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
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
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 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
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!
Why Investing in Early Career Talent is Good Business
Why Investing in Early Career Talent is Good Business Partnering with Education at Work In a highly competitive labor market, where skilled and adaptable talent is in high demand, investing in early career talent offers employers a strategic advantage. In today’s competitive labor market, the demand for skilled, adaptable talent has never been higher. Investing in early career talent has become a powerful strategy for employers seeking to secure their future. By partnering with organizations like Education at Work, companies can access a pipeline of motivated, tech-savvy college students eager to bring fresh perspectives and energy to the workforce. This blog explores why investing in early career talent is not only beneficial for the future workforce but also an innovative, forward-thinking business decision for today’s employers. The Challenge: Attracting and Retaining Skilled Talent Employers across industries face a common challenge: attracting and retaining qualified talent. With unemployment rates for skilled workers at historic lows, competition for top talent is fierce. According to a survey from ManpowerGroup, nearly 70% of companies report talent shortages, and many need help filling key roles, particularly those requiring advanced digital skills and adaptability. This shortage often means higher costs as companies compete to attract mid-career professionals or need to increase wages to retain current employees. Additionally, younger generations of workers, such as Gen Z, have shifted workplace expectations. They seek career development, purpose-driven work, and flexibility, often leading them to pursue roles offering growth and stability over traditional career tracks. These expectations make employers need to reimagine their talent strategy to include younger talent ready to grow within the organization. The High Costs of Turnover and Recruitment Turnover is costly – and not just in terms of direct recruitment expenses. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) estimates that the average cost per hire is around $4,700, and for roles that require specialized skills, this figure can exceed $10,000. Additionally, the expenses related to lost productivity, training, and onboarding can further stretch budgets. (Fit Small Business) Gallup reports that U.S. businesses lose nearly $1 trillion yearly due to voluntary turnover. When companies can’t retain employees, they face higher recruitment costs and disruptions to their operations, which can hurt team morale and reduce productivity. By hiring students early in their careers, companies can address these pain points more effectively. With the proper onboarding and mentorship, students are often more likely to grow and stay within an organization, saving employers time and money. (Gallup) The Benefits of Hiring Student Employees Financial Returns: Hiring early career talent presents a clear financial upside. Students entering the workforce through a structured program, like those offered by Education at Work, bring relevant skills at a competitive cost. Organizations benefit from a lower cost-per-hire and have the potential to shape these young professionals to fit their company culture and needs. Employers can reduce their reliance on expensive recruiting tactics by investing in students who become long-term contributors, thus minimizing turnover costs. Enhanced Company Culture: Working with students fosters a culture of growth and mentorship within organizations. Seasoned employees become mentors, creating opportunities for knowledge-sharing and promoting leadership skills. This development culture can attract more high-potential employees and enhance team morale, as employees at all levels contribute to developing the next generation of talent. Diversity and Innovation: Student hires bring new ideas and a fresh perspective to the workplace. Partnering with organizations like Education at Work ensures that companies access a diverse range of talented young people who can contribute innovative solutions to modern challenges. This infusion of diverse perspectives helps organizations stay agile, culturally aware, and forward-thinking – essential qualities in today’s fast-paced business landscape. Why Partner with Education at Work? Education at Work specializes in connecting employers with college students who are eager to build their skills. These partnerships allow businesses to address immediate staffing needs and foster long-term workforce development. Employers can create a robust early talent pipeline by investing in student talent through a dedicated program, supporting sustainable growth and competitive advantage. When businesses invest in early career talent, they aren’t just hiring for the present – they’re building a more agile, resilient, and innovative future. Partnering with Education at Work ensures employers can access motivated, skilled students ready to contribute and grow, making it a win-win strategy for today and tomorrow. Contact us to learn more. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
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 Youtube