Central State University's Office of Career Services preparing for a transformative fall 2024 semester

As the fall 2024 semester approaches, Central State University's Office of Career Services is gearing up to provide students with enhanced opportunities for professional development and career advancement. This semester promises a host of new initiatives, events, and partnerships designed to equip students with the skills and connections needed for success in the workforce. 

Career Readiness Week: A hands-on approach 

Kicking off the semester is the much-anticipated Career Readiness Week, scheduled for the week of Aug. 26. This year’s event aims to increase student engagement by focusing on practical skills rather than traditional lecture formats. The Office of Career Services, under the direction of interim Director Lisa Dunn, hopes to see a 25-40% increase in student participation compared to last year. Workshops will include resume building, mock interviews, and sessions with employers discussing what they seek in potential hires. 

The Office of Career Services is also organizing a session to showcase the experiences of students who interned across the United States over the summer. This platform allows them to share their stories, including challenges and successes, with their peers. Such events not only inspire other students to pursue internships but also highlight the practical application of classroom learning in real-world settings. 

Career Readiness Week aims to prepare students for the office’s other flagship fall event — the Career Expo. 

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A gateway to opportunities 

This year's Career Expo is already shaping up to be a success, with 65 employers registered — an increase of about 30% from last year, Dunn said. Both returning and new employers are eager to connect with Central State students, offering promising opportunities. Notably, many employers are looking to make offers before the winter break, allowing students to secure positions or internships early, alleviating stress as they continue their academic pursuits. 

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Innovative initiatives: Wealthy Wednesdays and more 

Wealthy Wednesday is another exciting initiative where employers will set up tables outside the cafeteria, providing students with an informal setting to network and build professional connections. This initiative encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and engage with professionals from various fields, potentially finding mentors and career advice. 

Strengthening partnerships and expanding horizons 

In the past two years, the Office of Career Services has strengthened partnerships with several notable organizations. IntelXL, a platform founded by Robert F. Smith, provides internships that include housing and transportation, and has a campus ambassador to assist with recruitment.  

The Disney on the Yard program — the company’s initiative that prepares HBCU alumni for careers — and Thurgood Marshall College Fund are also instrumental in offering unique internship opportunities at Central State. Additionally, partnerships with local entities like the city of Springfield and Greene County are being developed to provide internships and job opportunities within the community, Dunn said. 

This year’s named ambassadors, who assist with recruitment efforts on campus, include the following:  

• James Delaney, Idaho National Laboratory 
• Ryan Lee, InternXL 
• Mikayla Killings, Disney 
• Asia Kimpson, Thurgood Marshall College Fund 
• Keante Lewis, Cricket Wireless 

Supporting student success: A Marauder boutique 

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To help students present their best selves, the Office of Career Services is rebranding the Marauder Closet. This resource provides professional clothing for students, enhancing their confidence during interviews and presentations. A recent clothing drive by CGI Federal, which included donations from interns, exemplifies the supportive community surrounding this initiative. Plans are also underway to establish a gift registry, allowing contributors to support the boutique by purchasing specific items needed by students. 

Thanks to collaborative efforts, such as one with student Cameron Baldwin, the Office of Career Services can expand its offerings to reach more students. Read related article

Empowering student voices and leadership 

The office is launching several student-centered initiatives, including the formation of a Career Services Advisory Council. This council will hold both students and the office accountable, according to Dunn, ensuring professional development needs are met across all disciplines. 

Additionally, for the first time, the Office of Career Services will crown a king and queen during the fall Homecoming events. This new tradition, led by ambassadors and the advisory council, aims to recognize outstanding students and encourage broader engagement. 

A collaborative effort 

Of course, the office could not be successful without partnerships on and off campus. Central State University's Office of Career Services is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for students, faculty, and employers. By working closely with various campus departments, including Health, Counseling, and Residence Life, the office ensures that students receive comprehensive support as they prepare to enter the professional world.  

As the fall semester approaches, the Office of Career Services is poised to make a significant impact, helping students transition from academic life to thriving careers. 

For more information about how your company or organization can participate in Central State’s upcoming activities, connect with Central State University via Handshake or contact Dunn at ldunn@centralstate.edu or 937-376-6218.