As we approach mid-semester break students are reminded that their times at Ohio Wesleyan are flying by. Life post-graduation does not have to be scary and unknown and Career Connection encourages students to reach out with their anxieties.
Leigh Mascolino, director of Career Connection, has given several tips and resources for students unsure where to start. Speaking of where to start, students may also wonder when they should start.
“I always say, ‘It’s never too early, and it’s never too late!’ We love seeing first years all the way through graduating seniors (and beyond). I do recommend getting started early,” said Mascolino.
Many students may have no idea of their options and choices post-graduation. The Career Connection office has a resource on their website that reveals 97% of Ohio Wesleyan graduates report being employed, attending graduate school, or being in the military. Unsurprisingly the most common route, 77% of students were employed. However, Mascolino points out that although it is the most common there are other options that students utilize.
“A trend is that many students are taking a gap year and then pursuing Graduate/Professional School later. They often reach out to Career Connection for support in this process after they've graduated,” said Mascolino.
For students who feel lost and disorganized and those who think about post-graduation and get overwhelmed, Career Connection has a resource that is not only free but easily accessible.
“We have a Real Life 101 Program that prepares students for life after graduation. This guide gives students a combination of career as well as "life" items to consider. We look at the full student experience as they get ready to graduate, and this program helps students with their career as well as finances, housing, etc,” said Mascolino.
Photo Credit: Paul Vernon (OWU Flickr)
This resource can be found on the Career Connection website, or through reaching out to the office. If this process is still overwhelming or daunting, Mascolino has given 5 key steps to set yourself up for success.
“ 1. Set up your Handshake Profile (or at least activate/use it) and check out our Virtual Career Center. 2. Take the OWU Strengths Assessment 3. Sign up for a Career Community Newsletter. 4. Meet 1:1 with a Career Catalyst to work on your resume, conduct a mock interview, find jobs/internships, and prep for grad school. 5. Reach out to an Alumni Partner for career mentoring & support,” said Mascolino.
Career Connection wants to see students succeed while at Ohio Wesleyan, especially after graduation. They encourage students to keep sight of their future and use the resources that Ohio Wesleyan has provided.
“Don't push career to the back-burner. We are incredibly passionate about helping students with their careers, both during OWU and beyond. Let us help you and be a resource!” Mascolino emphasized “Our central team is in Slocum 207, we have drop-in hours from 12-2:30 PM Monday - Thursday, and many of our Career Catalysts are located within departments across campus. We're excited to help and support you in your career goals!”
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