Often students are unsure of what exactly they want to do with their futures, even in college. Whether they cannot decide what branch of their major they want to pursue or even what they want to major in, students are stuck making this decision that begins the rest of their lives. That kind of decision that can be very overwhelming for a young adult, which is why Career Services can be a very beneficial resource to take advantage of.
Career Services, which is located on the second floor of Conyngham Hall, aids students that range from freshman to alumni.
People in this department help students such as freshman and sophomores decide on a major or change a major. They look at the students’ strengths and interests as well as what skills are related to majors to build a path.
They also assist others, mostly upperclassmen and alumni, in creating a solid resume, practice interviewing, and applying for jobs. They can also assist in connecting students with companies for careers after they graduate. Their major goal is to help students be successful.
“We help (students) clarify what they want and help coach them through a plan to get it,” says Carol Bosack-Kosak, director of Career Services.
Another way they try to aid students is by holding job fairs. The first one will be held on Nov. 9 in the ballroom of the Student Union Building at 6 p.m. There will be many networking opportunities, with employers at tables for students to interact with to help clarify their career choices.
Another department that is used as a resource for students’ futures is the internships and mentoring office. The most beneficial part of taking part of an internship is that they may develop into an actual career.
When meeting with Internship and Mentoring Coordinator (official title??) Sharon Castano, students bring a draft of their resumes. Castano works with students to make changes to better their resume for potential employers. She then matches students with local sites that helps solidify a career choice.
“We work together to find a site that works best for both the site and the student,” says Castano
There is also an internship fair that will be held in the ballroom of the Student Center on October 20th. There will be approximately 40 to 45 employers that meet with about 120 to 130 students who are interested in having Wilkes students as interns.
Taking part in an internship can be very beneficial to students for their future. Senior psychology major Justine Adams took part in an internship last year to better her career experience.
“I really enjoyed my internship at Geisinger Rehab Hospital, it was a great way to have a first-hand perspective of my future career and affirmed my choice to pursue occupational therapy,” says Adams.
By taking part in an internship, students can not only gain experience, but also credits for the internship. Students can gain three credits for 150 hours and six credits for 200 hours for the semester of interning. Internships work just like a class; you earn credits and get a grade, with the added bonus of first hand familiarity.
Meeting to find an internship however is a team effort. It is not a placement thing; it is students going out and seeking where they want to be based on their career interests. ***Confused about what this means? Placement thing?***
“Resumes get you in the door, experience and good interviews get you hired,” Castano said. “We prepare you for both.”