Category: Students

New PE/Wellness Class Utilizes Design-Thinking for Career Development  

Posted on by Rachel Wood
stock photo of person writing on post-it notes on a wall

During the winter and spring terms, the CCPD introduced “Design Your Path,” a course that allows students to earn 0.2 units of PE credit. Guided by the Wellness Wheel, which includes eight dimensions of wellness, Kalamazoo College’s Physical Education program emphasizes Occupational Wellness—finding satisfaction, enrichment, and meaning through work. 

Recognizing that people spend a third of their lives at work, the course helps students develop skills to identify and cultivate fulfilling careers. By incorporating life design principles, “Design Your Path” encourages students to think holistically about their personal and professional development.

The course integrates design thinking, career planning, and personal growth, offering a structured approach to connect college experiences with future career aspirations. It guides students in reflecting on their K-Plan progress, exploring potential pathways, and identifying their interests, values, and strengths.

Tailored for all students, from first-years to seniors, “Design Your Path” equips them to make informed decisions about their next steps at Kalamazoo College and beyond. The CCPD hopes to offer this course again in the future. 

Impact of course on student participants 

Students completed pre- and post-course assessments for this course and reported a 36% increase in confidence across several career readiness skills, including envisioning and discerning life paths, conducting a job search, and reaching out alumni professionals and conducting career conversations. Here are comments from students who have completed the course: 

“One of the things I love about K is that it provides diverse ways to achieve success, and I think this course ensures that success continues once we graduate. My four years at K have been wonderful, but I felt quite alone in planning my next steps. This PE course gave me tools I actively use and will continue to use, which I believe is incredibly valuable.” – Senior English Major 

“Despite entering the class with a well-defined (and somewhat rigid) plan for my future, this course has significantly broadened my thinking and equipped me with new decision-making tools. For instance, the discussions on work view vs life view prompted me to reflect on aligning these perspectives, thereby enhancing my quality of life. The assignments, particularly those focusing on time management, compelled me to consider making changes. Moreover, the guidance and resources provided for graduate school preparation were invaluable. The work we undertook in this class has paved a clear path for me to better achieve my goals. Though not the sole focus, the emphasis on life balance has synergized with other physical education classes, encouraging a healthier lifestyle. This course has helped me plan for a healthier life and improved my mindset towards the future.”– Senior Physics & Mathematics Major 

“This class has allowed me the time to make a productive plan to explore career options. I liked that it broke down the steps to make a plan more reasonable rather than me trying to do it alone. I think it is great for any year as some of the information I learned not only helped me, but I shared it with my roommates, and it helped them as well.” – Senior Psychology & Chemistry Major 

“I like that this program is focused on your personal path and goals for the future. While difficult, it provides an opportunity to critically think back on your choices. Additionally, interacting with other students facilitates insightful conversations that can extend your viewpoint and improve your ability to make decisions.” – Junior French & Psychology Major 

“I think it would be nice if this course was required to be taken at some point for every student at K. Students could choose what year, but I think it is super useful for everyone, and can definitely help a lot with preparing students for life after college.” – Sophomore Biology Major 

Professional Headshots for Students at the Career Studio 

Posted on by Rachel Wood

The Career Studio is excited to continue offering professional headshots for students. Launched last Winter, this program has already provided 51 students with high-quality headshots. 

Led by Huin Lee ‘25, a talented photographer and editor, the program has allowed participants to enhance their professional profiles while giving Huin valuable experience. This year, we welcome Jose Lopez Bernal ’27 as our new student photographer. 

The headshot program offers students a critical tool for building their personal brands and preparing for the professional world. Students can sign up for headshot appointments on Handshake. These sessions will be available during Weeks 2-9, every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Career Studio. We encourage all students, from seniors to first-year students, to seize this opportunity to enhance their professional profiles. 

Career Launch: Empowering First-Generation College Students 

Posted on by Rachel Wood

The Career Launch Internship Prep Program (CLIPP) made significant strides in empowering first-generation college students to take charge of their career paths this year. Designed to guide students from their first year through senior year, the program served 18 participants, with 88% identifying as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color). This donor-funded initiative to support internship access for traditionally underrepresented students was developed in partnership with Career Launch.

One of the most impressive outcomes of the program was the shift in students’ attitudes toward networking and relationship building. Before joining CLIPP, 58% of participants hesitated to proactively build professional relationships until they needed a job.

However, after completing the program, this reluctance dropped dramatically to just 10%. This remarkable change demonstrates the program’s effectiveness in enhancing students’ confidence and their ability to navigate the professional world. 

As part of their learning, students engaged in an eight-step framework that encouraged them to conduct career conversations with industry professionals. These conversations helped participants explore various career paths, develop internal advocates and mentors, and even secure interviews for internships and jobs within the hidden job market. The program’s structure emphasized learning through repetition, using a combination of videos, workbooks, and group sessions. By the end of CLIPP, students were expected to complete at least two career conversations, a goal that many exceeded. 

100%

of students reported greater confidence in understanding how to create relationships with professionals from scratch.

The results speak for themselves: ten CLIPP participants successfully landed summer internships or full-time jobs. Victor Guerra Lopez ‘24 was hired by admissions, while Cesar Soria ‘24 joined the Center for Civic Engagement (CCE). Alisa Rodela ‘24 secured a position at PentAir Water in Wisconsin, and Kevin Nguyen ‘25 obtained a summer internship at PowerStrength Training Systems. Other notable placements include Nancy Murillo ‘25 at MAPSCORPS, Jesus Perez ‘25 at El Concilio, and Vanessa Barroco ‘25 at Girls Who Code. 

A participant from the post-survey highlighted the program’s impact, stating, “Career Launch has doubled my confidence in my career readiness, professional image, and networking skills.” This testimonial encapsulates the essence of CLIPP, reflecting its success in not only preparing students for their careers but also in instilling a sense of self-assuredness that will serve them well beyond their college years. 

Our new colleague Alejandro Alaniz ‘18, ran the CLIPP program this year. He said, “I’m thrilled with the incredible growth and achievements we’ve seen from this year’s CLIPP cohort. Their dedication and passion have truly set the bar high, and I can’t wait to see the next group take on new challenges and continue building on this momentum!”. The Career Launch Internship Prep Program continues to pave the way for first-generation college students, ensuring they are well-equipped to explore their career options and build meaningful professional relationships. With its comprehensive approach, the program stands as a testament to the power of proactive career development and mentorship. 

Exploring Career Paths: Psychology Majors Engage with Alumni

Posted on by Rachel Wood

This past spring, the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD), in collaboration with the Psychology Department, offered newly declared psychology majors a unique opportunity to explore their career possibilities through an innovative approach. Typically, Hornet Huddles—career conversations that connect students and alumni in one-on-one or small group settings—take place outside the classroom. However, this collaboration brought Huddles directly into the classroom during class sessions.

Hornet Huddles were integrated into two sections of the Sophomore Research Methods course, providing students with a direct link between their academic learning and real-world applications early in their academic journey. Each session began with alumni introductions, where they outlined their current roles, career trajectories, and how their education at Kalamazoo College influenced their professional paths. Students had the opportunity to meet with nine different alumni from a variety of industries.

Following the introductions, students engaged in virtual small group discussions with alumni who captured their interest. This format encouraged personalized interactions and deeper conversations about specific career paths. During the hour-long sessions, each student had the chance to meet with 2-3 different alumni, allowing them to explore multiple career options.

The small group settings fostered a dynamic environment where students could ask questions, seek advice, and learn directly from the experiences of K alumni. Conversations ranged from practical inquiries about day-to-day responsibilities in psychology-related roles to aspirational discussions on leveraging a psychology degree for long-term career success.

Alumni shared insights into a wide range of careers, including clinical psychology, research, human resources, and more, demonstrating the versatility of a psychology degree. They also offered valuable tips on navigating the job market, pursuing graduate studies, and the importance of networking and continuous learning.

We are grateful for the collaboration between our two departments and for the time and expertise shared by our alumni.

Alumni who are interested in supporting K students’ career development are encouraged to complete the CCPD Alumni Engagement Interest Form.

Chicago Externship Trek: Connecting Students with Alumni and Career Opportunities

Posted on by Rachel Wood
Students sitting at a table in Chicago, IL as part of the Chicago Externship Trek

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. 

Earn While You Learn: Propel Your Career with the CCPD

Posted on by Rachel Wood

Are you a looking for an enriching part-time job on campus? Do you want to work on your own career development? Do you thrive on helping others in reaching their goals? If so, we have the perfect role for you! The Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) is currently seeking students to join our team as Career Ambassadors for the Fall of 2024. Extensive paid training will occur prior to the start of Fall Term.

What Does Being a Career Ambassador Entail?

As a Career Ambassador, you’ll play a vital role in assisting your fellow students in navigating the challenging landscape of life after K. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

1. Mentorship and Guidance: You’ll assist your peers in crafting compelling resumes, cover letters, and other application materials, ensuring they stand out in a competitive job market.

2. Platform Proficiency: Gain expertise in various online platforms such as Handshake, Big Interview, and LinkedIn, and impart your knowledge to others, empowering them to leverage these tools effectively.

3. Outreach and Engagement: From giving presentations about CCPD services to posting job opportunities on Handshake and distributing marketing materials across campus, you’ll actively engage with the student community to raise awareness and participation in career-related activities.

4. Professional Development: Through mandatory training sessions and bi-weekly staff meetings, you’ll hone essential skills such as time management, communication, and professionalism, setting a solid foundation for your future career endeavors.

5. Leadership Opportunities: Take the lead in organizing and hosting career-related programs, further enhancing your leadership and presentation skills while making a tangible impact within your campus community.

Why Should You Apply?

Working as a Career Ambassador offers a myriad of benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth:

1. Flexible Hours: With a commitment of just eight to ten hours per week, you can easily balance your academic responsibilities with valuable work experience.

2. Skill Development: From decision-making and teamwork to adaptability and technological proficiency, you’ll acquire a diverse skill set that will serve you well in any future career path.

3. Networking: Interact with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and employers, expanding your network and gaining valuable insights into various industries and professions.

4. Impactful Work: As a Career Ambassador, you’ll directly contribute to the success and professional development of your peers, leaving a lasting legacy on K’s campus community.

In the CA role, I developed my leadership skills by giving presentations on campus and facilitating conversations with students and alumni. It also helped me get comfortable talking to people in different industries and building community. Being able to lead discussions and create community is such a key skill to have, especially in this time period filled with hybrid and remote jobs. The people skills I gained at the CCPD have helped me a lot in my professional and personal life. -Juan Avila ‘19

As I transitioned into the professional world after Kalamazoo College, the foundation laid during my time as a Career Associate continued to be a guiding force. The skills homed in resume building, interview preparation, and understanding how to proactively seek out available resources have been instrumental in shaping my successful professional journey. I am grateful for the enriching experience at CCPD, which not only empowered me to assist others but also equipped me with the tools necessary for my own ongoing career success. -Siga Kisielius ‘16

How to Apply

Ready to take the next step towards becoming a Career Ambassador? Submit a cover letter and your resume, highlighting your interest in the position and how your skills and experiences align with the role. For assistance with your application materials, visit our website or reach out to Keri Bol, Career Studio Manager, via email at keri.bol@kzoo.edu.

Join Our Team Today!

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make a difference while enhancing your own personal and professional development. Apply to be a Career Ambassador and embark on a rewarding journey towards unlocking your full potential. We look forward to welcoming you to our dynamic team at the CCPD!

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. 

Pawsitively Adorable

Posted on by Rachel Wood

Sure, we’re here to help you figure out life after K (we are “the career center” afterall), but that doesn’t mean we only talk about work! Our lives outside of work are full…. including furry friends that make every day brighter. Check our our new Meet the CCPD Pets page to visit Milo, Bella, and the rest of our cozy gang. These adorable creatures bring warmth and joy to our lives, and we couldn’t resist sharing their cuteness with you. Consider it a little escape from the chaos of the end of the term!

Unlocking Career Opportunities: K College’s Exclusive Chicago Externship Program June 12-14, 2024

Posted on by Rachel Wood

Are you a first-year or sophomore student at K, eagerly exploring potential career paths? Look no further! K College is thrilled to introduce an exclusive opportunity for students of any major or intended major to dive into the professional world through the Chicago Externship Program. This program not only offers a unique chance to shadow professionals but also provides an immersive experience in the vibrant Windy City.

Who Should Apply: If you’re a first-year or sophomore student at K College, regardless of your major or intended major, this program is tailor-made for you. Whether you have a clear career goal or are still exploring your options, the Chicago Externship Program welcomes all enthusiastic students ready to embark on a transformative journey.

What’s In Store for Selected Student Externs: Those selected for the program will enjoy a host of benefits, including transportation, lodging, and meals throughout the duration of the externship. This is not just an opportunity to observe professionals in action; it’s a chance to gain firsthand experience of daily work life and industry challenges in a field of interest.

Networking Opportunities: One of the highlights of the Chicago Externship Program is the chance to connect with accomplished K alumni during an exclusive networking reception. Imagine the valuable insights and advice you could gain from those who have walked the same halls and faced similar career choices. This is more than just an externship; it’s a gateway to expanding your professional network and building lasting connections.

Beyond “Career”: Aside from the career exploration aspects of this trip, participants will also get a taste of Chicago. From its iconic architecture to its rich culinary scene, the Windy City has something for everyone. This externship isn’t just about your career; it’s about broadening your horizons and gaining a taste of the variety beyond the classroom.

How to Apply: The application process is simple and straightforward. No prior experience is necessary, and there are no essays to stress over. Just complete the online application before the midnight deadline on Tuesday, March 12. Take the first step toward unlocking exciting career possibilities and apply now!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the schedule? June 12-14, 8AM-8PM. The tentative schedule will involve two half-day and one full-day job shadows, along with a student/alumni networking reception and evening activities.
  • When will we find out if we are selected? Applications are due by Tuesday, March 12. At that time, we will review applicants for selection, which is mainly about making sure there is an alum that is a good match for the job shadow. We are continuing to recruit alumni now based on applicants’ interests. You should know if you were selected by the end of March at the latest.
  • What all is covered? We’re riding a bus to Chicago and back, and all of the transportation costs to and from the job shadow site will also be covered by the program. Students should not have to pay for anything unless they want to do something on their free time (there isn’t a ton of free time, but some may choose to explore after dinners).