Sorry, I pushed the wrong key and sent the above post before completing it!
I graduated in the 70's with an engineering degree from a Big Ten university. Back then, a college degree meant something completely different from what a degree means today. The world has changed in too many ways to list, and most of those wys impact an individuals' livelihood. Much good advice has been given here, so I'll throw in what I have told my kids.
First, know yourself. I know many people who thought they were absolutely certain they knew what they wanted to do, only to find out when they entered that particular profession, they hated it. Teachers with education degrees that can't stand being babysitters for brats; nurses who entered the profession only to grow to hate the stress involved. The list goes on and on. Pay the money and have a psychologist or counselor adminster an Interest Inventory test to you. You might be surprised at what you learn about yourself. Be aware that 90% (this is not an exaggeration) of people in their 40's and 50's had any idea at age 20 that they would be doing what they are doing today. It's great to have plans- but hold them loosely.
Secondly, be aware you are entering a radically different workplace than did your parents. Jobs your parents may have thought would last their entire working career simply might not even exist today. You must obtain training with an eye to the future. Look to jobs that cannot be moved overseas, that there will always be a demand for. Teacher, police officer, auto mechanic, auto body, electrician, accountant- you get the picture.
Thirdly, today people skills are hugely important, REGARDLESS of the profession. These are not to be learned in college. Take extra courses that will hone things that pertain to this area. Learn to speak and write well. Read a lot. Learn to use proper grammar. Develope a comfort level speaking publicly- take debate classes or sign up for Toastmasters. Although more accepted than in the past, know that even in today's world, tatoos and body piercings will close doors for you.
If you find an area of work that really interests you, see if you can find a mentor- an older person that would be willing to teach you.
The days of getting a degree, doing college interviews with companies or getting a job by throwing your resume online are coming to a close. It is important for you to know most jobs today are obtained by knowing someone- kind of an "inside job". No pun intended. Lastly, always take an interest in others and what they do. I know of many people who are in the job they are in today because of a chance meeting of an unlikely person in an unlikely place-always have your spiritual "radar" on!
