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 Unlike technical skills, which can quickly become outdated, durable skills empower recent graduates to excel across various fields and adapt to the evolving demands of the workplace.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
Growing Skills, Confidence, and Connections at E@W Student Spotlight: David Wu
Growing Skills, Confidence, and Connections at E@W Student Spotlight: David Wu At just 19 years old, ASU student David Wu is already building a strong foundation for his future—thanks to his role with Intuit through Education at Work. In this spotlight, David shares how he’s gaining real-world experience, growing his confidence, and developing skills to support his long-term success. Meet David Wu, a 19-year-old Arizona State University student balancing academic success with professional growth. As a Product Expert with Intuit through Education at Work (E@W), David has found more than just a part-time job—he’s gaining invaluable experience shaping his future. Building Professional Skills “Working as a Product Expert has strengthened my communication skills,” David shares. “Since I’m constantly interacting with customers, I’ve learned how to communicate clearly, listen actively, and adapt to different situations—all skills that will be valuable in any career. This role has also taught me the importance of accountability: showing up on time, staying prepared, giving my best effort, and knowing when to ask for help. I’ve developed these habits at E@W and know they’ll benefit me long after I leave.” Why E@W is the Smart Choice for Students For students looking for meaningful part-time work, David encourages them to consider E@W:“If you’re a student looking for part-time work, E@W is worth considering. Not only do you earn a paycheck, but you also get tuition assistance—which helps with college expenses. Beyond that, you gain real-world professional experience and the chance to develop skills to set you up for future success. It’s more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to grow while still focusing on your education.” Working with Industry Leaders One of the standout aspects of David’s experience has been the opportunity to work with a major company like Intuit while still in school.“One of the biggest benefits of working for a large company like Intuit is building connections with experienced professionals. You can network with people who can become mentors, offer guidance, and potentially open doors for you after graduation. On top of that, you’re gaining real-world experience—applying what you’ve learned in class to actual professional situations. It also pushes you to step outside your comfort zone, which has helped me build confidence and tackle new challenges head-on.” David’s Final Thoughts David’s journey at E@W shows just how impactful the experience can be. Not only is he earning an income and receiving tuition support, but he’s also developing the professional skills, confidence, and connections to serve him well beyond graduation. If you’re a college student looking for a job that offers more than a paycheck, E@W provides the perfect blend of financial support, flexible scheduling, and career development—all while working alongside industry leaders who want to see you succeed. View our open student positions and apply now! 🌟 Learn More Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Student Spotlight: Edward Osei | ASU Student • Intuit Product Expert • Future Finance Pro
ASU Student • Intuit Product Expert • Future Finance Pro Student Spotlight: Edward Osei ASU Student • Intuit Product Expert • Future Finance Pro Student Spotlight: Edward Osei ASU Student • Intuit Product Expert • Future Finance Pro Meet Edward Osei, a driven student at Arizona State University who’s gaining more than just a paycheck through his role as a product expert with Intuit, which was made possible by Education at Work. In his own words, Edward credits E@W with helping him build something you can’t always learn in a classroom: true confidence. “I like to talk to people, but I didn’t know how to do it professionally. Now, I’m comfortable on the phone, helping customers, and I see the results in my performance. That confidence came from this job.” One of the most significant benefits for Edward? Work-life balance that prioritizes being a student. “They want you to be a student first and a worker second. If you have an exam or project, they support you. It’s why ‘education’ is in the name.” And when it comes to tuition assistance, Edward doesn’t hold back: “I love the tuition assistance—no lie! It’s been incredibly helpful. I’m just trying to make it through school and pursue my dreams, and E@W and Intuit provide support tenfold.” Watch Edward’s full spotlight video above to hear his story in his own words. Ready to build transferrable skills, grow your confidence, and get school support? Explore our current student job openings and apply today! 🌟 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
Student Spotlight: Sydney Rice | ASU Freshman & Intuit Product Expert
Student Spotlight: Sydney Rice ASU Freshman & Intuit Product Expert Starting college is a big step—new classes, responsibilities, and finding a rhythm that balances it all. For Sydney Rice, a freshman at Arizona State University majoring in International Relations, the decision to take on a professional role alongside her studies might seem ambitious. However, for Sydney, working as an Intuit Product Expert through Education at Work has fit seamlessly into her college experience and provided her with skills and confidence that will stick with her well beyond her time at ASU. Gaining Real-World Skills Early On Sydney’s role at Intuit puts her on the front line of customer support, where no two days are precisely the same. Each customer brings a unique question or challenge, and it’s up to her to provide helpful solutions—sometimes on the fly. “This position has helped me sharpen my critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” Sydney shares. “Customers often call in with specific challenges, and I have to think quickly, stay calm under pressure, and find the right solution. Sometimes, that means relying on the resources available to me; sometimes, it’s about trusting my judgment. Either way, every conversation is a learning opportunity.” But beyond solving technical issues, Sydney says one of the biggest takeaways has been developing strong customer service skills—something she knows will benefit her long after this job. “Learning how to connect with customers, even when frustrated, and helping them feel supported has been huge for my growth.” Connecting Coursework with Career Goals As an International Relations major, Sydney’s coursework revolves around understanding people’s cultures and how communication plays a key role in diplomacy and leadership. She’s found that her experience at Intuit mirrors many of those same lessons. “Communication is everything in my field,” Sydney explains. “Every day in this role, I interact with people from all different backgrounds, personalities, and situations. It’s up to me to make sure they feel heard and supported, whether the conversation is easy or challenging. That experience aligns perfectly with what I’m learning in my classes.” She adds that her job has also taught her valuable lessons in patience, empathy, and adaptability—qualities she sees as essential to her future career. Flexible, Student-First Work Environment One of the reasons Sydney is eager to recommend Education at Work to fellow students is the flexibility and support built into the program. Unlike traditional student jobs, E@W understands that academics come first and balancing life as a college student requires adaptability. “I’d recommend working here to any friend looking for a job,” Sydney says. “It’s not just about earning a paycheck—although that’s a bonus. What I appreciate most is how flexible and student-focused it is. I can prioritize my classes, exams, and schoolwork and still pick up shifts that fit my schedule.” That flexibility allows Sydney to fully embrace the college experience without sacrificing valuable work experience. “You can still have a social life, hang out with friends, and enjoy all the things that make college fun while also gaining skills and experience that will help you after graduation.” Building a Foundation for the Future In addition to the hands-on skills and customer service experience, Sydney also benefits from Education at Work’s tuition assistance program, which helps lighten the financial burden of college. For her, it’s the full package—real-world experience, professional development, flexibility, and financial support—all designed to help students succeed. As Sydney continues her journey at ASU, she’s confident that the skills and knowledge she’s building will serve as a strong foundation for her future career. “This experience has been such an important part of my growth,” she reflects. “It’s setting me up for success—not just in college, but in life.” Looking for more than just a part-time job?Join a program that helps you grow, gain real-world experience, and graduate with a stand-out resume. View open student positions and apply now! 🌟 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
Unlock Your Future: Get Hired and Craft Your Career Story!
Unlock Your Future: Get Hired + Craft Your Career Story! Missed Our Virtual Event? Watch the Recording Here. If you weren’t able to join us live for Unlock Your Future: Get Hired and Craft Your Career Story on February 27th, don’t worry—the recording is now available! This powerhouse panel discussion features insights from top industry leaders who know what it takes to stand out and succeed: Jane Swift, President of Education at WorkParas Doshi, Global Client Director at LinkedInJessie Van Arman, Head of Marketing at MetaFord Coleman, Founder & CEO of Runway Moderated by Elena Agaraimova, Co-Founder of Shift and Kamina Singh, Founder of HumanUPtions. They break down the exact steps you can take right now to: Leverage internships, mentorships, and networking opportunities to gain a competitive edge Craft a compelling career story that resonates with employers Crush your next interview and get hired before graduation Don’t miss this opportunity to learn directly from those shaping the future of hiring and career development. Whether you’re a student, a recent grad, or just starting to map out your career journey—this recording is packed with practical tips you can apply today. Watch the full event now and take the next step toward your future! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kf-ZF5yOLjw Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Empowering Talent Development in the Age of Automation
Empowering Talent Development in the Age of Automation In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are not just buzzwords—they’re reshaping how organizations approach talent development. As industries evolve, so must the strategies for training, developing, and retaining a skilled workforce. AI brings unprecedented opportunities, from personalized learning journeys tailored to individual strengths and goals to predictive analytics forecasting skill gaps and optimizing workforce planning. Beyond enhancing engagement, automation eliminates administrative bottlenecks, freeing HR and talent teams to focus on what matters most—unlocking human potential. This article explores how organizations can embrace AI and automation to future-proof talent development strategies and stay competitive in a rapidly changing landscape. Personalized Learning Experiences AI enables the creation of personalized learning paths by analyzing individual employee skills, strengths, and areas for improvement. This tailored approach ensures that training is relevant and practical, enhancing employee engagement and accelerating skill acquisition. For instance, AI tools can assess a worker’s competencies to design customized development programs, optimizing the learning process. Predictive Analytics for Talent Management Leveraging AI-driven predictive analytics allows organizations to anticipate skill gaps and workforce needs proactively. AI can forecast future talent requirements by analyzing data trends, enabling strategic planning and informed decision-making. This foresight is crucial for maintaining a workforce that aligns with evolving business objectives. Automation of Administrative Tasks Automation streamlines administrative functions, reducing the burden of repetitive tasks on HR professionals. This efficiency allows HR teams to focus on strategic initiatives that drive organizational growth. For example, automating employee training processes can enhance learning experiences and improve training return on investment (ROI). Addressing the Fear of Becoming Obsolete (FOBO) As AI and automation become more prevalent, employees may experience anxiety about job displacement. To mitigate this fear, organizations should invest in continuous upskilling and reskilling programs, ensuring that employees remain valuable contributors in an AI-augmented workplace. Mandatory and strategic training initiatives can help workers adapt to technological advancements, fostering a culture of lifelong learning. Embracing AI for Future-Proof Talent Strategies Integrating AI into talent development strategies is not just a trend but a necessity for future-proofing organizations. By embracing AI, companies can create more dynamic, responsive, and effective talent development programs that align with the fast-paced changes of the modern business environment. This proactive approach ensures that the workforce remains agile, skilled, and ready to meet future challenges. In conclusion, adopting AI and automation in talent development revolutionizes how organizations approach workforce training and management. By leveraging these technologies, companies can provide personalized learning experiences, utilize predictive analytics for strategic planning, and automate administrative tasks, all of which contribute to a more efficient and future-ready workforce. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
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!
Bridging the Gap: How Education at Work is Changing Lives and Careers
Bridging the Gap: How Education at Work is Changing Lives and Careers Featured in The New York Times Transitioning from college to a meaningful career can be daunting, but Education at Work redefines the journey. By forging innovative partnerships with leading companies and universities, we empower the next generation to bridge the gap between education and opportunity, proving that investing in students isn’t just impactful—it’s essential. In a world where transitioning from college to meaningful employment often feels like an uphill battle, Education at Work is a beacon of hope and innovation. Recently highlighted in The New York Times Giving Guide 2024, our mission-driven nonprofit addresses a systemic issue: the broken link between higher education and career opportunities. The Times article underscored the challenges facing today’s graduates, describing a job market that, despite low unemployment rates, leaves many students unheard and undervalued. The issue isn’t just about jobs—it’s about trust. Employers hesitate to invest in untested candidates, and graduates are left “screaming into the void” with every unanswered application. Education at Work offers a powerful solution. Our organization builds bridges that benefit students and employers by connecting college students with paid employment at major companies like Fidelity Investments, First Financial Bank, and Intuit. Our work-based learning model doesn’t just provide a paycheck—it covers tuition costs, opens doors to career opportunities, and, as our President Jane Swift explains, fosters “purpose and passion” in young professionals. Our approach directly combats what economists call the “lemons” problem, where uncertainty prevents employers from taking risks on new talent. Through carefully structured partnerships with universities and businesses, we prove that investing in students isn’t a gamble—it’s a strategy for success. But there’s more to do. As the Times highlights, organizations like ours depend on the support of generous individuals and companies. Every donation makes a difference, helping expand these life-changing programs to more students and communities. If you believe in the power of education and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation, please consider making a gift to Education at Work through our Donations Page. Together, we can transform the job market into a system that works for everyone. Make a difference today—because every student deserves a chance to thrive. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube