2 2 – MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR COLLEGE EXPERIENCE MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR COLLEGE EXPERIENCE 113 Stratton Administration Center www.kutztown.edu/careercenter careerhelp@kutztown.edu 610.683.4067 A member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education KU Career Development Center The KU CDC is dedicated to the success of all students and alumni by providing comprehensive services and resources including: Career and Major Exploration Career Counseling/Coaching Major and Career Information Decision-Making Assistance Career and Personality Assessments Externship/Job Shadowing Assistance Employer Panels and Networking Sessions Graduate School Preparation Gradute School Planning Graduate School Fair Practice Tests for GRE, GMAT, DAT, LSAT and MCAT Personal Statement Review Service Internship and Job Search Resume and Cover Letter Writing & Review Service Interviewing Skill Development Mock (Practice) Interview Program On-Campus Interviewing Program Internship and Job Search Strategies Internship and Job Database (KUCN) Job and Internship Fairs Workplace Preparation Workplace Etiquette Dining Etiquette HR and Benefits (Day One on the Job) Managing Finances (Year One on the Job) Dedicated Staff • Career Library • Interactive Website • Major Discovery and Guidebook Series KU Career Network (KUCN) KU Career Network is the primary online resource for preparing and connecting students and alumni with employers. (Login at www.kutztown.edu/careercenter) The following services and resources are available through KUCN: •­Internship and job postings •­Employer profiles •­Events and workshops •­­Career fairs •­Mock/practice interviews •­Career videos and resources WELCOME TO THE KUTZTOWN UNIVERSITY CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTER This Guidebook provides strategies and tips for making the most of your college experience. Start With the End in Mind ____________________________________________________ 2 Blueprint for Success _________________________________________________________ 3 Commit to Your Major ________________________________________________________ 3 Take an Interest in Your Career Field ____________________________________________ 5 Gain Experience in Your Field __________________________________________________ 10 Build a Professional Image ____________________________________________________ 12 Create a Personal Action Plan __________________________________________________ 14 -1- Start with the End In Mind Experts who study hiring trends find that most employers, regardless of size or type of industry, look for the same basic skills when hiring new employees. These skills include: Communication (verbal, written, and listening) Teamwork Leadership Computer/Technical Interpersonal Personal Traits – - initiative and motivation - flexibility in handling change and ambiguity - hard-working (work ethic) and reliability - honesty and integrity - ability to plan and organize multiple tasks - ability to provide customer service Critical Thinking/Problem Solving Intelligence and Common Sense Willingness to Learn Work-Related Experiences ~ adapted from the Recruiting Trends Report, Collegiate Employment Research Institute at Michigan State University Now that you know what employers are looking for in new hires, you can develop a plan to obtain these skills while you are still in college. You will gain knowledge and competence in many of these critical areas through your courses; however, during your job search it will be essential for you to demonstrate these skills and personal traits through your experiences both inside and outside the classroom. This guidebook will provide specific strategies for gaining the skills and experience employers want most! -2- Blueprint for Success The four elements listed below are the foundation of a successful job search for a college graduate. These elements, which need to be developed over time, provide opportunities for you to cultivate the skills and qualities and gain the experiences that employers want most in new hires. 1. Commit to your major 2. Take an interest in your career field 3. Gain experience in your field 4. Build a professional image 1. Commit to Your Major The underpinning of a successful professional job search and career is commitment to your major and academic discipline. Employers want to hire graduates who are interested, knowledgeable, and competent in their field of study. Your level of commitment is reflected in your academic performance, and your choice of electives. Employers will view your academic record as an indicator of your intelligence, willingness to learn, and work ethic. Reflect on your choice of major. Is it a good fit for you? Are you interested and excited about the field of study? If you are uncertain about your choice, make an appointment with the Career Development Center. Choosing a major is a process that involves assessing your interests, values, and abilities and researching and evaluating your options. Because it takes some time to work through the steps it is important to start this process as soon as possible. Meet with your faculty advisor to select courses. Each semester you have the opportunity to discuss your course selections with your faculty advisor. Prepare for your advising session by writing down questions you may have. Be sure to keep your advisor apprised of your career interests and goals. Ask for advice about electives and sequencing of your course selections. Remember that carefully chosen courses may help you demonstrate your willingness to learn and enthusiasm for your field to potential employers. -3- Consider adding an academic minor. A minor is an academic program that is less comprehensive than a major and usually requires about 18-21 credits. A minor may be chosen to complement your major. For example, a criminal justice major might complete a minor in psychology or a political science student might complete a minor in speech communication. You can also choose a minor that may not necessarily relate directly to your major but is of personal interest. For example, a marine science major may complete a music minor, or a computer science major may complete a women’s studies minor. If you are interested in adding a minor, consult with your faculty advisor. KU Minors Advertising Anthropology Art History Biochemistry Biology Chemistry Communications Studies Computer Science/Info. Technology Computer Science/Software Development Crafts Criminal Justice Economics Electronic Media Geography Geography: Environmental Option Geography: Planning Option Geology German Communication & Culture History Industrial-Organizational Psychology International Studies Literature Marine Science Mathematics Multicultural Studies Music PA German Studies Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Public Administration Public Relations Social Work Sociology Spanish Women’s Studies Writing Attend and actively participate in your classes. Research shows a strong positive correlation between class attendance and grades. Your grades and corresponding GPA are an indication to potential employers and graduate/professional schools of your ability to learn and master new material. By attending class you have the opportunity to participate in discussions, learn new material and perspectives not included in the textbook, and stay apprised of any changes in the course syllabus. Going to class regularly is a discipline. It demonstrates your work ethic and reliability. Start this practice now. Go to bed earlier; get a new alarm clock, or an accountability partner. Do whatever you need to do to make sure you get to all of your classes. -4- Talk to your professors. Teaching is only part of what your professors do in a week. Many are involved in scholarly research, write journal articles and manuscripts, actively participate in professional associations, and serve on committees and/or policy making bodies related to their discipline. They have many contacts including alumni who work in the discipline. Professors truly are a wealth of information. Learn when your professor has office hours and stop in to introduce yourself. You may find that you have more in common than simply a class on your schedule. Professors lead regular lives and enjoy sports, fitness, music, movies, politics, and other interests. When you are applying for internships, scholarships, graduate/professional school, or jobs you will need to have letters of reference from your professors. The best references will come from professors who know you as a person, not just as a member of a particular class. Seek help if you are experiencing difficulties or are struggling with personal concerns. Success in college requires the ability to accurately and realistically monitor your academic progress and take steps to improve your standing when necessary. If you are experiencing difficulties seek help immediately. You have a better chance to improve your situation if you get help early in the semester. 2. Take an Interest in Your Career Field Taking an interest in your career field is the best way to demonstrate your initiative and enthusiasm for your field of study and your willingness to learn. This also presents opportunities for developing/enhancing your communication, interpersonal, teamwork, and leadership skills. Join a major-related club or organization. Clubs and organizations related to your major provide opportunities for you to explore career options and network with professionals through guest speakers, panel discussions, and site visits. You will also have the opportunity to build relationships with faculty members and other students who may eventually be your professional colleagues. On the next page you will find a sampling of the major/department related clubs and organizations. Visit http://kunited.kutztown.edu for a complete, up-to-date list of active organizations. -5- Sampling of KU Clubs and Organizations Academic-Department Academic-Professional Accounting Club Anthropology Club Biology-Life Sciences Club Botany Club Criminal Justice Association Digital Media Club Economics Club English Club Environmental Action Club Herpetology Club History Club Industrial/Organization Psychology Club International Business Club Marine Science Club Math Club Philosophy Club Psychology Club Social Welfare Club Sociology Club Sport Leisure & Athletic Management Technology Association American Advertising Federation American Marketing Association Assoc. for Childhood Educ. International Assoc. of Information Tech. Professionals Communication Career Club Council for Exceptional Children Finance Club Geographical Society Geology Club Health Careers Society Mathematical Association of America Mobile App. Developer Club Mock Trial Club National Art Educ. Association National Assoc. for the Educ. of Young Children National Broadcasting Society National Council Teachers of Mathematics Political Science Club Pre-Law/Paralegal Club Public Relations Student Society of America Society for Human Resource Management Society for the Advancement of Mgmt. Society of Physics Students Student Affiliates of the Amer. Chemical Society Student PA State Education Association Students in Free Enterprise Academic-Honor Alpha Beta Alpha Alpha Kappa Delta Alpha Phi Sigma Alpha Psi Omega Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society Delta Alpha Pi Epsilon Sigma Alpha Honors Club Kappa Delta Pi Kappa Kappa Psi Lambda Pi Eta Phi Alpha Honor Society Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Phi Sigma Pi Pi Sigma Alpha Psi Chi Sigma Alpha Iota Sigma Alpha Pi/National Society of Leadership and Success Sigma Delta Pi Sigma Tau Delta Tau Beta Sigma Campus Media & Publications Essence Literary and Fine Arts Magazine Keystonia KUR Newsbreak Nexus Magazine Shoofly The Keystone Visual Arts American Institute of Graphic Arts Anime Club Art Club Clay Club Contemporary Crafts Club Eckhaus Film Club Photography -6- Seek out opportunities to develop leadership skills. Campus clubs and organizations provide a great opportunity for developing necessary leadership skills. Whether you serve as a committee member or an officer, you can enhance your skills and employability by taking an active role. Not sure you have what it takes to be a leader? Apply to participate in LinKU (Leaders in Kutztown University). LinKU is a program offered each year by the Student Involvement Services to help students to develop and enhance their leadership abilities. For more information visit http://kunited.kutztown.edu. Stay up-to-date with news and research in your career field by reading professional journals and other articles. Understanding trends, challenges, and changes in your field will help you to fully prepare for entrance into the profession. Professional journals include articles, research, and book reviews that are written by scholars in academic or professional fields. Journals are published at periodic intervals and are generally available in print or electronic format. Rohrbach Library subscribes to a wide variety of journals. See a librarian for more information on accessing professional journals. Conduct informational interviews with professionals working in the field. One great way to learn more about careers and opportunities is to talk directly with someone already in the field. Most professionals are very happy to share their knowledge and expertise about their work and may be able to provide you with some specific advice for entering the field. Informational interviews are a great way to expand your professional network. Pick-up or download the Informational Interviewing Guide. This “how-to” guide will help you plan for and arrange informational interviews. Available in the CDC or at www.kutztown.edu/careercenter. Join a professional organization as a student member. Professional associations are a great resource for students. They provide publications, professional conferences, networking opportunities, career and internship resources, and much more. Joining a professional organization shows employers you are truly interested in becoming involved in that profession. Most professional associations offer student membership at a reduced rate. A list of selected professional organizations are listed on the next several pages. -7- Sampling of Professional Associations Anthropology/Criminal Justice Education/Library Science American Anthropological Association www.aaanet.org National Assoc. of Special Educ. Teachers www.naset.org American Society of Criminology www.asc41.com National Assoc. for the Education of Young Children www.naeyc.org Society for American Archaeology www.saa.org National Education Association www.nea.org Society for Applied Anthropology www.sfaa.net English/Electronic Media/Communications Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences www.acjs.org American Federation of Teachers www.aft.org American Society of Journalists & Authors www.asja.org Art-Related Fields American Craft Council www.craftcouncil.org American Society of Magazine Writers www.magazine.org/asme Craft and Hobby Association www.craftandhobby.org International Association of Business Communicators www.iabc.com National Art Education Association www.naea-reston.org International Radio & Television Society www.irts.org Society of American Graphic Artists www.sagaprints.org National Communication Association www.natcom.org Society of Arts and Crafts www.societyofcrafts.org National Council for Teachers of English www.ncte.org Business/Sports Management Public Relations Society of America www.prsa.org American Accounting Association http://aaahq.org Society of Broadcast Engineers www.sbe.org American Bankers Association www.aba.com History/Political Science/Public Adm. American Finance Association www.afajof.org American Association of Museums www.aam-us.org American Management Association www.amanet.org American Historical Association www.historians.org American Marketing Association www.marketingpower.com American Political Science Association www.apsanet.org American Small Business Association www.asbaonline.org American Society for Public Administration www.aspanet.org Financial Managers Association www.fma.org National Council on Public History http://ncph.org National Association for Sport & Physical Education http://www.aahperd.org/naspe Organization of American Historians www.oah.org North American Society for Sport Management www.nassm.com The American Acad. Of Political & Social Science www.aapss.org -8- Modern Language Science, Technology and Mathematics American Council on Teaching of Foreign Languages www.actfl.org American Association for the Advancement of Science www.aaas.org American Translators Association www.atanet.org American Chemical Society www.acs.org Modern Language Association www.mla.org American Computer Scientists Association www.acsa2000.net National Association for Bilingual Education www.nabe.org American Congress on Surveying and Mapping www.acsm.net Music American Engineering Association www.aea.org American Federation of Musicians www.afm.org American Institute of Biological Sciences www.aibs.org National Music Publishers’ Association www.nmpa.org American Institute of Physics www.aip.org Theatre Musicians Association www.afm-tma.org American Mathematical Society www.ams.org The National Association for Music Education www.menc.org Geological Society of America www.geosociety.org Philosophy American Philosophical Association www.apaonline.org Geospatial Info & Technology Association www.gita.org Association for the Sociology of Religion www.sociologyofreligion.com Mathematical Association of America www.maa.org The Society for the Advancement of American Philosophy www.american-philosophy.org National Assoc. of Environmental Professionals www.naep.org Psychology, Sociology, Social Work NOAA www.noaa.gov American Psychological Association www.apa.org Society for Industrial & Applied Mathematics www.siam.org American Sociological Association www.asanet.org The American Geographical Society www.amergeog.org Assoc. for Community Org. & Social Administration www.acosa.org The Oceanography Society www.tos.org Association for Psychological Science www.psychologicalscience.org The Society for Ocean Sciences www.societyoceansciences.org Clinical Social Work Federation www.clinicalsocialworkassociation.org/ Urban and Regional Information Systems Association www.urisa.org Society for Industrial & Organizational Psychology www.siop.org -9- 3. Gain Experience in Your Field Work-related experience is an essential part of your career development. Employers hire graduates who not only have the necessary educational background but also have experience applying that knowledge to real life situations. Through these hands-on experiences you will not only have a chance to demonstrate your critical thinking and problem solving skills, but also your communication/interpersonal skills, ability to adapt to and handle change and new situations, and your ability to plan and organize your time. There are several ways to get the experience you need. Participate in volunteer work. Even if you have only an hour or two a week, volunteering will provide an opportunity for you to develop new skills, apply existing skills to real-life settings, explore career options, and make professional contacts. Before pursuing a volunteer experience, think about the type of volunteer experience you would like to have. If you are interested in teaching, look for opportunities with children. If you are interested in writing, look for opportunities to write or edit. Commit to a shortterm experience before taking on a long-term commitment. Here are several resources for finding volunteer opportunities: 1. KU Community Outreach Center- This is the hub for KU student-led community service and social advocacy work. The center promotes mutually beneficial collaborations between the university and the Lehigh/Berks county communities and beyond. The Community Outreach Center is located in 281 MSU. 2. Search websites dedicated to helping individuals connect with volunteer opportunities. Here are just a few of those sites. www.VolunteerMatch.org www.Idealist.org www.BerksWorks.org www.volunteerlv.org There are also organizations that coordinate international volunteer experiences. If you are interested in an international experience, it is important that you research the organization thoroughly and understand both the financial and time commitment required. The following programs are members of the International Volunteer Programs Association (IVPA). Amigos de las Americas- www.amigoslink.org Cross-Cultural Solutions- www.crossculturalsolutions.org Global Service Corps- www.globalservicecorps.org Habitat for Humanity- www.habitat.org Projects Abroad- www.projects-abroad.org ProWorld- www.proworldvolunteers.org Service for Peace- www.serviceforpeace.org -10- 3. Check websites for specific organizations/causes with which you are interested in volunteering. Here are some examples. Advocacy Organizations Animal Rescue/Advocacy Programs Community Athletic Leagues Community Centers Community Mental Health Centers Corrections Facilities Day Care Centers/ Nursery Schools Early Intervention Centers/Head Start Employee Assistance Programs Environmental Advocacy Programs Family Service Centers Faith-related Organizations Foster Care Agencies Hospitals and Health Care Facilities Nursing Homes/Assisted Living Philanthropies Public and Private High Schools Public Interest Groups Senior Citizen Centers Social Service Agencies Treatment Centers Victim Services Zoos and Aquaria 4. Network! Talk with everyone you know about the type of volunteer work you would like to do. The more people you speak with the greater your chance of finding the right opportunity for you. So, talk to: CDC staff Professors Parents Friends of your parents Parents of your friends Former teachers Coaches/Advisors Fellow students/classmates Relatives (Aunts/Uncles/Cousins) Neighbors Seek part-time/seasonal employment related to your field of study or career aspirations. While working at the beach or an amusement park may be fun, you need to consider whether it is helping you build the skills, experience, and professional network needed for your future professional job search. You don’t need to travel far to get great experience. The university hires many students in positions that relate to specific majors and career fields including tour guides, community assistants, conference assistants, department designers, photographers, and Connections Facilitators just to name a few. Here are some tips to get you started: 1. For on-and off-campus positions visit https://stuapp.kutztown.edu. 2. KUCN (KU Career Network) find link at www.kutztown.edu/careercenter. for positions listed with the Career Development Center and other Pennsylvania State Universities. 3. Attend job fairs (held each semester at KU). 4. Visit websites of specific employers for openings and application procedures. -11- 5. Network (see page 11). 6. Visit the Career Development Center for assistance with resumes, cover letters, applications and interviewing skills. For summer employment, start early and utilize both winter and spring breaks to make contact with employers and submit applications. Many employers finish their summer hiring in early spring. Complete an internship (or two). Internships are structured learning experiences that last for several weeks up to a year or beyond. While your academic department determines the timeframe and process for credit-bearing internships, you can arrange a non-credit bearing/voluntary internship directly with an employer. Please pick-up or download the Getting Internship & Related Experience Guidebook. This “how-to guide” will help you plan for and arrange an internship experience. Available in the CDC or at www.kutztown.edu/careercenter. 4. Build a Professional Image A professional image is the collection of qualities and characteristics that influence the opinions of others. Your success in the college, graduate school, and the job market is dependent on your ability to present an image that communicates confidence and demonstrates positive workplace skills. Develop and maintain good self-management skills. Productive students make productive employees, and managing yourself and your emotions are the key. Here are some ways to improve your self-management skills. 1. Manage your stress. Find positive outlets for stress through exercise, mediation/yoga, or creative activities such as drawing, playing/listening to music, or writing/journaling. Discover which healthy activities help you de-stress and actively engage in them. 2. Manage your time well. Arrive at class, work, appointments, and activities on-time and fully prepared. 3. Maintain a healthy body. When you take care of your physical and emotional needs you are stronger, more resilient, and better prepared to face the challenges of each day. Make sure you exercise every day, make healthy food choices, avoid alcohol and drugs, and get plenty of sleep. Pay attention to your language and work to eliminate slang and improper grammar. Pay attention to your written communications and work to eliminate “text talk” abbreviations, and slang. Write in full sentences, not phrases. Also listen to your speech and adopt a more professional vocabulary. Replace the words like “yeah” with “yes” and eliminate filler words such as “like” and “uh” from your speech. -12- Maintain a positive online image. Your online persona will shape others’ opinions and perceptions of you both personally and professionally. Prospective employers may search Facebook profiles, blogs, and other sites when conducting their background check. Regularly review your online profile(s) and delete posts and/or photos that are inappropriate. Always use discretion when posting comments and photos and ask your friends to do the same! Create a resume. A resume is a summary of your accomplishments, education, skills, and experience. It is an advertisement that allows you to effectively market yourself. Even though you may not be graduating for a while, resumes are often needed when applying for on-campus employment, volunteer work, summer and seasonal employment, job shadowing experiences, scholarships, and internships. You can get started on your resume by picking up or downloading the Resume, Cover Letter, and Correspondence Guidebook. This “how-to” guide will help you develop your marketing and professional communications package. Available in the CDC or at www.kutztown.edu/careercenter. Add professional clothing to your wardrobe. You should have at least one professional outfit at KU at all times for special events especially those that involve faculty and employers. As you progress toward your junior year, add additional pieces to your professional wardrobe so you have the attire necessary for an internship or professional position. For Women: Professional attire is a well-fitted two-piece suit (pants or skirt) in a dark or neutral shade such as black, navy, brown or gray; a blouse; plain-style, non-patterned hosiery; and basic dark closed-toe and heel flats or low pumps. For Men: Professional attire is a well-fitted two-piece suit in navy, gray, or black (pinstripe or solid) or a navy blazer with gray dress slacks; white or light colored dress shirt; tie with an understated pattern that complements the color of your suit and shirt; dark socks; laceup or slip-on dress shoes in black or brown; and a matching belt. Develop/enhance your public speaking skills. If you are a good public speaker work to be a great one. If you are tentative about public speaking, work to be more confident. These skills are important in most employment settings and certainly are an asset when marketing yourself to employers. Put yourself in the position to practice speaking publicly through courses, campus activities, work, and volunteer experiences. Remember, practice creates confidence. Attend Career Development Center events each semester. Knowledge of the job/internship search process, workplace etiquette, and graduate school preparation will help you to prepare and present yourself as a confident and professional candidate for employment and graduate school. See the full schedule of events on the Career Development website at www.kutztown.edu/careercenter. -13- Create a Personal Action Plan Use the suggestions in this guide to create an action plan for making the most of your college experience. 1. List one goal/action you can complete in the next 7 days. 2. List one goal/action you can complete by the end of the semester. 3. List one goal/action you can complete by the end of the academic or calendar year. Create an action plan each year to maximize your college experience! -14- The Career Development Center services and resources are designed to empower you in finding your career path and creating effective career development plans. It is imperative that you work on acquiring and improving these skills throughout your college experience to maximize your opportunity for SUCCESS!!! Please invest in yourself and your future by utilizing your Career Center! 113 Stratton Administration Center Kutztown, PA 19530 610.683.4067 careerhelp@kutztown.edu www.kutztown.edu/careercenter -15- NOTES -15- KUTZTOWN UNIVERSITY CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTER Mission Statement The Career Development Center offers a comprehensive array of programs and services which support the mission and advancement of Kutztown University and the success of its graduates. Programs and services support and facilitate career development (self-assessment, exploration & placement) for all students and empower members of the Kutztown University community to choose and attain personally rewarding careers. Our services are sensitive to the needs of students with disabilites as well as to students from diverse backgrounds and/or sexual orientations. Career development services are presented in a variety of formats and in an environment that is supportive and understanding of each student’s unique needs. The Career Development Center is committed to the success of all students. Goals The goals of the career planning process are to: • Think in terms of functional responsibilities rather than merely linking major to job • Acquire and develop the skills necessary to become informed career decision makers • Develop the potential of becoming responsible managers of your own career Ethical Standards The Career Development Center at Kutztown University supports, adheres to, and complies with the Principles for Professional Conduct for Career Services & Employment Professionals, as defined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Complete information regarding these Principles and Standards can be found at the following website http://www.naceweb.org/principles/principl.html. Non-Discrimination Policy Statement Kutztown University is committed to Affirmative Action, equal employment and educational opportunity in compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246, the Educational Amendments under Title XI of 1972, Sections 503/504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, The Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Asst. Act of 1974, The Age Discrimination Act as amended, the Pennsylvania Veterans Preference Act, the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and its amendments. Kutztown University provides reasonable access to facilities and programs. Please address Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity inquiries to the Social Equity Office at (610) 683-­4700. For questions about access or accommodations, call the Disability Services Office at (610) 683-­4108. The Career Development Center will not “get you a job,” but it will provide an environment in which students and career opportunities can find each other. KU Career Development Center 113 Stratton Administration Center www.kutztown.edu/careercenter careerhelp@kutztown.edu 610-683-4067 GUIDEBOOK SERIES 113 Stratton Administration Center www.kutztown.edu/careercenter careerhelp@kutztown.edu 610.683.4067 1. Choosing a Major 2. Making the Most of Your College Experience 3. Writing Resumes, Cover Letters, & Other Correspondence 4. Getting Internships & Related Experience 5. Conducting a Job Search 6. Interviewing Successfully 7. Applying to Graduate & Professional Schools 8. Conducting a Job Search in Education A member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education