Category: Faculty/Staff

Chicago Externship Trek: Connecting Students with Alumni and Career Opportunities

Posted on by Rachel Wood

In June, the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) piloted the Chicago Externship Trek, offering first-year and sophomore students a unique chance to explore career paths through job shadows in Chicago. Running from June 12 to June 14, 2024, this initiative provided 20 students with hands-on experience and valuable networking opportunities with alumni. 

Innovative Career Exploration 

Unlike traditional job shadows, the Trek gathered a cohort of students for a concentrated city-based experience. Students participated in half-day and full-day job shadows hosted by 12 alumni across diverse industries, gaining insight into professional environments and the daily operations within their fields of interest. 

Networking and Development 

Another feature of the Trek was a student/alumni networking reception, where students practiced their networking skills and gained career advice from alumni. # alumni living in the Chicago area attended, providing initial exposure for students. Preparation for the Trek included researching alumni matches and honing networking techniques, enhancing the effectiveness of their interactions. 

The program also included a work-from-home panel featuring alumni who adapted to remote work, providing students with strategies for success in evolving work environments. 

Exploring Chicago 

For many participants, the Trek offered their first experience of a major city like Chicago. Beyond job shadows, students explored the city’s iconic architecture and diverse culture, enriching their overall experience. 

Positive Feedback 

Both students and alumni praised the program. “The Trek gave me a clearer career direction,” said one student. Another said, “It was life changing and let me explore the different areas of what I want to do. The most important thing that I learned is the ability to talk to people and the importance of networking and finding people’s different perspectives. It’s so helpful to be able to hear everyone’s professional story and to connect with them.” Alumni enjoyed reconnecting with the college and guiding current students. “Sharing my career journey with students was rewarding,” noted one alum. Career Coach, Alejandro Alaniz, said, “[the externship trek] was a great experience for students to glimpse into their career interests and have real-world conversations on how to get there. I am excited to continue to offer these to our students!” 

Future Plans 

The success of the Chicago Externship Trek highlights the potential for city-based externships. Valerie Miller, CCPD Director, expressed excitement about repeating the program, potentially in other cities with large alumni hubs. “Combining job shadowing, networking, and urban exploration, the Trek offers a comprehensive introduction to the professional world,” she said. 

The CCPD aims to grow this initiative, reflecting Kalamazoo College’s commitment to integrating academic exploration with career readiness, preparing students for their professional journeys. 

Bridging Academia and Career: CCPD and English Department Collaboration

Posted on by Rachel Wood

This winter, Ryan Fong, Associate Professor of English contacted the CCPD to collaborate with him for the English Department’s “Introduction to Literary Theory and Research Methods” class.  The partnership aimed to harmonize academic exploration with career readiness, empowering students to seamlessly connect their intellectual pursuits with their professional aspirations.

An assignment, titled “Educational Design,” guided students through five prompts, fostering self-reflection, academic exploration, and future career planning. From pondering big questions to mapping out a comprehensive academic and professional plan, students navigated the intersection of knowledge and career preparedness.

Students explored their major, minor, or concentration in response to prompt three, linking academic pursuits to overarching questions and dreams. By delving into the Kalamazoo College catalog, they identified relevant courses and articulated the cohesive nature of their chosen academic path.

Prompt four challenged students to create a tentative plan encompassing their major, minor, language classes, Shared Passages seminars, and courses from various academic divisions. This plan aimed to provide a well-rounded liberal arts education, aligning with the college’s commitment to versatile thinking.

The final prompt involved a crucial meeting with CCPD Career Coaches, propelling students from academia to the professional realm. Post-meeting, students reflected on the plans to develop professional skills and gain valuable work experience during their time at Kalamazoo College.

“These assignments are really trying to help our students feel empowered to craft their education in meaningful ways and to show them the value of gaining the broad perspectives and knowledges that are the hallmark of the liberal arts,” said Fong. His course development and partnership with the CCPD exemplifies Kalamazoo College’s commitment to career readiness. By integrating academic exploration with career preparation, students embark on a journey of self-discovery, equipped with the tools for a seamless transition into their professional lives after graduation.

Earn Credit for Summer Internship 

Posted on by Rachel Wood

The CCPD is collaborating with faculty to pilot a course series for students to earn credit for their summer internship. Marin Heinritz, Associate Professor of English, and Valerie Miller, Director for the Center for Career and Professional Development, are developing a two-course sequence and an asynchronous summer module that provides students with tools and activities to prepare for, take advantage of, and reflect on their summer internship experience.  

To earn 1 unit of credit for their internship, students need to: 

  • Complete the Pre-Internship Course (IDSY 295) in Spring 2024 
  • Complete a 240-hour Summer Internship and Summer Course Module  
  • Complete the Post-Internship Course in Spring 2025 

The Pre-Internship Course (IDSY 295) will be taught Tuesdays from 12-1pm during Spring 2024 and will include reading assignments, discussions, and a series of exercises and reflections to prepare students for their summer internship. Students earn .2 units for this course. 

Students in the Pre-Internship Course will be automatically enrolled in the Summer Module. In addition to working a minimum of 240 hours in their approved internship, students will complete regular structured reflection writing assignments about their internship experience. Students do not pay tuition or earn credit for the Summer Module on its own. 

Students who have completed the Pre-Internship Course and the Summer Module may then enroll in the Post-Internship Course to earn credit for their summer internship. This course will provide an opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of the connection between their academic coursework and their internship experience and make plans for their next steps in their work and academic life. Students earn .8 units for this course (.6 units for the internship and summer module, and .2 units for the post-internship coursework) for a total of 1 unit of credit in conjunction with completion of the pre-internship course 

If you are interested in earning credit for your 2024 Summer Internship, register for IDSY 295 (Pre-Internship Course) today!   

If you have questions, please contact Valerie Miller at vmiller@kzoo.edu. 

Navigating the Spring 2024 GLCA Virtual Career Fair 

Posted on by Rachel Wood

Our students aren’t just attendees at virtual career fairs; they’re success stories in the making. Over the past years, students like you have seized incredible opportunities via the GLCA Virtual Career Fair! Check in to the myriad of career opportunities with renowned organizations across various industries. 

Event Details: 

What to Expect: 

Engage with Diverse Employers: 

Connect with 39 employers representing a spectrum of industries. From technology and finance to healthcare and non-profit, this virtual career fair offers a diverse range of opportunities to suit your interests and aspirations. 

Tailored Group and 1:1 Sessions: 

Customize your experience by signing up for either 30-minute group sessions or 10-minute one-on-one sessions with participating organizations. This personalized approach allows you to interact directly with recruiters, ask questions, and gain insights into potential career paths. 

Explore Entry-Level Jobs, Internships, and Volunteer Opportunities: 

Whether you’re seeking your first job or an internship to gain valuable experience the GLCA Virtual Career Fair is the platform to discover and explore diverse opportunities. 

Seamless Virtual Experience: 

Attend the fair from the comfort of your own space. The virtual format ensures a user-friendly and accessible platform for students from all GLCA member colleges. 

How to Participate: 

  • Register Today: Head to the event website to register for the virtual career fair. By registering, you commit to attending employer sessions and making the most out of this valuable opportunity. 
  • Prepare and Research: Before the fair, research the participating organizations to make informed decisions about which sessions to attend. Prepare thoughtful questions to engage with recruiters and showcase your interest. 
  • Connect with us at the CCPD: For any questions regarding registration or attending virtual sessions, reach out to us here at the CCPD. The Career Studio is open M-F from 10AM-2PM and we’re available outside of that via appointment/email! We are here to support you in making the most of this event. 

We Can’t Wait to See You There! 

Join us on February 29th, explore the possibilities, and pave the way for your professional success. See you at the Spring 2024 GLCA Virtual Career Fair! 

K to the White House

Posted on by Rachel Wood

Join Harold Phillips ’88., and Matt Pearl, ’03, to learn about their career paths from K to the White House. Harold and Matt will share how their experiences at K contributed to decisions around post-graduate education that led to opportunities to work in and around government before joining the White House staff. Dr. Max Cherem ’04, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Department Chair and Pre-Law Advisor, will moderate this event. Co-sponsored by the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) and the Office of Alumni Engagement. 

K to the White House 
Friday, October 6 
4:00 – 5:00 p.m. 
Room 103, Dewing Hall 

About Harold Phillips and Matt Pearl:

Harold Phillips is the Director of the White House Office of National AIDS Policy. He earned a Master’s in Regional Planning, Housing and Community Development at UNC-Chapel Hill, following his studies in political science and English at K.  Prior to his current role, Harold worked in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in a number of positions developing programs and policies designed to end the HIV epidemic in the United States and globally.

Matt Pearl is the Director of Emerging Technology in the White House National Security Council. Immediately before serving at the NSC, Matt was an Associate Bureau Chief at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).  A philosophy major and history minor while at K, he attended law school at Yale University.  After law school, he clerked for Judge Lawrence Kahn of the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York, and Judge Laurence Harris Hartz of the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit.

GLCA Fair Connects K Students to Opportunities

Posted on by Rachel Wood

The upcoming GLCA Virtual Career Fair (week 3 Tuesday, Sep 26, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.) is an unmissable opportunity to connect with potential employers, learn about different industries, and take proactive steps towards life after K. Mark your calendar for September 26! Wondering if these fairs actually net K students jobs? Take a glance at this post from last year’s GLCA fair, written by Blagoja Naskovski ’24, about his experience (hint: he met his summer employer there). Yes, most students have classes on Tuesdays; don’t worry, you sign up for specific times to meet with recruiters— you don’t have to be there from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.! Learn more on Handshake.

Discover Opportunities at the On Campus Student Employment Fair!

Posted on by Rachel Wood

Attention all students! Are you looking to earn while you learn, gain valuable experience, and enhance your skills right on campus? We are thrilled to invite you to our On Campus Student Employment Fair happening during Week 3 on Friday, September 29, in Red Square from 10 AM to 2 PM. Join us and explore a myriad of job opportunities tailored to fit your student schedule.

Details:

  • Date: Week 3 Friday (September 29)
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Location: Red Square (outside Dewing Basement)

Why On Campus Employment?

Working on campus offers a unique set of advantages:

  • Convenience: On-campus jobs are easily accessible, allowing you to save time on commuting.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Employers on campus understand the demands of being a student and often offer flexible work hours.
  • Skill Development: Gain practical experience, enhance your skill set, and bolster your resume without leaving the academic environment.

Don’t Miss Out!

Mark your calendars for the On Campus Student Employment Fair during Week 3, and don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to explore on-campus job prospects, network with professionals, and take a step closer to a successful future!

Why did I decide to attend the GLCA virtual career fair? 

Posted on by Rachel Wood

Post by Blagoja Naskovski ’24

GLCA Virtual Career Fair - Thursday, February 23, 2023 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. (ET) Hosted on Handshake

My Fall ’22 was very busy in terms of finding new career opportunities for the summer of ’23. As a student majoring in Business, my goal was to secure an internship in investment research and financial services. Chasing job opportunities might sometimes be fun, but it takes a lot of time and energy. What I really learned is that one of the key factors to be successful in grabbing an opportunity in your favorite field is to attend career fairs where you can directly communicate with a hiring manager and to connect with the alumni community. Fortunately, I saw that our CCPD was co-organizing an event that was seen by me as a chance that should not be missed – GLCA virtual career fair.  

From education organizations and health care services, finance, and marketing to government to nonprofit organizations, GLCA career fair has a diverse spectrum of internship opportunities.  

My case included searching and talking to recruiters from the companies that are in the sphere of financial services and investment analysis. I was fortunate to learn for the first time about the company that I am going to intern at this summer- Morningstar. I had a great time talking to the recruiter about the details and specifics of the Morningstar Summer Internship Program. After the session I decided to connect with some of the K alumni at Morningstar and apply for the position. I was fortunate to connect with a K alum and to gain valuable suggestions during the hiring stages.  

One of the best things about this career fair that it is a student centric. You can schedule a 1:1 or group session with the hiring manager based on your time availability. Most of them are in a 1:1 format so you have the chance to talk directly to the recruiter. More importantly, there is an unlimited number of sessions that you can attend regardless of your school major. 

I am grateful that I attended the GLCA virtual career fair last September. This event represents a fantastic opportunity where all students, from diverse backgrounds, are given a chance to attend and talk to recruiters and hiring managers from many companies and organizations. Therefore, I strongly encourage my peers, regardless of their academic major, to attend this event (Thursday, February 23, 11 AM – 2 PM, Virtual on Handshake) and establish new connections in their professional network while learning more about different industries and career opportunities. 

Unpaid Intern Stipend Applications Open to All – updated $$

Posted on by Rachel Wood

The Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) is committed to helping all K students participate in internships so they can gain experience and successfully transition into careers post-graduation. To alleviate the financial burden on students participating in unpaid internships, the CCPD has updated its summer internship stipend program. While the CCPD believes that all internships should be paid, we understand that many industries rely on unpaid internships and the stipend program helps ensure that more students have access to valuable internship opportunities.

The updated program features tiered stipends with the primary goal of increasing the amount of funding provided to students. The tiers take into account factors such as the inability of students to work jobs during their internships, inflation, and the rising cost of housing in various cities.

To learn more about the tiers replacing the previous flat $4,000 stipend structure, and/or to apply, please visit: https://career.kzoo.edu/students/internships/summer-internships/

Save the date for February career fairs

Posted on by Rachel Wood

Save the date for February’s job/internship fairs for K students. Three are in person, and the CCPD will reimburse you for transportation if you need it. These fairs are the largest local recruiting events of the year for college students!

Wondering which employers will be there, and/or what they’re looking for in applicants? Check out the links for each— they have all the info you need.

WMU Government and Nonprofit Job Fair

Tuesday, Feb 7, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

WMU Bernhard Center at 1922 West Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo

WMU Spring Engineering Expo

Wednesday, Feb 8, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

WMU Bernhard Center at 1922 West Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo

WMU Career Fair

Thursday, Feb 9, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

WMU Bernhard Center at 1922 West Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo

GLCA Virtual Career Fair

Thursday, Feb 23 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

Virtual Event in Handshake 

Need a ride? 

Students needing transportation are eligible to be reimbursed by the CCPD for local Uber or Lyft trips to and from the WMU fairs listed. We encourage you to “car pool” by coordinating these trips with friends interested in attending, wherever possible, though this is not required for reimbursement.

Steps: 

  1. Use Lyft or Uber app to travel to/from the fair(s).
  2. Email your Lyft or Uber receipt(s) and indicate which fair you attended to Valerie Miller at vmiller@kzoo.edu.​