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

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