Create Your Own Success: How to Prepare for the Education and Career You Want is a compilations of articles and readings that center around the topics typically discussed in general education academic readiness and career exploration courses, particularly those in California State University programs. The readings are organized into four units which cover academic success, career exploration, education plans, and personal development. Engaging and focused on practical application, the readings address topics such as learning styles, study skills, decision-making, goal-setting, understanding major requirements, and stress management. Students also learn about effective reading, creating a positive study environment, the importance of identifying and assessing one's own interests, traits, skills, and abilities, and engaging with a diverse society and world. Each reading has been thoughtfully chosen with the goals of giving student-readers the information and skill set they need to succeed in a college or university environment, choose a course of study that supports their career goals, and plan for a career that engages their interests and plays to their personal and educational strengths. Create Your Own Success is ideal for courses in self-integration and life-long learning. Daniel J. Thompson earned his master's degrees in educational administration at California State University, Fullerton and educational counseling at University of La Verne.

Currently a Ph.D. candidate at Claremont Graduate University, he is studying higher education with a focus on student development. Professor Thompson is a lecturer in the Department of Advanced Studies in Education and Counseling at California State University, Long Beach where he teaches courses in career and personal explorations, educational psychology, and child and adolescent development.