Published: Sept. 25, 2018

Every student at CU Boulder has the opportunity to discover and develop their strengths through the CliftonStrengths assessment. Most new students took this assessment over the summer, and you might even have your strengths proudly displayed on your door in your residence hall. ÌýSo, now that you know your strengths, what do you do next? Here are a few ways to learn more about your strengths and how to apply them throughout your college journey.

Don’t make your career plan alone

College to Career Pathway

  • Career Services is the place on campus to develop and strengthen your skills and define your unique career path.
  • The College to Career Pathway is an easy, step-by-step guide to accomplishing your goals so you’re ready for life after CU Boulder.

Learn more about your strengths

Meet with a strengths peer coach

Meeting with a strengths peer coach can help you gain a deeper understanding of your top five strengths. You’ll chat through each strength and learn more about your natural talents.

Listen to Gallup Theme Thursday

Podcasts are a great way to learn about personal and professional development. Follow the (available on most podcast apps) and listen to episodes that talk about each of your strengths.

Talk about your strengths

Once you’ve uncovered the meaning behind each of your strengths, talk about them with you roommate, close friends or family. Ask them for feedback about what strengths they see in you and how they play out in your daily life.

Apply your strengths

Find your natural roles in and outside of the classroom

Your strengths can reveal how you resolve conflict, delegate tasks and handle certain situations. Tap into your strengths to discover which roles feel natural to you in group projects and student organizations.

Consider your strengths when choosing a major

What gives you a sense of mission and purpose for your life? Knowing your values, interests and beliefs can help paint a clear picture of your academic journey and the type of career path you’d like the build. Asking yourself questions about your greatest successes will give you clues to choosing a major that’s perfect for you.

  • What has been your most successful experience in an academic, learning or athletic setting?
  • What has been your greatest success in an interpersonal relationship, leadership role, club, team or organization?
  • What kind of difference do you want to make in the world?

Discover ways to develop your strengths on campus

Get involved in a student organization or intramural sport. Volunteer at a local non-profit. Find a study abroad opportunity or get a job on campus. Every experience you have at CU Boulder will further develop your strengths and ultimately shape your professional and personal life.

If you haven’t taken CliftonStrengths,Ìývisit the CliftonStrengths website to find out how to get started.