Rethinking Student Employment: Key Takeaways from SXSW EDU Panel Discussion
Rethinking Student Employment Key Takeaways from SXSW EDU Panel Discussion Discover key insights from SXSW EDU’s panel on rethinking student employment and how scalable work-based learning models, like Education at Work, are reshaping the college-to-career journey. Learn how innovative partnerships are breaking barriers and preparing students for career success. At this year’s SXSW EDU, an annual event showcasing innovation in education, the conversation around work-based learning took center stage during a dynamic panel discussion titled “Learning While Earning: Rethinking Student Employment.” Moderated by Iris Palmer, Director of Community Colleges at New America, the panel featured expert insights from: Jane Swift, President of Education at Work Les O’Reilly, Director of Expert Sourcing Strategy & Partnerships, Intuit Louie Rodriguez, J.D., Vice Provost for Professional Development, Engagement, and Strategic Initiatives, University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Together, they explored how new student employment models can disrupt broken college-to-career systems and expand access to meaningful work experience for more college students. Why Work-Based Learning is Critical For many college students, working while studying is not just an option—it’s a necessity. Forty percent of full-time undergraduates are employed, working between 20 and 34 hours a week. First-generation college students face more significant challenges, often juggling longer work hours with fewer opportunities to secure career-boosting internships. Yet, internships remain a crucial stepping stone for students’ career success. Research from Strada Education Foundation and Handshake reveals that students overwhelmingly want internships, but barriers like time, finances, and accessibility prevent many from participating. Competition for these coveted opportunities is increasing– internship postings on Handshake declined by 15% between January 2023 and January 2025, making it even harder for students to gain relevant experience. Meanwhile, businesses are also struggling. Six in ten hiring managers report gaps in new grads’ skills, and many have fired Gen Z workers in the past year due to a lack of job readiness. So, how can we bridge the divide? The Education at Work Solution: A Scalable Model for Work-Based Learning During the panel discussion, Jane Swift highlighted how Education at Work (E@W) redefines student employment by connecting college students with flexible, paid roles at Fortune 500 companies. This enables them to earn a paycheck, gain durable and technical skills, and graduate with real-world work experience—all without sacrificing their education. Unlike traditional on-campus jobs or unpaid internships, E@W partners directly with universities and businesses to create work opportunities that integrate with students’ academic schedules while providing industry-aligned skills training. “This is about removing barriers for students,” Jane explained. “We need solutions that work for students who are already balancing work and school and also meet businesses’ needs for talent development.” How Can Work-Based Learning Be Scaled? How to scale work-based learning beyond pilot programs and isolated partnerships was a key topic of discussion, and the panelists explored several policy solutions at both the state and federal levels, including: ✔ Expanding federal work-study eligibility to support more off-campus, career-relevant employment opportunities✔ Incentivizing employer partnerships to increase paid work-based learning programs✔ Investing in intermediary organizations like Education at Work, which help facilitate scalable solutions for students and employers Looking Ahead The conversation at SXSW EDU emphasized that the current student employment model isn’t working for most students or businesses seeking skilled talent. New approaches, like Education at Work’s model, demonstrate that earning while learning doesn’t have to be a choice between a paycheck and a career path—it’s a way to achieve both. As the workforce continues to evolve, the need for scalable and accessible work-based learning programs has never been greater. We’d love to connect if you’re a university, employer, or policymaker looking to help students bridge the gap between education and career success. Contact Us to learn more about how Education at Work is shaping the future of student employment. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
10 Practical Tips for Effectively Brainstorming Career Pathways
10 Practical Tips for Effectively Brainstorming Career Pathways Navigating the journey from college to career can feel overwhelming for students trying to balance their studies, passions, and work experience. The pressure to “figure it all out” often leads to uncertainty about which career paths best align with their goals and skills. However, brainstorming potential career pathways doesn’t have to be daunting—it can be an exciting process of self-discovery and strategic planning. In this article, we’ll share practical tips to help students explore opportunities that connect their academic pursuits, personal interests, and work experience, paving the way for a fulfilling professional future. Here are 10 practical tips students can follow to brainstorm and discover viable career pathways: 1. Reflect on Your Interests and Passions Take time to think about what excites you. What subjects, hobbies, or activities make you feel energized? Your passions often provide clues about the types of careers that would feel meaningful and enjoyable. 2. Assess Your Strengths and Skills Identify your unique abilities—both technical and soft skills. Are you great at problem-solving, public speaking, or working with technology? Knowing your strengths helps you focus on careers where you can excel. 3. Explore How Your Major Aligns with Careers Research the typical career paths associated with your major. Talk to professors, academic advisors, or alumni to understand how others with your academic background have launched their careers. Explore alternative career options by leveraging ChatGPT with prompts like “Give me a list of 10 outside-the-box career ideas for accounting majors.” 4. Leverage Your Work and Volunteer Experience Reflect on your part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer roles. What tasks did you enjoy the most? What skills did you develop? These experiences can point to industries or roles that align with your interests and abilities. 5. Consider Lifestyle and Values Think about the type of life you envision. Do you prefer a fast-paced environment or a flexible schedule? Are you drawn to roles with a strong social impact? Matching your values with your career goals helps ensure long-term satisfaction. 6. Conduct Informational Interviews Reach out to professionals in fields you’re interested in and ask about their career journeys, challenges, and day-to-day work. This firsthand insight can help determine if a particular path resonates with you. 7. Utilize your University Career Center Most universities offer vast career resources to students and alumni, such as career and skill assessments, resume-building tools, interview preparation, and even career coaching appointments. Explore your school’s career center website or schedule a career counselor. 8. Attend Career Events and Job Fairs Take advantage of career fairs, industry conferences, and networking events. These provide opportunities to learn about different industries, meet potential employers, and discover roles you may not have considered. 9. Experiment Through Internships or Freelance Work Test the waters in different fields by taking on internships, part-time work, or freelance projects. Real-world experience can help you decide what you enjoy (and what you don’t). 10. Create a Vision and Set Goals Envision where you want to be in five or ten years. Set small, achievable goals to help you move toward that vision, whether it’s gaining new skills, exploring industries, or building a professional network. Conclusion Finding the right career path starts with self-reflection, exploration, and real-world experience. Applying the tips in this article and seeking opportunities to grow, you can confidently take steps toward a fulfilling career that aligns with your passions and goals. Education at Work is here to help you on that journey. Our student employment opportunities offer more than just a job—they provide a chance to develop the skills and connections that will set you apart in the workforce. Learn more about our current job openings and how we can support you in building your future. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
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
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 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!
Education at Work and the Path to Career Success: Alex Fusting
Alex Fusting: Education at Work and the Path to Career Success E@W Alumni Spotlight Alex Fusting’s journey exemplifies the transformative impact of Education at Work (E@W) on early talent development, mainly through our partnerships with top employers like Fidelity. As a student at Xavier University, Alex worked as a business analyst with Education at Work’s Fidelity program, gaining invaluable real-world experience in data analytics and customer service. This experience proved foundational in launching his career and helped shape his professional growth. After graduating from Xavier in 2015 with a degree in accounting, Alex transitioned seamlessly from college to a thriving career, progressing from an entry-level role to his current position as director, leading a team of client services managers at Fidelity. His team now collaborates with nonprofits, schools, and charities to administer and manage complex service plans, a responsibility that builds on the skills he developed through his work with E@W. Reflecting on his time with E@W, Alex highlights our program’s unique balance—providing a flexible schedule to prioritize academics while equipping him with critical career skills. The structured learning and customer service training at E@W gave him a head start in building skills, confidence, and industry connections that propelled him into a secure job right out of college. “Education at Work was more than just a job,” Alex says. “It was a stepping stone, helping me develop transferrable skills, confidence, and connections crucial to my career journey.” Beyond career development, E@W also fostered meaningful connections that extended into Alex’s personal life—he met his now-wife, who was also part of the E@W program. Alex’s story showcases E@W’s commitment to preparing students for future success while helping employers like Fidelity develop a reliable talent pipeline of highly skilled, work-ready graduates. Education at Work’s mission is to empower students with practical, on-the-job experience, fostering professional growth and providing employers with a steady pipeline of emerging talent. Alex’s journey from student employee to director underscores the real-world impact of our program on students’ lives and the career-ready talent we offer our partner companies. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
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