Empowering Tomorrow’s Workforce Today: Tackling Skill Gaps with Work-Based Learning
Empowering Tomorrow’s Workforce Today: Tackling Skill Gaps with Work-Based Learning As the skills gap grows, employers face significant challenges in finding qualified candidates to fill critical roles. At the same time, students struggle to connect classroom learning with the demands of real-world careers. Bridging this gap requires innovative solutions that align education with workforce needs. Education at Work is at the forefront of this effort, partnering with organizations to prepare the next generation of talent through meaningful work-based learning opportunities. The workforce of tomorrow hinges on our actions today. This blog explores the pressing challenges of learning loss, the demand for skills-based hiring, and how partnerships with organizations like Education at Work can empower students and employers to secure a future-ready workforce. Learning Loss and the Future Talent Pipeline Learning loss remains a pressing issue, with students struggling to regain ground after disruptions in education. Despite a return to the classroom, many students increasingly rely on technology and AI shortcuts, limiting their active engagement with learning tasks. This reliance often prevents them from developing essential soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—qualities that are vital for career success. The current public school system is not designed to address these challenges effectively, leaving a significant portion of future talent ill-equipped to meet the demands of the workforce. Skills-Based Hiring Challenges in the WorkforceWhether emerging talent is adequately prepared to enter the workforce has become a shared concern for businesses and society. According to SHRM’s 2024 Talent Trends report, 75% of organizations struggled to fill full-time positions last year, with over 8.7 million job openings across the U.S. Many of these hiring challenges stem from technical and soft skills gaps. Technical Skill Shortages: Skilled trade positions were the second most difficult to fill in 2023, with 46% of HR professionals reporting significant challenges in recruiting for these roles. Over one-third of HR professionals cite a lack of candidates with the right technical skills as a primary barrier to recruitment. Soft Skill Gaps: As AI and automation reshape industries, critical thinking has become a top priority for employers. 77% of HR professionals identify it as a key skill for emerging professionals. However, less than one-third of employers believe recent graduates possess the critical thinking skills necessary to succeed. These skill gaps highlight the urgent need for innovative approaches to workforce readiness. Addressing Workforce Readiness Through Work-Based LearningWork-based learning programs offer solutions by forging partnerships between employers, educational institutions, and students. These programs equip students with the technical and soft skills necessary for career success while helping employers build a reliable talent pipeline. At Education at Work, we specialize in connecting motivated, tech-savvy college students with leading organizations. Our unique model combines real-world training with part-time employment, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience while pursuing their education. Benefits of Partnering with Education at Work: Access a pipeline of future-ready talent for project management, analytics, customer service roles, and more. Support workforce development by fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Achieve measurable business outcomes while contributing to student success. A Win-Win for Employers and Students Employers can address recruitment, training, and retention challenges by investing in early career talent through partnerships with organizations like Education at Work. Students, in turn, benefit from gaining real-world experience and developing transferable skills that set them up for long-term success. We can bridge the skills gap and build a stronger, more resilient workforce. Are You Ready to Invest in the Future of Talent?Partnering with Education at Work is more than a strategic business decision—it’s a commitment to shaping the future of work. Contact us today to learn how we can help your organization prepare a talent pipeline and secure a workforce ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges. Linkedin Facebook Instagram
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
How to Foster Growth for Early Talent in 2025
How to Foster Growth for Early Talent in 2025 The race to secure top talent is evolving, and forward-thinking companies are shifting focus to early talent pipelines as a cornerstone of workforce development in 2025. As the future of work demands more diverse and adaptable professionals, investing in early career talent has become a strategic advantage and a necessity. Building a robust talent pipeline requires more than traditional recruitment methods in today’s competitive labor market. Companies must embrace innovative strategies like work-based learning programs and strategic partnerships to engage, recruit, and retain a diverse, skilled workforce. These approaches provide hands-on experience for students and deliver cost-effective, high-retention solutions for employers, bridging the skills gap while fostering meaningful career growth. This article explores how organizations can adopt these strategies to secure early talent and drive workforce innovation. We’ll examine the importance of early talent pipeline development, the transformative role of work-based learning programs, and the value of partnerships with organizations like Education at Work. Through actionable insights and proven success stories, you’ll discover how to position your company as a leader in early talent development and create a sustainable competitive edge. The Importance of Early Talent Pipeline Development Companies are increasingly facing pressure to fill roles requiring specialized skills in technology, project management, and customer service. Building an early talent pipeline is a proactive solution to this pressing workforce challenge: the skills gap. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2030, over one billion people will need to reskill to meet the demands of the changing job market. Organizations that invest in early career programs can address this gap while creating a more diverse, innovative workforce. The Benefits of Work-Based Learning Programs Organizations embracing work-based learning programs are reaping tangible benefits, from improved retention rates to cost efficiencies in recruitment. Work-based learning programs provide students with invaluable hands-on experience while allowing companies to assess talent in real-world scenarios. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), students participating in these programs are significantly more likely to receive job offers upon graduation, making these initiatives a win-win for both parties. Retaining early-career employees can be challenging, but work-based learning programs offer a solution and improve retention rates. Studies from LinkedIn indicate that employees who feel invested in by their employers are 50% more likely to stay long-term. By nurturing talent from the outset, organizations can reduce turnover and build a loyal workforce. Work-based learning programs can also help companies mitigate the expensive cost of recruitment. A 2022 report by Deloitte highlighted that investing in these programs and early talent pipelines can cut recruitment costs by as much as 40%, thanks to reduced reliance on external hiring and lower onboarding expenses. Strategic Partnerships with Organizations like Education at Work Companies need strong partnerships to leverage the benefits of early talent development fully. Organizations like Education at Work provide customized solutions to help employers access diverse candidate pools and meet their unique workforce needs. Through collaboration, Education at Work designs tailored programs that align with a company’s specific hiring objectives. These initiatives streamline the recruitment process and ensure that students are equipped with the exact skills employers require. Leading companies like Intuit have partnered with Education at Work to develop talent pipelines that deliver measurable results. For example, Intuit’s partnership with Arizona State University, facilitated by Education at Work, has recruited hundreds of skilled student employees for tax season, addressing immediate business needs while investing in long-term talent development. Whether you’re an HR leader, hiring manager, or executive looking to future-proof your workforce, implement these strategies to unlock the potential of tomorrow’s leaders—starting today. By embracing work-based learning programs, forging strategic partnerships, and implementing effective talent strategies, you can build a diverse, skilled, and loyal workforce prepared to tackle the challenges of 2025 and beyond. Education at Work partners with employers seeking innovative solutions for early talent pipeline development. Contact us today to learn how we can help your organization unlock the potential of tomorrow’s leaders—starting now. Linkedin Facebook Instagram
Launch Your Career While in College
Launch Your Career While in College Real-World Experience with Education at Work Gaining relevant work experience can be a game-changer for college students. It’s more than just building a resume—it’s about developing real-world skills that bridge the gap between academic learning and professional success. Education at Work allows students to enter meaningful, industry-aligned roles with leading companies. Through hands-on experience, tailored training, and growth opportunities, our programs empower students to graduate with a competitive edge and be fully prepared to thrive in their careers. For college students, hands-on experience in their chosen field is vital to bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications. It builds technical skills and equips students with the confidence and readiness to take on the demands of a full-time career. At Education at Work, we’re committed to offering students impactful, industry-relevant experiences that set them apart in today’s competitive job market. The Value of Early Career Experience Studies show that work-based learning and hands-on experience are critical predictors of early career success. According to a report by the Strada Education Foundation, work-based learning experiences can result in higher job satisfaction. 19% of all Bachelor’s degree holders claim that their education helped them achieve their goals. In comparison, 39% more work-based learning participants who hold Bachelor’s degrees report a feeling of achieving their goals. Individuals also feel more confident. Nearly 80% of work-based learning participants and paid internship holders reported confidence in their knowledge and skills to be successful in the job market. Education at Work understands this reality and structures its student job programs to equip students with the experience they need to stand out. How Education at Work Helps Build Relevant Experience Direct Access to Industry Roles: We partner with leading companies, placing students in roles that align with in-demand skills and emerging fields like analytics, customer service, project management, and technology. By working with actual client requirements, our students gain experience that directly reflects the skills employers are seeking. Skills Development Through Training: Every position at Education at Work includes comprehensive training, helping students develop job-specific skills and broader competencies like project management, communication, and technical problem-solving. Opportunities for Responsibility and Growth: Education at Work doesn’t just offer entry-level tasks; students are encouraged to take ownership of their work and even manage their peers as they progress. This approach provides students with experience in leadership, collaboration, and time management—capabilities that translate into higher confidence levels and readiness for post-graduation employment. Making the Most of Your Experience at Education at Work Students are encouraged to adopt an active learning approach, allowing them to fully maximize the benefits of their opportunity at Education at Work. This approach includes setting personal development goals, seeking supervisor feedback, and identifying how each task aligns with their career aspirations. Students who actively pursue new challenges and stay engaged in their roles will likely build a well-rounded skill set, allowing them to adapt to various career paths. Gaining relevant experience through a structured program like Education at Work is more than just a job; it’s an investment in your future. By combining industry-aligned roles with real responsibility, we position students to enter the workforce with a strong, competitive advantage and a head start in building a successful, fulfilling career. Tips for Transitioning to a Full-Time Career After Education at Work Transitioning from an Education at Work student job to a full-time role can be exciting and challenging. When it’s time to take the next step, these transition strategies can help students leverage their E@W experience for a smooth career entry. Highlight Transferable Skills on Your Resume: Your experience at E@W has equipped you with numerous transferable skills—such as communication, problem-solving, and project management—that are valuable in any industry. Update your resume to reflect these skills and provide specific examples. Network with Your E@W Connections: Networking remains one of the most effective ways to transition into a full-time role. Use the connections you made at E@W, including supervisors, mentors, and colleagues, to learn about opportunities in your desired field. Consider reaching out to them for informational interviews or recommendations, and be sure to stay in touch on LinkedIn. Prepare for Interviews by Reflecting on Your E@W Experience: Interviewers appreciate candidates who share specific, real-world examples showcasing their skills and work ethic. Reflect on your accomplishments and challenges at E@W and consider how these experiences prepared you for a full-time role. Craft your responses to highlight your technical and durable skills, such as handling customer inquiries, managing projects, or adapting to unexpected changes. Set Career Goals and Seek Mentorship: Goal-setting is vital to a successful career transition. Take time to define your career aspirations, such as the industries you’re interested in, the roles you’re targeting, or the skills you want to develop further. Mentorship can be instrumental in this process, and many E@W alumni are eager to support new graduates. Consider contacting past Education at Work mentors or joining our LinkedIn alumni group to gain guidance and insights on your journey. Use Professional Development Resources: Many companies, including E@W’s corporate partners, offer professional development resources like training sessions, workshops, and certifications. These opportunities can enhance your skill set and make you more competitive as a job candidate. LinkedIn Learning, for instance, has reported that job candidates who complete professional development courses see a 2x higher engagement rate from recruiters, underscoring the value of continuous learning. Transitioning from your Education at Work student job to a full-time career is a significant step. Still, with preparation and a focus on leveraging your experience, you’ll be ready to tackle this new chapter confidently. You can maximize this transition by strategically emphasizing your durable skills, networking, staying committed to your goals, and taking advantage of every growth opportunity to set yourself up for success. Ready to take the next step? Start implementing these tips today to boost your potential, and check out our current student job listings to see how Education at Work can help you kickstart your career!
The Career-Boosting Benefits of Networking as a Student
The Career-Boosting Benefits of Networking as a Student How Building Connections Now Can Shape Your Future Success Networking is one of the most critical ways students can enhance their career prospects while still in school. For students at Education at Work, networking isn’t just a buzzword but a vital step toward a successful career. By strategically connecting with peers, mentors, and professionals, they’re investing in a support system to empower their career journey now and long into the future. In today’s competitive job market, success often hinges on more than just skills and knowledge—it’s also about who you know. As a student, building a solid professional network while still in school can unlock doors you never imagined, from valuable career guidance to exclusive job opportunities. Studies suggest that a staggering 85% of jobs are filled through networking, underscoring the importance of cultivating these connections early. Why Networking Matters Early For Education at Work students, networking can lead to valuable mentorship, references, and future job opportunities. We often give students unique access to professionals they might not encounter otherwise, such as supervisors, colleagues, and clients at Fortune 500 companies. These connections can prove invaluable when you transition into full-time employment, providing a competitive edge by tapping into “who you know” as much as “what you know.” Research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) shows that 60% of hiring managers consider a candidate’s networking connections when making hiring decisions. Building a strong student network isn’t just about making contacts; it’s about laying a foundation for your career. How to Effectively Network In Your Education at Work Student Job Engage with Colleagues: Make an effort to build relationships with the people you work with. Get to know your supervisors, ask them about their career paths, and tell them about your interests and goals. Showing genuine interest in others and asking questions can help you learn from their experiences and establish rapport. Attend Company Events or Webinars: Attending Education at Work events allows you to connect with employees in different departments, expanding your understanding of the organization and giving you a broader network of contacts. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to senior staff—these people may advocate for you in future roles. Utilize LinkedIn: If you haven’t already, set up a LinkedIn profile and connect with the people you meet through your Education at Work student job. Keep your profile updated with your achievements and projects, as it provides a professional platform to stay in touch with contacts and showcase your growth. LinkedIn data shows that students who connect with professionals are more likely to be approached by recruiters and potential employers. Pro Tips for Successful Student Networking Follow-Up: After meeting someone at an event or receiving mentorship from a supervisor, send a follow-up email or message. A simple “thank you” can make a lasting impression and help keep your name at the forefront of an employer’s mind. Sending a message after a job milestone or sharing relevant industry insights are great follow-ups. Following up shows that you value your connections. Leverage Alumni Networks: Many colleges and universities have alumni eager to help students from their alma mater. Education at Work has an alumni group on LinkedIn to encourage fellow alums to reconnect, share experiences, and actively support each other’s career journeys. Tap into these resources by attending alumni events, reaching out on LinkedIn, or participating in school-sponsored networking programs. Look for individuals who inspire you or have careers that align with your goals. Mentors can offer guidance, answer questions, and advise on navigating early career growth challenges. Many people are willing to mentor if you show initiative and respect for their time. In conclusion, networking as a student is more than just meeting people—it’s about building a support system and creating opportunities for your future career. Whether you’re connecting with colleagues, alumni, or professionals in your field, each relationship strengthens your career foundation and opens doors to potential mentorships, job opportunities, and valuable industry insights. Don’t miss out on the chance to build your network while gaining real-world experience. Take the next step toward your career by exploring our current student job openings! These roles offer professional experience and valuable networking opportunities to help you thrive in the job market. Linkedin Facebook Instagram
Building Durable Skills for Career Success
Building Durable Skills for Career Success How Education at Work Prepares You for the Future Education at Work student jobs offer much more than temporary income; they’re practical training grounds for cultivating “durable” skills like problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork—skills essential for the future workforce. College is more than a time for academics; it’s a launchpad for building a career. Through Education at Work, students will develop lasting skills that prepare them for success after graduation. This blog highlights how an Education at Work student job can be more than just a college gig; it can be the gateway to a high-quality post-graduate job. Building Durable Skills Developing “durable skills”—relevant and adaptable skills across roles and industries—is one of the most impactful ways a student job can contribute to your career. Unlike technical skills, which may become outdated, durable skills like communication, problem-solving, and adaptability are always in demand. The World Economic Forum (WEF) projects that by 2025, more than 50% of all employees will need reskilling due to shifts in the skills required for their jobs. This reskilling need highlights the value of durable skills, a foundation professionals can build on throughout their careers. Why Durable Skills Matter The demand for durable skills has increased, with employers prioritizing attributes like creativity, collaboration, and resilience over specific technical knowledge. The top 5 durable skills were requested 3.8x more than the top 5 hard skills. According to a LinkedIn report, 89% of recruiters say that when a new hire doesn’t work out, it’s usually due to a lack of soft skills rather than technical skills. This means that students who excel in developing durable skills are more likely to succeed in securing and retaining high-quality job roles, regardless of their field. How Education at Work Student Jobs Foster Durable Skills Education at Work student jobs require you to juggle responsibilities, collaborate with coworkers, and often handle challenges on the fly. Here’s how our student jobs can help you cultivate some of the most essential and durable skills: Problem-Solving: In almost any student role, from customer service to project coordination, challenges will arise that require quick thinking and creative solutions. Use these moments as opportunities to hone your problem-solving abilities—an essential skill in any industry. Adaptability: The ability to adjust to new processes, technologies, or shifts in responsibilities is invaluable. By embracing changes in your student job, you build flexibility and adaptability, which are crucial in today’s dynamic job market. Communication: Clear, professional communication is central to nearly every role, and Education at Work’s student jobs provide frequent practice, whether you’re interacting with customers, coworkers, or supervisors. These interactions help you learn how to convey ideas, listen actively, and adjust your communication style based on your audience. Practical Tips for Developing Durable Skills at Education at Work Seek Out Challenges: Don’t settle for routine tasks. Ask your supervisor for additional responsibilities that push you out of your comfort zone. For example, volunteering to lead a small project can develop leadership and project management skills. Set Skill Development Goals: Identify critical skills—such as teamwork, organization, or conflict resolution—that you want to focus on in your role. Track your progress and reflect on how your job tasks contribute to your growth in these areas. Request Feedback: Regular feedback from supervisors or colleagues can provide valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement. Embracing constructive criticism is a skill and a powerful way to keep growing. By actively developing durable skills in your Education at Work student job, you’ll perform better and build a skill set that will carry you through various career opportunities. Employers in all sectors seek candidates who can adapt, communicate, and tackle challenges effectively—qualities that start with intentional growth in entry-level roles. Ready to take advantage of a valuable platform for building durable skills that last far beyond graduation? Check out our current student job listings to see how Education at Work can help you become a professional who can thrive in any environment!
Student Success: Hussain Pirbhai
Student Success: Hussain Pirbhai Hussain Pirbhai, a graduate from University of Texas, Dallas (UTD) reflects on his time at Education at Work and shares how the experience has prepared him for the job he currently holds at Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company and the double master’s degrees he is in pursuit of now in Information Technology Management. Hussain Pirbhai, who graduated in Spring of 2023 from the University of Texas, Dallas (UTD), with a degree in Information Technology and Systems, specializing in IT Sales Engineering, spoke with me about his time at Education at Work and how the experience helped him get to where he is today. Hussain began working at Education at Work for Fidelity Investments during his last semester of college through the middle of the summer after he graduated. As he reflects on his time at Education at Work, Hussain is most grateful for the friendships made and the invaluable knowledge gained about financial planning, investments, and overall business acumen that he will be able to take with him and apply through the rest of his life. Not to mention, all while earning enough money to afford college and graduate debt-free. What position did you hold while working at Education at Work? Hussain: I worked for Fidelity Investments as a non qual differed compensation intern – assisting the service delivery managers on the non-qual team on projects they needed help with through the quarter, such as creating reports, analysis, and cross-checking data. What would you say are the key things you learned or key takeaways being a part of Education at Work working with Fidelity? Hussain: Developing interpersonal skills, specifically communication skills. I would be in meetings with service delivery managers, which was extremely insightful. Being able to witness what was being discussed from a high-level strategic perspective. Becoming accustomed to working for a large firm like Fidelity and being able to communicate with people at different levels within a company. Improving my Excel skills – advanced concepts in Excel from creating advanced reports to sorting data and running macros. I also became familiar with Fidelity’s own proprietary software for analytics. This experience provided insight into what large companies use for gathering data and how to use it without being intimidated. Now I feel confident that no matter what company I work for in the future, I will be able to quickly adapt and learn their systems, processes, and software. What three things did you like about working at EAW as a full-time student? Hussain: The first was flexibility. It was absolutely amazing that Education at Work allowed me the opportunity to create my own schedule and work based off my own class schedule as a full-time student. This was my last semester, which was very hectic, and I had to also add on another class, but the flexibility I was provided to change my work schedule a couple of times to accommodate my changing class schedule was something I greatly appreciated. It allowed me to focus on my academics, while also earning an income working. It provided me with that multi-tasking ability. The second was working in a hybrid environment where I had the opportunity to either go into the office, work from home, or do both depending on my class schedule. My managers were very supportive in allowing me to come into the office for a shift prior to my classes, then stop to attend class and finish up my shift at home. I also loved the Fidelity campus, it was so beautiful, so I didn’t mind going into the office for my shifts. In fact, there were times I would just go to the office and get a study room to do my schoolwork or study. The third was the relationship that built with my Education at Work managers and co-workers. Everyone was so helpful, warm, and kind to me and my brother (who also worked at Education at Work). I really enjoyed working with them and made many friends. What would tell students who are looking for employment to help afford college and stay in school about Education at Work? Hussain: What I would tell students about Education at Work is it is a wonderful program if you want to make good money for part-time work and real-world experience at a major corporation. Regardless of what your major or degree is in, this opportunity is a great alternative if you find it hard to get an internship in your field of study which is many times hard to get. Education at Work allows you the opportunity to work with a fortune 500 company and have resume-worthy experience to show after graduation, allowing a great start to your career. I told all my friends and other students I know about working with Education at Work. You are provided a flexible work schedule that accommodates your classes, and for students who want to work for the summer and can’t get an internship, you have the chance to earn wages and tuition assistance along with skills and experience to put on your resume that would be applicable anywhere. This is a much better option than working a summer job at Walmart, Target, or Whole Foods. Now that you have graduated, what are your plans moving forward? Hussain: I have a position at Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (HPE) as part of their inside sales team working in pre-sales and marketing. HP recently acquired a new cybersecurity/cloud platform, and my role is on a new task force, and it’s been amazing. It’s like I’m working for a startup while at a large company. Although I am on the sales side of things, my IT background is really helping with the job as I have been able to assist my co-workers and peers when they get stuck on topics related to technology. I am also getting a MS/MBA doing a double major, double masters, at University of Texas, Dallas (UTD) in Information Technology Management. “I cannot thank Education at Work and all the
Student Success: Amanda Sather
Student Success: Amanda Sather Recent ASU grad, Amanda Sather, reflects on her time at Education at Work as she gets ready to head off to the University of Connecticut in pursuit of her master’s degree and doctorate. She is grateful for the time spent, relationships made, and credits her Education at Work experience for the invaluable leadership skills and abilities she’s developed while earning a debt-free education. Amanda Sather, who graduated from Arizona State University in May of 2023 with a bachelor’s degree, reflects on her time at Education at Work as she begins at the University of Connecticut in pursuit of her master’s degree and doctorate in Human Development and Family Sciences. Amanda started working at Education at Work for a U.S.-based financial services company in November of 2020 and continued with that same company throughout her college career moving her way up from customer service rep to supervisor. As she reflects, Amanda is most grateful for the relationships made and the invaluable leadership skills and abilities she developed, all while earning money to afford college and graduate debt-free. During her time at Education at Work, Amanda gained recognition from her leadership team as she quickly grew her skills in account management, customer service interaction, workflow organization, and meeting high key performance indicator goals which resulted in high productivity. She was promoted to a leadership position within a year. “While most college students must wait until after they graduate for the opportunity to experience the level of responsibility required to obtain lifelong professional skills, I was able to accomplish this while still an undergraduate student”, says Amanda. As a Student Supervisor, Amanda was responsible for managing and coaching 15 student representatives until she graduated this past Spring. Upon graduation, she was hired full-time in that same leadership position prior to leaving for Connecticut. Amanda found that the most valuable skill she learned was how to be an effective leader for her team and credits her time at Education at Work for preparing her to effectively lead people and help them succeed. Amanda pointed out that an additional key benefit to her time at Education at Work was the ability to have a flexible work schedule, working part-time while a full-time student and increase her hours when she didn’t have classes over the summer. This helped Amanda afford college and complete her degree with no student debt. “The flexibility and convenience of earning wages and tuition assistance while still a full-time student is what I valued most about Education at Work”, Amanda says. “How I was able to work for a large corporation that worked with me around my classes, and then in the summer could pick up more hours to help pay for school.” Amanda concludes, “My overall experience at Education at Work was truly rewarding. I had virtually no professional work experience going into Education at Work, and I walked out knowing how to navigate difficult conversations, overcome challenges, and hit performance goals, all lifelong professional skills that are extremely beneficial.”
Student Success: Samantha Andrew
Student Success: Samantha Andrew Samantha Andrew, a graduate from Northern Kentucky University (NKU) reflects on her time at Education at Work as she gets ready to begin her career as a 4th grade elementary school teacher with the knowledge of financial planning that will set her up for her future. Samantha Andrew, who graduated from Northern Kentucky University in May of 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, reflects on her time at Education at Work as she gets ready to begin her teaching career as a 4th grade elementary school teacher. Samantha began working at Education at Work for a U.S.-based multinational financial services company in April of 2019 and continued with that same company throughout the entire time she attended college. As she reflects on her time at Education at Work, Samantha is most grateful for the friendships made and the invaluable knowledge gained about financial products and financial planning that she will be able to take with her and apply through the rest of her life. Not to mention, all while earning enough money to afford college and graduate debt-free. “During my time at Education at Work, I was not only able to gain financial knowledge to prepare me to set myself up early to save for my future using financial products, but I was also able to make so many friends during my time with the program.” An additional key benefit, Samantha pointed out, to her time at Education at Work was the ability to have a flexible work schedule – working part-time while a full-time student with the opportunity to increase her hours when she didn’t have classes over the summer. This helped Samantha afford college and complete her degree with no student debt. “The flexibility offered by Education at Work allowed me the opportunity to fit extracurricular activities into my schedule and earning wages and tuition assistance while still a full-time student.” “I liked that fact that I was able to work for a large corporation that worked with me around my classes and activities, and then in the summer could pick up more hours to help pay for school,” she says. Samantha concludes, “Overall, I cannot thank Education at Work enough for the amazing opportunity it provided. It was an incredible place to work, a place where I forged meaningful relationships, developed lifelong knowledge and skills that will help me in my future, and able to earn enough money to graduate debt free.”
Student Success: Tomás Valladares
Student Success: Tomás Valladares I am finishing my degree in finance at the University of North Texas and will be graduating in the spring with a full-time job lined up as a commercial underwriter with a major insurance carrier. I have worked at Education at Work all 3 years of my college career. In one of my first business classes, the professor told our class that one of the most important steps a college student can take is getting a job in the industry they are studying. A few weeks after hearing this I saw a job post for a phone agent position at a well-known financial company via Education at Work. Applying for this position ultimately propelled my career forward more than I could have imagined. The flexibility offered by Education at Work allowed me to fit extracurricular activities into my schedule while going to school full-time. Professional organizations were also quick to accept my applications after seeing that I had experience in the industry and had developed important soft skills. Education at Work gave me recognition for the work I did and provided me with promotions along the way. After working in customer service roles for nearly a year and a half, I was able to transition to a project manager role, allowing me to develop a wide spectrum of work experience with a Fortune 500 company. During an internship interview, the manager interviewing me kept coming back to the fact that I had client-facing experience and project management skills. I believe these two skills developed at Education at Work were critical in landing the internship, leading to a full-time offer after graduation. I view Education at Work as a vital supplement to my college education. The two worked in tandem to provide a holistic educational experience that pushed my career forward while providing financial support along the way.