Education At Work

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Connecting Education Funding to Career Outcomes

Connecting Education Funding to Career Outcomes Written by Jane Swift, CEO of Education at Work As the daughter of a teacher, I was born with the “education bug.” When I shipped off to a private competitive college, I became an education equity warrior having discovered I was nowhere near as well prepared as my peers from elite private schools or wealthier Massachusetts public schools. Education excellence was an area of intense focus of my tenures as a state Senator and governor of Massachusetts.  One policy area that was just emerging during my tenure as Governor was expanding access to programs that connected education and work—initiatives like early college. Coming from a family of plumbers and with my mom’s experience at what was then called State Teachers College of North Adams, I was drawn to the partnerships between employers and colleges focused on career outcomes. I saw firsthand how aligning learning with real career opportunities could change lives and strengthen communities across the Commonwealth. Thanks to Pell Grants and Federal Work-Study, I was able to attend and graduate from a prestigious liberal arts college in New England. Those federal programs didn’t just make college possible; they gave me purpose and direction, linking what I was learning in the classroom to the dignity and opportunity of work. After completing an internship in the Massachusetts Senate, a body I would be elected to a few years later, I shared real-world examples in my Administration and Public Policy class at Trinity College That’s why I believe so strongly that public funding must do more than expand access to a system of higher education that too often falls short. It must create real opportunity by helping learners build careers, increase their earning potential, and achieve lasting economic mobility.  It was encouraging to see that in late September, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) issued two notices on how in upcoming competitive grant cycles it will prioritize applications that advance “Meaningful Learning Opportunities” and “Career Pathways and Workforce Readiness.” Using Grant Funding to Incentivize Stronger Education and Career Pathways In both notices, ED is proposing to give preference to grant applicants that support workforce development programs that align with state priorities, promote greater awareness of the range of postsecondary educational and career options, and/or provide career-connected learning through work-based learning or other pathways. This policy shift reflects a growing urgency among state and federal policymakers to strengthen the connection between education and employment—a connection that has always existed for families like mine, but one that has been missing until now in programs receiving federal funds. Today, 52% of college graduates are underemployed a year after graduation, and the unemployment rate for recent college grads (4.8% as of June) is nearly a point higher than the national average for all workers. This relative lack of good job outcomes for recent college graduates has eroded the public’s confidence in higher education’s promise as the surest route to opportunity, particularly among working adults, learners pursuing nontraditional paths, and students like me who rely on financial aid and work to pay for college.  Even as ED indicates its preference for programs that align education and work, a single grant cycle by itself won’t lead to sustained improvements. What’s needed to turn the tide are new programs with additional and ongoing federal support. The most important thing to watch will be the actual grants that ED awards and how states partner with organizations to drive increased access to work-based learning, apprenticeships, and the full range of pathways leading to economic independence and a fulfilling career. Why This Matters We can’t afford to let this moment pass. The economy is changing rapidly, and education must change with it. We need to design programs that prepare students not just for their first job, but for a lifetime of advancement. To do that, we need to align public investment with economic development, ensuring that opportunity is created by design—not by geography or by luck. Just as improving K-12 excellence enabled broader access to postsecondary schools, higher education  must expand access to better career outcomes. We must build a system that honors multiple pathways to success—one where education and employment are seamlessly connected, and where learners of every age and background are able to use the skills they gain to find careers that allow them to thrive. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

Why the Off-Season Is the Best Time to Get Hired: Inside E@W’s Summer Recruitment Cycle

Why the Off-Season Is the Best Time to Get Hired Inside Education at Work’s Summer Recruitment Cycle While most students wait until fall to start job hunting, the smartest ones get ahead during the summer. At Education at Work, our off-season recruitment cycle helps students secure meaningful, flexible roles before classes are even in session. When it comes to landing a meaningful, flexible job during college, most students don’t think about applying in the middle of summer. But here’s the truth: the off-season is the best time to get hired. At Education at Work (E@W), we’re already thinking ahead to the fall semester and upcoming tax season, so summer is when we actively build our talent pipeline. That means students who apply now are first in line for some of the most in-demand, career-building roles available. Plan Now, Win Later: Why Summer Recruiting Gives You the Edge Unlike last-minute hiring surges that happen during the first few weeks of a new semester, E@W’s summer recruitment cycle allows students to: Apply early and avoid the rush Secure roles in advance before classes begin Complete onboarding and training at their own pace Step into the semester with confidence, knowing they already have a flexible, tuition-supported job in place Whether it’s a role supporting customers at Fidelity, DFS, or Intuit or gaining hands-on tech and service experience, these positions don’t just fill—they fill fast. And students who start early stand out. “Some of our most successful E@W students started with us during the summer. They applied early, got one-on-one support, and were fully trained before the fall rush. By the time the busy season hit, they were already leading the way. Summer is more than a great time to apply—it’s your chance to get ahead and grow with E@W from the start.” – Nalleli Aguilera, Recruitment Supervisor A Head Start on Hiring: Summer Tax Academy at E@W At the heart of our summer programming is E@W’s Summer Tax Academy, a specialized training series designed to help students gain the qualifications needed to support Intuit customers during the upcoming tax season. Through this program, students gain hands-on exposure to the tax industry while developing critical problem-solving, communication, and technical skills that employers value. And it’s not just about knowledge—it’s about opportunity. Students who complete the Tax Academy are well-positioned to work for E@W as a tax specialist for Intuit during the academic year. These roles are more than jobs—they are career pathways with purpose, and they come with flexible hours and tuition assistance to support students both financially and professionally. “E@W’s tremendous tax academy pass and success rate is rooted in more than delivering training; it’s about building a workforce of students that truly represents Intuit’s brand. Through close collaboration and aligned goals, we’ve transformed training into a strategic advantage. Together with Intuit, we’ve created a learning experience that not only prepares students to perform but empowers them to exceed expectations.” – Demetria Ingram, VP, Job Delivery Training & Quality Inside E@W’s Summer Recruitment Cycle Our summer recruitment is intentional and strategic. We know students’ schedules vary, so we keep the process efficient and student-centered. Here’s what it typically includes: Open Roles Posted – We identify and post part-time, remote-eligible, and skill-building roles for the upcoming semester or tax season. Applications Reviewed Weekly – Our team evaluates applications on a rolling basis to give early applicants a leg up. Interviews & Offers – Qualified students are interviewed virtually, with many receiving offers well before school resumes. Optional Summer Training – For programs like our Summer Tax Academy, accepted students can begin building skills even before the job begins. “Summer is actually one of the best times to get hired at E@W. Things are a little quieter, so we can really focus on each applicant, give them the support they need, and get them fully trained before the busy season starts. If you’re looking to stand out and get ahead, this is the perfect time to join us.” – E@W Recruiter For Campus Partners: Now Is the Time to Promote Career advisors, academic coaches, and university partners, summer is a prime time to encourage your students to act. When students wait until the fall semester to look for jobs, opportunities are often limited. By contrast, E@W’s summer recruitment cycle: Helps students prepare for the school year financially Supports academic success with pre-approved, flexible work schedules Aligns with career readiness and real-world learning goals Reduces stress during already-busy back-to-school transitions Whether you’re running summer orientation, advising sessions, or bridge programs, promoting E@W roles now can set students up for success in the year ahead. “At ASU Career Services, we understand the value of early, hands-on experience in shaping students’ career trajectories. Summer hiring opportunities through Education at Work provide our students with more than just part-time jobs; they offer a direct pathway to develop marketable skills, earn a steady paycheck, and gain professional exposure that complements their academic goals. It’s the kind of partnership that supports our mission to empower students for career success well beyond graduation.” – Blake Burford, ASU Career Services E@W Roles Offer More Than Just a Paycheck All E@W roles include:✅ Flexible part-time hours built around your class schedule✅ Real-world experience with major companies like Intuit✅ Competitive wages and tuition assistance✅ Professional mentoring and durable skill development✅ A supportive, student-first culture that grows with you Don’t Wait for the Semester to Start, Apply Now! It’s easy to put off job hunting until the first week of classes, but by then, many of the best opportunities are gone. Apply now to secure a role that helps you build your career, support your tuition, and start your semester strong. Students: Summer Tax Academy Current Job Openings Getting ahead starts with thinking ahead. E@W’s summer recruitment cycle gives students a smart, strategic advantage, not just for the semester, but for their future. Don’t sleep on summer, it could be your strongest season yet. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

Reimagining the Future of Work: Jane Swift Joins Panel Discussion at JFF Horizons 2025

Reimagining the Future of Work Jane Swift Joins Panel Discussion at JFF Horizons 2025 At the 2025 JFF Horizons conference, Education at Work President Jane Swift joined a dynamic panel to discuss how Gen Z is reshaping the future of work. The conversation explored how skills-first learning, flexible pathways, and real-world experience are redefining the value of a college degree. Swift shared how Education at Work is helping lead this shift by connecting students to purpose-driven, paid work experiences that prepare them for long-term success. At this year’s Horizons, a national education and workforce summit organized by Jobs for the Future, Education at Work President and former Massachusetts Governor Jane Swift took the stage alongside leading voices in talent engagement and workforce development to explore the evolving value of a college degree in a skills-first world. Held in New Orleans, the panel discussion—“Gen Z Career Paths: Renewing the Degree’s Value in a Skills-Driven World”— was a powerful cross-sector dialogue on how to empower Gen Z with flexible, purpose-driven pathways to quality jobs. Moderated by The Wall Street Journal economics reporter Rachel Wolfe, the conversation featured Jane Swift, Valerie Capers Workman (Chief Talent Engagement Officer at Handshake), and Kevin Stump, Ed.D. (Vice President of Impact at Education Design Lab). The discussion centered around how Gen Z is reshaping traditional career trajectories and demanding new models of education and employment that emphasize skills over credentials, experience over theory, and purpose over prestige. Swift, drawing from her leadership at Education at Work, emphasized the urgent need to bridge the gap between higher education and workforce demands through real-world, paid work experiences that build both soft and technical skills. She spoke passionately about the transformative power of experiential learning and the role of institutions like E@W in creating scalable, inclusive talent pipelines for employers -particularly those looking to reach new, diverse, tech-savvy talent. Panelists also explored the rising popularity of career and technical education, the shifting influence of AI on the job market, and the importance of preparing students—especially young men—for meaningful, future-ready careers. When asked what single change she hopes to see in the next decade, Swift called for a radical rethinking of the student-employer relationship, where work-based learning becomes the norm rather than the exception. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

Top 5 Durable Skills to Master Before Graduating

Top 5 Durable Skills to Master Before Graduating Skills That Make You Stand Out—Now and in the Future Durable skills are essential, long-lasting abilities that remain valuable regardless of industry or role. Unlike technical skills, which can quickly become outdated, durable skills empower recent graduates to excel across various fields and adapt to the evolving demands of the workplace. At Education at Work (E@W), we understand the power of durable skills and offer hands-on experiences to help students strengthen them for success. Graduating from college marks an exciting new beginning, yet stepping into the workforce can feel challenging. To help ease this transition, mastering durable skills is essential. Unlike technical skills, these foundational abilities—like communication, problem-solving, and adaptability—remain valuable throughout one’s career, making them crucial for students to develop before graduation. Mastering these skills helps individuals stand out to employers, thrive in collaborative settings, and navigate changes in technology and organizational culture, setting them up for long-term success and career growth. 1. Communication Skills: Effective communication is the foundation of career success, ensuring ideas are conveyed respectfully and efficiently. In roles at E@W, students gain real-life communication experience by working directly with peers, clients, and leadership teams. Tips to Develop: Practice active listening, engage in public speaking, and seek opportunities to write clearly and concisely. These skills improve through repetition, and at E@W, regular feedback helps students refine their approach, whether speaking with team members or addressing client needs. Application in Roles: Clear communication is essential in customer service and project coordination roles. At E@W, students benefit from applying these skills in various professional settings, boosting confidence, and preparing for roles where strong communication can set them apart. 2. Problem-Solving Abilities: Problem-solving skills enable employees to tackle challenges confidently. At E@W, students face complex, real-world scenarios that challenge their ability to think critically and innovate. Tips to Develop: Approach problems by identifying root causes and brainstorming solutions. Practice through case studies or join campus organizations that test analytical thinking. Application in Roles: Problem-solving is beneficial in fields ranging from project management to analytics. Working with E@W clients, students learn to analyze issues, propose solutions, and refine their methods, gaining the ability to think independently. 3. Critical Thinking: Critical thinking helps evaluate information objectively, making it easier to make informed decisions. EAW emphasizes critical thinking, as students must determine diverse perspectives to support our clients and teams effectively. Tips to Develop: Read widely, practice questioning assumptions, and participate in debates or discussions, encouraging thoughtful analysis. Application in Roles: This skill is valuable in customer service, data analysis, and management roles. At E@W, students learn to view situations from multiple angles, enhancing their ability to analyze data, solve issues, and think strategically. 4. Adaptability: In a fast-changing job market, adaptability is essential for career resilience. E@W’s work environment encourages students to be flexible and open to learning new things, preparing them for roles where change is constant. Tips to Develop: Embrace growth opportunities, set flexible goals, and remain open to learning new technologies or processes. Application in Roles: Adaptability is especially useful in the tech, healthcare, and education industries. At E@W, students experience different projects and client needs, helping them grow comfortable with evolving tasks and systems. 5. Teamwork and Collaboration: Being an effective team player is a crucial skill that fosters innovation and productivity. At E@W, students work on collaborative projects that simulate real-world team dynamics, preparing them for careers that require strong interpersonal skills. Tips to Develop: Practice active listening, share constructive feedback, and work toward common goals. Team sports or group projects can be great for building these skills. Application in Roles: From entry-level to leadership positions, teamwork skills are essential. At EAW, students experience collaborative work, from tackling tasks with peers to working on cross-functional teams, enhancing their ability to contribute meaningfully in a professional setting. Conclusion: Lifelong Learning at Education at Work The ability to master these durable skills sets students on a path toward a successful and fulfilling career. At Education at Work, our unique environment nurtures these skills, providing students real-world challenges, client-facing responsibilities, and team-based projects. By joining E@W, students gain more than just work experience—they build a skill set that supports their long-term success. Ready to develop these skills and kickstart your career? Check out our current positions and join a team that invests in your future! Learn More Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

Supporting Working College Students: Bridging the Gap Between Earning and Learning

Supporting Working College Students: Bridging the Gap Between Earning and Learning Creating Pathways, Not Pitfalls, for Working Students College students across the U.S. increasingly balance academics with jobs, often out of necessity rather than choice. This blog explores how Education at Work, alongside research from the AAUP, is helping transform college employment into an opportunity for growth rather than a barrier to success. For millions of students across the country, the college experience isn’t just about lectures, labs, or late-night study sessions—it also includes clocking into a job, balancing shifts, and navigating the dual responsibilities of work and school. At Education at Work, we see firsthand the determination of these students, many of whom juggle part-time or even full-time jobs while pursuing their degrees. But while their grit is inspiring, the reality behind working during college is more complex—and often, inequitable. A report, reviewing the research on students and work by Laura W. Perna in 2020, published by the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) titled “Recognizing the Reality of Working College Students,” sheds light on the challenges of working while enrolled. Importantly, it also provides recommendations on maximizing the benefits that specific types of employment offer as a career accelerator for college students. Getting this balance right is necessary to ensure that every student, as Perna writes, “especially students who must work for pay while enrolled—can fully engage in the academic experience, realize the potential benefits of working, and make timely progress to degree completion.”  The Working Student Divide Not all students enter college with the same financial stability or family support level. For many, employment isn’t optional—it’s essential. Perna cites research that demonstrates these students often face longer paths to graduation, limited access to extracurricular or academic enrichment opportunities, and higher stress levels that can affect their mental health and academic performance.. Perna calls for a shift in approaching this issue, advocating for policies and practices that better serve working students. She argues that “more can and should be done to ensure that all students—especially students who must work for pay while enrolled—can fully engage in the academic experience, realize the potential benefits of working, and make timely progress to degree completion.” Turning Work into a Pathway, Not a Barrier This is the challenge we tackle daily at Education at Work. We see students who can integrate employment as part of their college journeys daily when we offer them flexible schedules and the support to prioritize academics. Perna outlines a series of recommendations to “Minimize Harm and Maximize Benefits” of work. She highlights the importance of partnerships between students, employers, and higher education institutions, another key component of our model at Education at Work. She highlights proximity to campus of employment opportunities as a key criterion, another foundational design element of our employment opportunities. Our higher education partners often provide space on campus or in college-owned buildings nearby. Reducing the friction for students to travel between work, class, and extracurricular activities is an often-overlooked area of stress for students.  Programs like ours aim to demonstrate what’s possible when employers, educators, and communities recognize the needs of working students and build opportunities around them. We’ve seen students graduate on time with a job. It’s proof that when work aligns with learning, everyone wins. The Call to Action As the Perna report highlights, it’s time to reevaluate how we serve students who work. Whether through institutional policy changes, increased employer collaboration, or redesigned student services, there is a critical opportunity to reimagine work during college as a launchpad, not a hurdle. At Education at Work, we partner with forward-thinking universities and employers to create meaningful, flexible work opportunities that support student success. We’d love to talk if you’re ready to be part of the solution—and help shape the future of work-integrated learning. Contact us to explore how we can collaborate and make an impact together. Learn More Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

Transforming Education-to-Career Pathways: Education at Work President Jane Swift Featured at the 2025 ASU+GSV Summit

Transforming Education-to-Career Pathways Education at Work President Jane Swift Featured at the 2025 ASU+GSV Summit The 2025 ASU+GSV Summit, held April 6–9 in San Diego, gathered the most innovative leaders from education, business, and government to explore the future of learning and work. Education at Work’s president, Jane Swift, contributed her perspective and voice to two dynamic panels addressing some of the most pressing issues in education-to-career navigation and workforce development. Recalculating Routes… The State of Education to Career Navigation In this powerful session moderated by Julie Lammers of American Student Assistance, Jane joined leaders from ECMC, Kuder, and the Schultz Family Foundation to spotlight solutions that help students discover and pursue rewarding careers—whether through traditional degrees or alternative pathways like work-based learning and credentials. Jane shared how Education at Work’s unique model integrates paid, meaningful employment with guided skill development and mentorship. As she described, “When students in our Intuit program assist real customers during tax season, they aren’t just learning technical skills—they’re gaining confidence, building cultural capital, and navigating real workplace dynamics. That’s the kind of preparation that sticks.” She emphasized that career navigation isn’t just about coursework—it’s also about building social and professional networks, understanding workplace culture, and gaining the kind of experience that makes students stand out. “A student scanning a QR code to walk through a tax filing process isn’t just learning software,” she said. “They’re learning to explain, guide, and build trust—all essential, transferable skills.” The conversation underscored students’ challenges navigating over 1 million credentials from 60,000 providers and the growing disconnect between degrees and perceived readiness. With 81% of employers now believing that skills matter more than degrees, the panelists called for multi-sector collaboration, greater transparency, and scalable tools that help students, families, and employers evaluate and understand all post-secondary options.   Forming a More Perfect Union… A Bipartisan Conversation During Tuesday’s Lightning X Lunch, Jane joined an extraordinary panel of public officials and education leaders, including former U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema, former Delaware Governor Jack Markell, and state education secretaries Katie Jenner and Aimee Guidera, for a bipartisan conversation on the power of unity in transforming education and workforce development. Moderated by Ben Wallerstein of Whiteboard Advisors, the conversation was a rare and refreshing reminder that bridging divides is possible—and necessary—when preparing young people for meaningful careers. Jane offered a compelling perspective from the nonprofit and employer-partnered side, reinforcing that real change becomes possible when industry, government, and education align. She stressed the importance of equity, access, and relevance and how collaborative work-based learning programs like those offered by Education at Work can serve as scalable, inclusive models for student success. Why It Matters These two panels showcased what Jane—and Education at Work—stand for: breaking down silos, building social capital, and helping students take the most direct and supportive route from college to career. At a time when traditional education pathways are under scrutiny, E@W is proving that innovative, hands-on, and human-centered models can offer real solutions that meet the needs of both students and employers. Let’s keep the conversation going. Follow us on our socials to hear more stories from our students, see how we’re shaping the future of work, and contact us to explore ways to partner with us. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

Rethinking Student Employment: Key Takeaways from SXSW EDU Panel Discussion

Rethinking Student Employment Key Takeaways from SXSW EDU Panel Discussion Discover key insights from SXSW EDU’s panel on rethinking student employment and how scalable work-based learning models, like Education at Work, are reshaping the college-to-career journey. Learn how innovative partnerships are breaking barriers and preparing students for career success. At this year’s SXSW EDU, an annual event showcasing innovation in education, the conversation around work-based learning took center stage during a dynamic panel discussion titled “Learning While Earning: Rethinking Student Employment.” Moderated by Iris Palmer, Director of Community Colleges at New America, the panel featured expert insights from: Jane Swift, President of Education at Work Les O’Reilly, Director of Expert Sourcing Strategy & Partnerships, Intuit Louie Rodriguez, J.D., Vice Provost for Professional Development, Engagement, and Strategic Initiatives, University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Together, they explored how new student employment models can disrupt broken college-to-career systems and expand access to meaningful work experience for more college students. Why Work-Based Learning is Critical For many college students, working while studying is not just an option—it’s a necessity. Forty percent of full-time undergraduates are employed, working between 20 and 34 hours a week. First-generation college students face more significant challenges, often juggling longer work hours with fewer opportunities to secure career-boosting internships. Yet, internships remain a crucial stepping stone for students’ career success. Research from Strada Education Foundation and Handshake reveals that students overwhelmingly want internships, but barriers like time, finances, and accessibility prevent many from participating. Competition for these coveted opportunities is increasing– internship postings on Handshake declined by 15% between January 2023 and January 2025, making it even harder for students to gain relevant experience. Meanwhile, businesses are also struggling. Six in ten hiring managers report gaps in new grads’ skills, and many have fired Gen Z workers in the past year due to a lack of job readiness. So, how can we bridge the divide? The Education at Work Solution: A Scalable Model for Work-Based Learning During the panel discussion, Jane Swift highlighted how Education at Work (E@W) redefines student employment by connecting college students with flexible, paid roles at Fortune 500 companies. This enables them to earn a paycheck, gain durable and technical skills, and graduate with real-world work experience—all without sacrificing their education. Unlike traditional on-campus jobs or unpaid internships, E@W partners directly with universities and businesses to create work opportunities that integrate with students’ academic schedules while providing industry-aligned skills training. “This is about removing barriers for students,” Jane explained. “We need solutions that work for students who are already balancing work and school and also meet businesses’ needs for talent development.” How Can Work-Based Learning Be Scaled?  How to scale work-based learning beyond pilot programs and isolated partnerships was a key topic of discussion, and the panelists explored several policy solutions at both the state and federal levels, including: ✔ Expanding federal work-study eligibility to support more off-campus, career-relevant employment opportunities✔ Incentivizing employer partnerships to increase paid work-based learning programs✔ Investing in intermediary organizations like Education at Work, which help facilitate scalable solutions for students and employers  Looking Ahead The conversation at SXSW EDU emphasized that the current student employment model isn’t working for most students or businesses seeking skilled talent. New approaches, like Education at Work’s model, demonstrate that earning while learning doesn’t have to be a choice between a paycheck and a career path—it’s a way to achieve both. As the workforce continues to evolve, the need for scalable and accessible work-based learning programs has never been greater. We’d love to connect if you’re a university, employer, or policymaker looking to help students bridge the gap between education and career success. Contact Us to learn more about how Education at Work is shaping the future of student employment. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

10 Practical Tips for Effectively Brainstorming Career Pathways

10 Practical Tips for Effectively Brainstorming Career Pathways Navigating the journey from college to career can feel overwhelming for students trying to balance their studies, passions, and work experience. The pressure to “figure it all out” often leads to uncertainty about which career paths best align with their goals and skills. However, brainstorming potential career pathways doesn’t have to be daunting—it can be an exciting process of self-discovery and strategic planning.  In this article, we’ll share practical tips to help students explore opportunities that connect their academic pursuits, personal interests, and work experience, paving the way for a fulfilling professional future. Here are 10 practical tips students can follow to brainstorm and discover viable career pathways: 1. Reflect on Your Interests and Passions Take time to think about what excites you. What subjects, hobbies, or activities make you feel energized? Your passions often provide clues about the types of careers that would feel meaningful and enjoyable. 2. Assess Your Strengths and Skills Identify your unique abilities—both technical and soft skills. Are you great at problem-solving, public speaking, or working with technology? Knowing your strengths helps you focus on careers where you can excel. 3. Explore How Your Major Aligns with Careers Research the typical career paths associated with your major. Talk to professors, academic advisors, or alumni to understand how others with your academic background have launched their careers. Explore alternative career options by leveraging ChatGPT with prompts like “Give me a list of 10 outside-the-box career ideas for accounting majors.” 4. Leverage Your Work and Volunteer Experience Reflect on your part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer roles. What tasks did you enjoy the most? What skills did you develop? These experiences can point to industries or roles that align with your interests and abilities. 5. Consider Lifestyle and Values Think about the type of life you envision. Do you prefer a fast-paced environment or a flexible schedule? Are you drawn to roles with a strong social impact? Matching your values with your career goals helps ensure long-term satisfaction. 6. Conduct Informational Interviews Reach out to professionals in fields you’re interested in and ask about their career journeys, challenges, and day-to-day work. This firsthand insight can help determine if a particular path resonates with you. 7. Utilize your University Career Center Most universities offer vast career resources to students and alumni, such as career and skill assessments, resume-building tools, interview preparation, and even career coaching appointments. Explore your school’s career center website or schedule a career counselor.  8. Attend Career Events and Job Fairs Take advantage of career fairs, industry conferences, and networking events. These provide opportunities to learn about different industries, meet potential employers, and discover roles you may not have considered. 9. Experiment Through Internships or Freelance Work Test the waters in different fields by taking on internships, part-time work, or freelance projects. Real-world experience can help you decide what you enjoy (and what you don’t). 10. Create a Vision and Set Goals Envision where you want to be in five or ten years. Set small, achievable goals to help you move toward that vision, whether it’s gaining new skills, exploring industries, or building a professional network. Conclusion Finding the right career path starts with self-reflection, exploration, and real-world experience. Applying the tips in this article and seeking opportunities to grow, you can confidently take steps toward a fulfilling career that aligns with your passions and goals. Education at Work is here to help you on that journey. Our student employment opportunities offer more than just a job—they provide a chance to develop the skills and connections that will set you apart in the workforce. Learn more about our current job openings and how we can support you in building your future. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

Face Time: The Unmatched Power of In-Person Networking for College Students in the Digital Age

Face Time: The Unmatched Power of In-Person Networking for College Students in the Digital Age In today’s highly digital age, where LinkedIn profiles and virtual meetings dominate professional interactions, in-person networking remains an invaluable tool for college students in building authentic relationships. While digital platforms offer convenience, they often lack the depth and personal connection that in-person interactions provide. The university experience is a melting pot of expertise where individuals bring unique skills, insights, and ambitions. In this dynamic environment, the power of networking shines. Connections forged in college can shape not only a student’s academic journey but also their career trajectory. Whether through a chance meeting with a classmate who shares your passion, a mentoring relationship with a professor, or an employment opportunity that aligns perfectly with your aspirations, networking is the bridge that turns potential into action. At Education at Work, we provide employment opportunities that allow college students to gain real-world work experience, develop highly sought-after skills, and graduate with less debt and access to high-quality first jobs. Our work-based learning model allows students to practice essential interpersonal skills, make lasting impressions, and gain insights from industry professionals in a way that others simply can’t replicate.  When students connect with peers across disciplines in work-based learning environments like Education at Work, they merge unique talents with real-world experiences, propelling their learning and professional growth to new heights.  Why In-Person Networking Matters More Than Ever In a world where screens dominate our daily lives, connecting in person has become a standout skill. Employers consistently value candidates who demonstrate strong communication and relationship-building abilities. In-person networking allows you to showcase these skills and develop them. Moreover, personal networking fosters genuine relationships that go beyond transactional exchanges. These connections often lead to mentorships, internships, and collaborations that can profoundly influence your career. Tips for Effective In-Person Networking Be Prepared: Research the attendees or organizations involved before attending any event. Prepare a few questions or topics to discuss that align with your interests. Be Genuine: Focus on building relationships rather than simply collecting contacts. Show genuine interest in others and their stories. Follow-up: After meeting someone, send a personalized email or message to thank them for their time and continue the conversation. Practice Your Elevator Pitch: Be ready to succinctly share who you are, what you’re passionate about, and what you want to achieve.  The Takeaway Networking in college is more than a professional strategy—it’s a mindset that shapes your learning, collaboration, and growth approach. By embracing the opportunities for face-to-face interactions and making meaningful connections, you’re expanding your network and creating a foundation for success far beyond graduation. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube