Skip to main content

Vocation Exploration

Vocation - More than Just a Job

Academic advisors at Saint Louis University help students design their degree program, which includes a student's major as well as possible minors or a second major. This conversation is often based on a student's career goals. But as a Jesuit institution, SLU encourages its students to think beyond jobs or careers and to also reflect on their vocation.

In this context, vocation refers to who you are called to be more than just what you are called to do. It refers to all aspects of your life like your family, friends, and community, as well as your pursuit of justice for others and the way you interact with the earth. And the process of understanding it requires an internal journey rather than an external search – it is not something you find but something that is already in you, something that is revealed to you.

When applying this concept to choosing a major or career, Fr. Michael Himes, of Boston College, poses three important questions for reflection: What gives you joy — what do you love to do?  What are you good at — the unique God-given gifts and talents that you possess? And does anyone need you to do it — is this work something that society needs? We encourage you to spend some time with these questions as you also ponder your career and major options.

A student speaks with a presenter at a booth during an academic fair. There is a poster that reads "Didactic Program in Dietetics"

Students discuss majors, minors, and special programs with faculty during the academic fair.

Discovering the things that bring you joy, that utilize your talents, and work that the world needs you to do is a process that takes time, experience, conversations, and personal reflection. Take advantage of the opportunities listed below to help you learn more about yourself so you can begin to better understand your vocation.

Academic-Focused Vocation Opportunities

Academic Fair  - Majors, minors, and more! (Oct. 30, 2025)

Oct. 30, 2025, in the Busch Student Center Ballrooms - Drop in anytime between 11:30 and 2:30 p.m.

Connect with faculty and staff to learn about and discuss ways to choose and/or enhance your current degree program(s). These conversations might include a new major, second majors, minors, study abroad, pre-law, pre-health, competitive fellowships and scholarships, internships, department-sponsored activities, graduate programs, and certificates. 

Vocation of Business Retreat (Nov. 8, 2025)

Retreat for business majors to explore calling as it relates to their major.

Mentoring Matters in Psychology

Visit Mentoring Matters in Psychology to learn more about events for students in the field of psychology.  

Mentoring Math Minds

Mentoring Math Minds supports both graduate and undergraduate students, reflecting the organizers’ shared commitment to mentoring in mathematics and fostering students’ academic and professional development.

Personal and Reflection-Focused Vocation Opportunities

Service Opportunities
Serving others is a great way to learn more about yourself!  The Center for Social Action can help you find an opportunity that works for you.
Self in Contemplation Experiences
Cura Personalis 2 is required for every undergraduate at SLU. But check out this great list of options to engage with others and reflect on the experiences, even if you have already satisfied the requirement!  
Reflection-in-Action experiences

Explore these options that encourage you to interact with others in different ways. Check out your options, even if you have completed this requirement for your degree. 

Study Abroad 

Spending time abroad is a great way to learn more about the things that are important to you. Learn more about all the study abroad options available to SLU students

Focus 2 - Am I Career Ready?

Go to the "Am I Career Ready" module after you create your Focus 2 account. Find instructions on the Career Services page.

Career-Focused Vocation Opportunities

Accounting Meet the Firms Night (Sept. 4, 2025)

Attend this event to learn about career paths in accounting and network with employer reps. From 4 to 7 p.m., Sept. 4, 2025. Learn more about Meet the Firms Night.

Chaifetz School of Business Career Fair (Sept. 10, 2025)

This event is a career event for students interested in all areas of business on Sept. 10, 2025. Learn more about the Chaifetz School of Business Career Fair.

Fall Career Expo (Sept. 17, 2025)

Attend the Fall 2025 Career Expo from noon to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept 17. All students, including freshmen, are encouraged to attend and learn more about career opportunities. Learn more about the Fall Career Expo.

Healthcare Networking Social (Sept. 22, 2025) 

Attend the networking social from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 22. Learn more about the Healthcare Networking Social.

Fall Virtual Networking and Career Fair (Oct. 29, 2025)

Connect with employers recruiting for full-time, professional and internship positions. Hosted through Handshake from noon-3 p.m., on Oct. 29 . Learn more about the Virtual Networking and Career Fair.