Questions to elicit information
I've used simple probing questions such as: What made you interested in.....? Why do you want to be.....? You requested information because.....? How did you find out about.....? How long have you been interested.....? Are you related or do you know someone who.....?
Melody, These are great questions. A short-term time frame to you might be a long-term goal for someone else. Stepping into their shoes and considering for a moment where they currently are in their life may help guide the conversation.
Dr. Jean Norris
If they respond "I don't know" perhaps you could reduce the time frame a little and help them get there in smaller steps ie "Well then, where would you like to see your career begin when you graduate?" "What kind of job environment do you see yourself in?" "In that type of environment what kind of opportunities for growth might you expect in the coming years."
Isaiah,
Dreaming is great! How would you respond to a student's answer, "I don't know", to this question?
Dr. Jean Norris
"Where do you see yourself in 5 years?" is always a good question. Through my experience I've found that people really enjoy talking about their future self. It gives them an opportunity to dream again. Who doesn't want to dream?
