that just because Russian President Vladimir Putin is a “bad guy” doesn’t mean that America’s own interests shouldn’t come first.

“There are a lot of bad guys all over the world, and I’m much more interested in some of the problems in East Asia right now than I am in Europe,” Vance said, arguing that the U.S. doesn’t have the money or the manufacturing capacity to help Ukraine enough to win the war.

Now elevated into the national spotlight as former President Donald Trump’s running mate, Vance’s short Senate career reflects the forces transforming the Republican Party. In just a year and a half, he has carved out a unique role fighting traditional Republican establishment figures, including Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, particularly on foreign policy and aid to Ukraine. The 39-year old has been unafraid to challenge his fellow senators, many of them decades older, espousing a populist vision and defending Trump when many of his Republican colleagues stayed quiet.

“He was not afraid to go and speak his opinion to people who didn’t necessarily agree with him,” said Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, a senior Republican in the Senate, of Vance’s Munich trip. Barrasso, who who has grown close to Vance and advised him when he first came to Washington, said it was a “sign of boldness.”

Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, a Republican who has long opposed aid for foreign conflicts, celebrated Vance’s selection. “It’s great to have an opponent of endless wars and more aid to Ukraine on the ticket,” he wrote on X.

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Vance, who served in Iraq as a Marine and is the author of the memoir “ Hillbilly Elegy ,” was once a caustic critic of Trump, but became a fierce ally during his 2022 Senate race, landing Trump’s crucial endorsement in the final weeks of a crowded GOP primary.

He then entered the Senate as one of Trump’s most vocal supporters, endorsing him in a January 2023 op-ed when many of his colleagues thought the former president’s political future was over. Vance argued that a series of foreign conflicts had failed to serve America’s interests, and “very few were ever challenged by a leader of national significance. That is, of course, until Donald Trump came along.”

Vance’s views on America’s role in the world put him in conflict with McConnell, despite significant financial help from the McConnell-backed Senate Leadership Fund in the final months of Vance’s campaign. As McConnell pushed for the last aid package to Ukraine, approved in April , Vance was its loudest Senate opponent.

“Why are we so obsessed with this? It is a fetish, Steve. I can’t pretend to understand it,” Vance said on Steve Bannon’s podcast in February.

Vance’s outspoken views on Ukraine prompted concerns across that region on Tuesday. “If this couple (Trump and Vance) wins, it will not be easy for us. It will not be easy for Europe. It will not be easy for the US,” posted Ukraine analyst Yurii Bohdanov on his Telegram channel.

At a press conference in Kyiv, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that while most of the Democratic Party supports Ukraine, there are varying positions among Republicans, some of whom are “more right-wing and radical.”

“If Mr. Donald Trump becomes president, then we will work with him” Zelenskyy said. “I am not afraid of it.”

Concerns about what Vance’s ascension might mean for U.S. foreign policy extend beyond Ukraine.

European diplomats were loath to comment Tuesday on Vance, citing a desire not to be seen as interfering in American politics. But two U.S. officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss private diplomatic conversations said they had gotten queries from counterparts in Europe asking how the Biden administration’s commitment to the continent’s security might be preserved if Trump were elected.

Vance has also defended Trump’s actions after the 2020 election, when the former president pressured states and Congress to try and overturn President Joe Biden’s legitimate victory. Vance denies that Trump tried to overturn the election and said he is “truly skeptical” that former Vice President Mike Pence’s life was in danger on Jan. 6, 2021, when Trump’s supporters violently besieged the Capitol as Congress certified Biden’s victory. Some were chanting “hang Mike Pence” because Pence wouldn’t go along with Trump’s efforts.

Biden campaign chairwoman Jen O’Malley Dillon said that Trump picked Vance “because Vance will do what Mike Pence wouldn’t on January 6: bend over backwards to enable Trump and his extreme MAGA agenda, even if it means breaking the law.”

Vance’s quick rise to popularity in Trump’s inner circle was hardly assured, especially after he’d been critical of then-candidate Trump in 2016.

Donors didn’t initially want to talk to Vance as he ran for Senate, said a Republican familiar with the situation and granted anonymity to discuss it. Then wealthy entrepreneur Peter Thiel, a tech donor some see as a mentor to Vance, swooped in with millions for the primary race before the Senate Leadership Fund helped Vance in the general election.

As Vance turned himself into the “soul of MAGA” in the Senate, as the Republican called him, a key turning point for both Trump and Vance was a trip to East Palestine, Ohio, in early 2023 after a train full of toxic chemicals derailed there. As Biden initially stayed away, some Republicans credited the visit with boosting Trump’s own flagging campaign.

Vance later allied with Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown, his Ohio colleague, to introduce legislation that would force railroads to follow new safety rules. The bill has since stalled , opposed by other Republicans, including McConnell, who think it is too favorable to unions and oppose new regulations on industry.

Like the railroad bill, Vance has teamed with Democrats on other issues that reflect his more populist vision. He worked with Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., on legislation that would claw back compensation for bank executives in the event of a bank failure, for example, and he was a critic of Boeing after a safety incident on one of their planes earlier this year.

“JD can really speak to this whole group of Democrats who have been left out, left behind by their party,” Barrasso said.

Still, Vance is largely untested on the national stage. And while his views may help the Trump ticket among white working-class voters in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin, he could potentially turn off others in the swing states of Arizona, Nevada and Georgia.

Republican colleagues say his youth and conviction will ultimately win out.

Alabama Sen. Katie Britt, who was also elected in 2022, says Vance has distinguished himself in the GOP conference because he “is unafraid to enter any room.” And as a fellow parent of younger children, “we come at it with a different perspective and a different energy,” she said.

“He has a lot of self confidence,” says Texas Sen. John Cornyn, whom Vance once worked for as a law clerk on the Senate Judiciary Committee. “JD really represents the next generation of leaders — he’s obviously only 39 years old but I think he’s prepared for the job.”

Associated Press writers Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv, Ukraine and Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report.

9 July 2024

Smith+nephew is trailblazing a new path for female surgeons with its orthopaedics for all initiative; a first-of-its-kind global advisory board.

Smith+Nephew (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN), the global medical technology company announces its Orthopaedics for All initiative – a global advisory board established to amplify diversity by building equity, breaking biases, and inspiring inclusion for individuals wishing to pursue a career in orthopaedic surgery.

The disparity of women in the field of orthopaedic surgery compared to men is staggering. According to multiple studies, only 15% of all orthopaedic residents were women and just 7.4% were practicing orthopaedic surgeons in the United States during 2022. Several factors may contribute to this inequity including greater vulnerability to work-family conflict, less supportive references than their male counterparts, and less national research funding compared to men. Smith+Nephew aims to address these long-standing challenges headfirst and help set new standards in patient centric care. 

Board member Dr. Jessica Hooper, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Stanford Health Care commented, “Orthopaedics for All, to me, means giving everybody a voice in our field and direction on where we’re going in the future.”

The Smith+Nephew Orthopaedics for All global advisory board is comprised of approximately twenty leading female key opinion leaders and surgeons in the adult hip and knee orthopaedic reconstruction segment and includes representatives from all over the world. Board members must have a minimum of two years post-fellowship experience in reconstructive surgery, a mix of both academic and private practice experience, and an interest in gender diversity and inclusion initiatives. Orthopaedics for All will also drive awareness in the greater orthopaedic surgeon community around the technical skills and competence female orthopaedic surgeons possess.

Smith+Nephew’s Chief Human Resource Officer Elga Lohler commented, “There is meaningful data that supports the case for increased diversity within medicine and more broadly the medical device industry. Diversifying our work force is not just critical to improving employee engagement and retention, which directly impacts business growth and profitability, but diversity in medicine can also help reduce health care disparity and improve patient outcomes. Our Orthopaedics for All global advisory board has been established to truly understand the needs of a more diverse customer group, so that we can build sustainable strategies that address rapidly evolving customer needs.”

Board member Ms. Chloe Scott, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Edinburgh Orthopaedic Specialists, UK explained, “I’m really excited to be a part of Orthopaedics for All. I think Smith+Nephew has gone a step further than the other companies in terms of actually being proactive to improve engagement with women in arthroplasty, which is really refreshing to see.”

Smith+Nephew recently partnered with the Perry Initiative who hosted forty female high school students at Wake Forest School of Medicine to explore hands-on surgery modules and receive mentorship from women surgeons and engineers. The Perry Initiative inspires young women to be leaders in orthopaedic surgery and engineering by partnering with medical centers, universities and high schools across the US.

“The Smith+Nephew Orthopaedics for All advisory board gives women in arthroplasty a voice and a wonderful chance to contribute to the field of arthroplasty, much like the Perry Initiative gives opportunities to individuals interested in engineering and orthopaedics,” commented Antonia F. Chen, MD, Chief of Arthroplasty and Joint Reconstruction, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School.

To learn more about Smith+Nephew and our purpose of ‘Life Unlimited’, please visit www.smith-nephew.com .

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Dave Snyder          +1 (978) 749-1440 

Smith+Nephew      [email protected]

About Smith+Nephew

Smith+Nephew is a portfolio medical technology business focused on the repair, regeneration and replacement of soft and hard tissue. We exist to restore people’s bodies and their self-belief by using technology to take the limits off living. We call this purpose ‘Life Unlimited’. Our 18,000 employees deliver this mission every day, making a difference to patients’ lives through the excellence of our product portfolio, and the invention and application of new technologies across our three global business units of Orthopaedics, Sports Medicine & ENT and Advanced Wound Management.

Founded in Hull, UK, in 1856, we now operate in more than 100 countries, and generated annual sales of $5.5 billion in 2023. Smith+Nephew is a constituent of the FTSE100 (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN). The terms ‘Group’ and ‘Smith+Nephew’ are used to refer to Smith & Nephew plc and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context requires otherwise.

For more information about Smith+Nephew, please visit www.smith-nephew.com  and follow us on X , LinkedIn , Instagram or Facebook .

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The Secret Service is investigating how the man who shot Trump got as close as he did

The Associated Press

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while former President Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday. Gene J. Puskar/AP hide caption

The U.S. Secret Service is investigating how a gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure former President Donald Trump at a rally Saturday in Pennsylvania, a monumental failure of one the agency's core duties.

The gunman, who was killed by Secret Service personnel, fired multiple shots at the stage from an "elevated position outside of the rally venue," the agency said.

An Associated Press analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos taken at the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking. A video posted to social media and geolocated by the AP shows the body of a man wearing gray camouflage lying motionless on the roof of a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds, where Trump's rally was held.

The roof was less than 150 meters (yards) from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target. For reference, 150 meters is a distance at which U.S. Army recruits must hit a scaled human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M16 assault rifle in basic training. The AR-15, like the shooter at the Trump rally had, is the semi-automatic civilian version of the military M16.

Trump is fine after an assassination attempt at his rally

The FBI early Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa.

The Secret Service didn't have anybody at a late-night news conference where FBI and Pennsylvania State Police officials briefed reporters on the shooting investigation. FBI Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek said it was "surprising" that the gunman was able to fire at the stage before he was killed.

Members of the Secret Service's counter sniper team and counter assault team were at the rally, according to two law enforcement officials. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to discuss details of the investigation.

The heavily-armed counter assault team, whose Secret Service code name is "Hawkeye," is responsible for eliminating threats so that other agents can shield and take away the person they are protecting. The counter sniper team, known by the code name "Hercules," uses long-range binoculars and is equipped with sniper rifles to deal with long-range threats.

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas said his department and the Secret Service are working with law enforcement to investigate the shooting. Maintaining the security of presidential candidates and their campaign events is one of the department's "most vital priorities," he said.

"We condemn this violence in the strongest possible terms and commend the Secret Service for their swift action today," Mayorkas said. "We are engaged with President Biden, former President Trump and their campaigns, and are taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security."

The Picture Show

Photos: see how the trump rally shooting unfolded.

Calls for an investigation came from all sides.

James Comer, a Kentucky Republican who is the House Oversight Committee chairman, said he contacted the Service Service for a briefing and called on Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing. Comer said his committee will send a formal invitation soon.

"Political violence in all forms is unamerican and unacceptable. There are many questions and Americans demand answers," Comer said in a statement.

U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres, a New York Democrat, called for investigating "security failures" at the rally.

"The federal government must constantly learn from security failures in order to avoid repeating them, especially when those failures have implications for the nation," Torres said.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, posted on X that he and his staff are in contact with security planning coordinators ahead of the Republican National Convention set to begin Monday in Milwaukee. "We cannot be a country that accepts political violence of any kind — that is not who we are as Americans," Evers said.

The FBI said it will lead the investigation into the shooting, working with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

Attorney General Merrick Garland said the Justice Department "will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation."

"My heart is with the former President, those injured, and the family of the spectator killed in this horrific attack," Garland said in a statement. "We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy."

• Donald J. Trump