Internships, job applications, and long-term career goals are quickly shifting from a passive thought to an immediate priority as the end of the semester approaches. To bring aid at the center of this transition is the college’s Career Services office, a resource designed to help students navigate the path from classroom to career.
“In a nutshell, our goal is to make sure that students feel prepared for the job market after they leave,” said Krista Roberts, the Associate Director of Career services.
“Whether it’s alumni coming back and talking to us, or students coming in along the way working on resumes, internships, (or) job searching, we’re here for all of it and then some,” Roberts said.
Career Services is able to provide a wide range of support for students at every stage of their academic journey. According to David Speiser, Director of Career Services, these services include résumé and cover letter reviews, mock interviews, graduate school preparation, career counseling, and help securing internships. The office also hosts events designed to prepare students for networking and job searches while offering one-on-one guidance tailored to individual goals.
A new tool recently acquired to help students is Handshake. It’s a platform that helps connect students directly with employers and opportunities, and allows for more intimate options as only students may participate. Roberts described the process of connecting students with internships and jobs as “a little bit of everything,” noting that opportunities often come through alumni outreach, employer partnerships, and direct student requests.
“Sometimes students come in and say, ‘I really want to work for this company,’ and then we’ll reach out and help facilitate that connection,” Roberts said said.
Despite the availability of these resources, both Roberts and Speiser acknowledge that not all students take full advantage of them. While many students engage with Career Services when they need immediate help, Speiser identified what he calls an “awareness gap,” where students wait too long to seek guidance.
“Use us before you need us,” Speiser emphasized, encouraging students to begin career planning early rather than waiting until their senior year.
This delay can come at a real cost to students though. Speiser points out that there are many companies that begin recruiting for internships months in advance, more specifically during the fall as they prepare for the following summer. Students who wait too long may incidentally watch these opportunities go by entirely and enter the job market at a disadvantage compared to peers with internship experience.
Roberts explained a challenge with student interest and engagement, especially when it comes to using available tools such as the previously mentioned Handshake. While the platform offers access to a wide range of opportunities, she has been working to increase student awareness and usage. “There’s some really awesome things available… get on there and go find it,” she said, noting that part of her role is helping students navigate the platform and feel confident using it.
Beyond just the technical, both directors mention value in mindset and initiative. One that Roberts highlighted specifically was follow-through as a key indicator step to the beginnings of success. “Every time I meet with a student and I see them follow through… that to me is a success,” she said, explaining that even small steps like applying for an intimidating internship can make a meaningful difference.
Speiser spoke in a similar vein, offering clear and concise advice for students preparing for what is to come: “Don’t fall asleep at the wheel of your life. Be engaged, be actively thinking and planning, and don’t just go through the motions.” He encourages students to seek out opportunities, and participate in the makings of their career whenever they can; developing those long lasting connections and continuing to hone and develop professional skills, even if they are unsure of their long-term career path.
Career Services also makes it clear that it is extremely helpful to acquire community and support throughout the process. Roberts noted that students often underestimate how many of their peers are experiencing the same challenges, such as application fatigue or uncertainty about the future. Building a support network is a necessity; whether through classmates, mentors, or career advisors can make the process more manageable and less isolating.
Looking ahead, Career Services continues to play a crucial role in helping students bridge the gap between college and career. Through a combination of personalized support, professional resources, and expanding opportunities, the office remains committed to preparing students not just for their first job, but for long-term success.
