What is a short, informal talk with someone who works in a career that appeals to you called?

A short, informal talk with someone who works in a career that appeals to you is known as an exploratory interview. This type of interaction allows you to gather information about the individual's job, industry insights, and career path, providing valuable insights that can assist you in making informed decisions about your own career choices. The purpose is often to gain perspective rather than to seek a specific job opportunity, making it a low-pressure way to learn more about a particular field.

Contrastingly, a job application is a formal request for employment, detailing qualifications and experiences, while a cooperative program typically involves a structured work experience integrated with academic coursework. Job shadowing involves following a professional in their work environment to observe their daily tasks and responsibilities, offering direct exposure to the job but lacking the conversational aspect of exploring career interests.