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Subject:Re: a question or two From:Shelley Larock <larock -at- TYCHO -dot- ARH -dot- CDC -dot- COM> Date:Thu, 18 Aug 1994 17:56:58 GMT
Some time ago there was a discussion pretty much about this very same
topic. I remember posting something about it, but don't remember what
I did with the posting (probably the ol' circular file).
I AM a student, so preparing students for the job market is of great
interest to me. I also work at our university career center (Michigan
Tech for those who don't know). I've talked to recruiters, I've
talked to students, and I've done a lot of homework on this issue.
I think it is absolutely necessary for a college or university to
help their students prepare for the job market. Most students aren't
aware of what lies ahead after graduation and if someone doesn't
tell them they won't be successful. It goes farther then teaching
them the classes they need to get their degrees.
Stephen, you didn't say if NMSU has a career center. If you do,
I suggest you either check with them about what services they
offer or work with them to get something started.
What is your co-op/intern program like? A great number of MTU students
work at co-op/intern jobs before they graduate. It gives them a chance
to work in the real world and get some job experience. Most recruiters
I've talked to look for graduates with experience. That darn "E" word
keeps a lot of students from getting good jobs after graduation! I
would suggest trying to coordinate these types of jobs with outside
companies. The hire-back rate is also quite high.
You mentioned mock interviews, credential reviews, and hiring
coordinators. I think these are all very good ideas if you don't
already have them. At MTU we have several mock interviewing
sessions each year, frequently with actual recruiters coming
to conduct them. These events show students *exactly* what it's
going to be like when they interview, as well as providing advice
from recruiters on what they like and dislike in interviews.
MTU's career center also has updated job postings, as well as seminars on
how to write resumes and cover letters, how to do well at an interview,
and many other job search-related topics.
I hope this helps.
Shelly La Rock
larock -at- tycho -dot- arh -dot- cdc -dot- com
