Last week, the Center for Career and Professional Development kicked off a new pilot, K in the Zoo: Winter Break Day. Kalamazoo College students spent a day job shadowing local worksites, marking the expansion of the larger K in the Zoo job shadow initiative, which makes it easier for students to explore different career options through short, local experiences focused on observation and connection. Students spent the day learning directly from professionals about career paths, daily responsibilities, workplace culture, and the decisions that shape early careers.
Each student was matched with a host based on their interests. Because the group was small, hosts could share openly and students had plenty of time to ask questions. Many students said that seeing workplaces up close made career paths feel clearer and next steps less overwhelming. They also learned that careers don’t always follow a straight line, and that skills from a liberal arts education can be useful in any field.
One student reflected: “I gained a deeper appreciation for the company’s positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture, as well as its commitment to community impact and continuous professional development. Seeing how strongly the company’s core values align with my own has made me even more enthusiastic about the possibility of joining in the future.”
Building a Local Career Ecosystem
K in the Zoo strengthens connections between Kalamazoo College students and the local professional community. By creating structured, manageable opportunities for engagement, the program supports:
- Early career exploration
- Alumni and employer partnership
- Confidence in professional communication
- Increased access to experiential learning
Hosts described the experience as meaningful on their end as well:
Blake MacDonald ’08, Director of Strategic Sales at Stryker, shared: “A K alum helped me land my first job, so this is a small way for me to pay it forward to the next generation of future K grads.”
Meg Brake, Recruiting Manager at Greenleaf Hospitality Group, said: “I loved just seeing the students’ delight as they learn more about other areas of the business. We aren’t just a hotel!”
Devin Norman ’93, Dentist and Owner at Norman Family Dentistry, noted: “It was a lot of fun to recall what it was like to investigate different career opportunities. Students today are definitely more aware and more prepared to act on those opportunities.”
Chad Goodwill ’92 – Vice President, Business Banking at 1st Source Bank, said: ” It was a great day for both of us. I encourage you all to get plugged in to the program. It is a tremendous resource right in our back yard.”
Looking Ahead
K in the Zoo continues over Spring Break with additional host sites and shadowing opportunities. Students interested in participating in the Spring Break cycle may apply through Friday, February 27. Alumni and employer partners interested in hosting students in future cycles are encouraged to contact Rachel Wood at rwood@kzoo.edu.