1. What has your career path from college to present been like?

2. What is your current job title? What are other commonly used titles for this position?

3. What duties are performed during a typical day? Week? Month? Year?

4. Do you have a set routine? How much variety is there on a day-to-day basis?

5. What are the typical hours/days/shifts? Where is work typically conducted (e.g., office, field, home, on the road)?

6. How would you describe the culture or personality of your organization? Is this typical for the field?

7. What kinds of courses are most valuable in order to gain skills necessary for success in this occupation? (Distinguish between desirable and indispensable courses.)

8. What degree or certificate do employers look for in an entry-level / mid-level / experienced job applicant?

9. What are the most important professional associations affiliated with the field?

10. What kind of work / internship / volunteer experience do employers most look for?

11. Which skills do employers most look for? What types of technology are used, and how are they used?

12. How might I uncover opportunities to gain these experiences and skills?

13. Are any co-curricular activities especially recommended?

14. What steps, besides meeting educational and experiential requirements, are necessary to "break into" this occupation? (i.e., exam? interview? union membership?)

15. What are the important "buzz words" to include in a resume or cover letter when job hunting in the field?

16. What opportunities for advancement exist in the field? Is an advanced degree needed? (If so, in what discipline?)

17. What are the main or most important personal characteristics for success in the field?

18. What other kinds of workers do you frequently interact with?

19. Is there a typical chain of command in this field?

20. What are the entry-level / mid-level / experienced employment prospects for liberal arts graduates in your geographic area? Where are the best employment prospects? Is mobility a necessary factor for success?

21. What is the typical salary range / compensation package for entry-level / mid-level / experienced candidates in this geographic region?

22. What are the employment prospects at your organization?

23. Is this a rapidly growing field? Is it possible to predict future needs for workers in this field?

24. What critical issues have you (or your company) dealt with in the recent past? How might my background be helpful in addressing such issues?

25. What are some of the short-term/long-term trends in your industry?

26. How do you see these trends affecting current job seekers?

27. What are the most satisfying aspects of your work?

28. What are the demands and frustrations that typically accompany this type of work?

29. What are some related occupations?

30. What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were in my shoes?

31. Is there anything else I should have asked you?

32. Can you suggest others I should contact who may be valuable sources of information?