​RIASEC

The RIASEC framework uses six themes to describe people’s interests and match them with careers. 

When a person’s work environment fits their interest themes, they are more likely to perform better at work, achieve greater academic and career success, and may even earn more money than their peers.  

The six RIASEC themes are arranged in a hexagon—the letters next to each other have more in common than the ones farther away. They are also sometimes called “Holland Codes.” Most people claim a combination of 2 or 3 themes. 

Some people’s interests change as they get older and sometimes they don’t change at all. You know your own likes and dislikes the best, so it’s up to you!

Realistic

Investigative
DOERS"
Realistic interests involve working with hands, tools, materials and the outdoors.
I am ...

  • practical
  • mechanical
  • active
I like to ...
​build and repair things
  • grow plants
  • be physically active
  • be in the outdoors
  • work with animals
  • operate tools and machines
"THINKERS"
Investigate interests involving scientific and research activities

I am ...
  • curious
  • rational
  • analytical

I like to ...
  • conduct experiments
  • figure out puzzles
  • understand why things happen
  • research to find answers
  • solve problems using math or science
  • think deeply

Artistic

Social
"CREATORS"
Artistic interests involve self expression and creativity associated with the performing, written and visual arts.

I am... 
  • imaginative
  • expressive
  • creative

I like to...
  • sketch, draw, paint
  • play a musical instrument
  • write stories, poetry, music
  • sing, act, dance
  • design fashion or interiors
  • attend concerts or plays
"Helpers"
I am...
  • helpful
  • understanding
  • patient

I like to...
  • help people with problems
  • lead discussions
  • do volunteer work
  • teach or train
  • take care of others
  • advocate for social justice


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Enterprising

"Persuaders"
Enterprising interests involve selling, managing, and social influence typically in a business context.

I am...
  • ambitious
  • talkative
  • assertive

I like to...
  • debate ideas
  • lead groups
  • persuade people
  • make decisions
  • initiate projects or start businesses
  • sell things

Conventional

"Organizers"
Conventional interests involve systematically arranging objects or information

I am...
  • orderly
  • methodical
  • efficient

I like to...
  • find patterns in data
  • organize collections
  • keep accurate records
  • follow a set plan
  • create structures and systems
  • be responsible for details