6 answers
Melissa
Student
Orlando, Florida
26
Questions
Asked
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Did your university assist you in your collegiate career?
I never saw a single person about my future and the avenues i could travel when I was getting my bachelors degree. I was not spoken to a single bit except for responses to professors. They had their great jobs, but what was mine? Why didn't I receive any guidance at a very influential time at my life which could assist me in the future? #college-major #college-admissions #recruiting #career-goals
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6 answers
Dr. Kelly Desso
Protective Services
235
Answers
Somers, Connecticut
Updated
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
While pursuing my degrees and certifications at five different institutions, I noticed a significant variance in how each school promoted their career services. Some were more proactive and responsive to student inquiries, while others placed the responsibility on the students to find their own way. I believe that the absence of a resource coordinator or academic coach can negatively impact a student's experience. I also think that every degree program should include an introductory course to the degree, school, and field to address these issues. However, only two out of the five degrees I pursued offered such a course.
Based on my observations, universities implement a variety of methods to support their graduates in securing employment:
Most universities have specialized career centers or offices that provide services such as resume writing assistance, interview preparation, job search strategies, and networking opportunities. They may also host career fairs to facilitate interactions between students and potential employers. I once sent a draft of my resume to one such office, and they returned it professionally formatted. This service is a cost-effective alternative to hiring resume writers. Universities also often organize internships or co-op programs that allow students to gain practical experience in their chosen field. These experiences frequently result in job offers or valuable professional contacts. Not all degree programs mandate internships, especially during pandemic-related lockdowns, but if this interests you, consider degree programs that require one for graduation.
Colleges usually have robust alumni networks that can serve as valuable resources for job seekers. Alumni can provide mentorship, job leads, or referrals to open positions within their organizations. I follow most of my alma maters, even those located in different states. Alumni often post job openings or certification training opportunities for graduates they trust, or alternatively, those seeking work can ask for advice on these platforms.
Universities often collaborate with industry partners to offer students internships, research opportunities, and job placements. These partnerships also guide curriculum development to ensure students acquire skills relevant to current industry needs. For example, in my region, manufacturing programs partner with CNC machinists, electrical engineers, and welders. This is specific to my area, but it's worth exploring what's available in your region.
I frequently receive emails from my alma mater about workshops or seminars on topics like networking, job search strategies, and professional etiquette. These events are designed to enhance students' employability skills. Sometimes there's a fee, but often it's as simple as signing up and attending at the scheduled time.
Many universities provide access to online job boards tailored specifically for their students and alumni. These platforms typically feature job postings from employers interested in hiring recent graduates. At two of the schools I attended, www.handshake.com is a platform where recruiters often contacted me based on my major, graduation year, or profile.
Through these resources and support systems, universities strive to equip their graduates with the tools they need to transition smoothly from academia to the workforce.
Based on my observations, universities implement a variety of methods to support their graduates in securing employment:
Most universities have specialized career centers or offices that provide services such as resume writing assistance, interview preparation, job search strategies, and networking opportunities. They may also host career fairs to facilitate interactions between students and potential employers. I once sent a draft of my resume to one such office, and they returned it professionally formatted. This service is a cost-effective alternative to hiring resume writers. Universities also often organize internships or co-op programs that allow students to gain practical experience in their chosen field. These experiences frequently result in job offers or valuable professional contacts. Not all degree programs mandate internships, especially during pandemic-related lockdowns, but if this interests you, consider degree programs that require one for graduation.
Colleges usually have robust alumni networks that can serve as valuable resources for job seekers. Alumni can provide mentorship, job leads, or referrals to open positions within their organizations. I follow most of my alma maters, even those located in different states. Alumni often post job openings or certification training opportunities for graduates they trust, or alternatively, those seeking work can ask for advice on these platforms.
Universities often collaborate with industry partners to offer students internships, research opportunities, and job placements. These partnerships also guide curriculum development to ensure students acquire skills relevant to current industry needs. For example, in my region, manufacturing programs partner with CNC machinists, electrical engineers, and welders. This is specific to my area, but it's worth exploring what's available in your region.
I frequently receive emails from my alma mater about workshops or seminars on topics like networking, job search strategies, and professional etiquette. These events are designed to enhance students' employability skills. Sometimes there's a fee, but often it's as simple as signing up and attending at the scheduled time.
Many universities provide access to online job boards tailored specifically for their students and alumni. These platforms typically feature job postings from employers interested in hiring recent graduates. At two of the schools I attended, www.handshake.com is a platform where recruiters often contacted me based on my major, graduation year, or profile.
Through these resources and support systems, universities strive to equip their graduates with the tools they need to transition smoothly from academia to the workforce.
Natalie Fein, MSeD, NCC, DCC
Nationally Certified Counselor
56
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Natalie’s Answer
Hi Melissa,
Most colleges offer Career Centers that offer these type of services to students and alumni. You may want to contact your alma mater's career office and inquire what kind of services that are available to you?
Good luck!
Natalie
Thank you very much Natalie!
Melissa
John Oller
Engineer, Project Manager, Quality Manager
159
Answers
Rockford, Illinois
Updated
John’s Answer
I was in the same situation. They didn't tell me anything that was going on as if they think that all students should know what to ask. You would have to inquire on your own and ask the questions. More schools now-a-days are starting to do better at communicating plus you have everything online now so that helps. Some high schools have people from the work force come in and help students understand the things they should know about prior to college so they are better prepared.
Naomi María Szczesiul Coale
Designer & Illustrator
19
Answers
Greensboro, North Carolina
Updated
Naomi María’s Answer
Oh goodness no, my program did nothing to help me with a career either, but they put a lot of effort in telling us what to do to improve our likelihood in getting accepted into a masters degree program. All the career knowledge I got in university was through my own volunteer work, finding internships on my own time (my program didn't include an internship module,) networking, plenty of research, and actively picking the brains of my professors for career advice.
Many universities have job fairs and workshops covering interviews and resumes, but it's up to the student to attend on their own time. The programs that require internships as part of degree completion will be more likely to spend time in resume preparation and interview advice. Academic counseling is not a requirement as part of degree programs, so you shouldn't feel like your school gave you a bad education because of that.
Many universities have job fairs and workshops covering interviews and resumes, but it's up to the student to attend on their own time. The programs that require internships as part of degree completion will be more likely to spend time in resume preparation and interview advice. Academic counseling is not a requirement as part of degree programs, so you shouldn't feel like your school gave you a bad education because of that.
Astrid Gonzalez, MBA
42
Answers
Pearland, Texas
Updated
Astrid’s Answer
My school did was host career fairs and invite guest speakers. I went to my professors in attempts to network and with hopes they would be able to guide me but that did not go as I had hoped. I tried the career services center and even applied to jobs at the university which didn't lead past 1 interview.
Was I disillusioned yes, but using Linkedin and participating in random networking opportunities helped get my name and face out there. In the end I resorted to working outside my field of study while keeping an eye open for the opportunity to do what I thought I wanted.
If you were part of an honor society there is usually a career opportunity page open to members and alumni (i.e. PTK and NSCS)
You are not alone in your experience.
Was I disillusioned yes, but using Linkedin and participating in random networking opportunities helped get my name and face out there. In the end I resorted to working outside my field of study while keeping an eye open for the opportunity to do what I thought I wanted.
If you were part of an honor society there is usually a career opportunity page open to members and alumni (i.e. PTK and NSCS)
You are not alone in your experience.
Audrey Elanjian
Sales
6
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Audrey’s Answer
Most universities have a college recruiting center and they should be able to help you explore opportunities. But the internet and job boards are also a great way for you to proactively seek out what interests you most!