Career and Life Integration
Career & Life Integration is the way forward. Using design thinking methods, students learn how to navigate ambiguity and create a fulfilling, purpose-driven life.
Our approach is to empower colleges and schools to implement courses, modules, and engagement for their students that best fit their unique needs. Using this model, we support faculty and staff through every step of the process of incorporating Career & Life Integration into college and school frameworks.
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“A life and career of joy and purpose for every student”
Methodology
Simply put, our goal is to help every student find a career and life of joy and purpose. Using design thinking methods, students learn how to navigate ambiguity and create a fulfilling, purpose-driven life. We help to reframe the question “What do you want to be when you grow up?” to “Who or what do you want to grow into?”. Life is all about growth and change. It’s not static. Nobody really knows what they want to be, even those who checked the box for doctor, lawyer, or engineer. These are just vague directions on a life path. There are so many questions that persist at every step of the way. What people need is a process– a design process– for figuring out what they want, whom they want to grow into, and how to create a life they love.
Spring 2025 Impact
In Spring 2025, a 3-hour course and a 3-module series were launched to pilot Career & Life Integration on campus. The aggregate data in the infographic below shows the growth of students who participated in these opportunities.
What Students Are Saying About Career & Life Integration
“The Design Thinking Mindsets have helped me to reframe the way I think about my future into a structure that I can understand. It has made forward thinking less stressful for me.” –Music Student
“I love talking about creative career planning. School up to this point has been very single path, and I’m glad there’s finally a place where someone is saying there’s multiple ways to be happy.” –Journalism Student
“I loved Odyssey Planning! I feel less anxious about the future and don’t dread the fact that my career path might not be as straightforward as I had planned.” –International Relations Student
Career & Life Integration Training
Beginning Fall 2025, we are excited to offer monthly training sessions for staff and faculty focused on Career & Life Integration. These 2-hour workshops are designed to equip participants with the tools and confidence to facilitate meaningful Life Design experiences for their students. There will also be the option to engage in deeper learning in order to earn a digital badge showcasing your proficiency.
Training Overview
- Experiential Learning: Engage in hands-on activities that mirror the Life Design process, fostering deeper understanding and practical application.
- Career & Life Integration Framework: Explore the principles of Life Design and understand how this methodology looks at UT Austin.
- Facilitation Skills: Develop essential skills to guide others through reflective and meaningful processes effectively.
- Confidence Building: Leave with the knowledge of how to implement Career & Life Integration initiatives within your own unit.
In addition to these foundational trainings, the Career & Life Integration team will provide regular opportunities for staff and faculty to participate in facilitator-led experiences. These sessions allow participants to experience the process firsthand, enhancing their understanding and preparation to lead similar activities for their own students.
We look forward to supporting your journey in becoming a proficient Career & Life Integration facilitator! If you prefer a private training for your team, reach out and let us know.