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.
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
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.
This program for business majors offers time and space for you to step back, reflect on who you are becoming, and explore how your business education can serve the common good. Through guided Ignatian Examen practice, small-group discussions, and conversations with professionals, you’ll clarify your strengths and values, reflect on your personal calling, and translate insights into concrete next steps for a fulfilling career and contribution to community.
Review the flier for details and registration information.
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.
Visit Mentoring Matters in Psychology to learn more about events for students in the
field of psychology.
* These events are restricted to Psychology majors only. *
Personal and Reflection-Focused Vocation Opportunities
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
This event is open to all students and meets at noon (location TBA). Representatives from Career Services, the University Honors Program, and the University Writing Services will speak about their services, particularly as they apply to students majoring in political science and similar fields. Email pols-ugc@slu.edu with questions.
Attend the networking social from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 22. Learn more about the Healthcare Networking Social.
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.
More information to come.
Please contact Peggy Dotson if you would like to add an event or activity to this page.