While the BJU campus remains empty, resources are still offered to students. The Career Services department is still extending its help. “Our main goal is to let our students know that we have the expertise and resources to assist them in strategically pursuing their careers,” said director Shawn Albert.
Individual Coaching for May Graduates
The department sent a poll to the Class of 2020 inquiring about their plans after graduation. For those who indicated a lack of confidence in immediate employment “the Career Services team has been reaching out individually … and providing them with coaching on the next steps in their job search,” explained Albert.
With the help of the team, students have updated their resumes, written cover letters and updated their LinkedIn accounts. Other students received tips on job searching and preparing for interviews. In accordance with the department’s mission, “Most (students) have been encouraged that there is someone who will take the time to help them take the next steps,” said Albert.
Resourceful Websites
Career Service’s website was recently updated to better serve the university community. Under the Student page, visitors can find a step-by-step guide for job searching and securing. The page includes sample resources for resume, cover letter and CV writing.
Students and alumni can use the website to schedule a meeting with the available career coaches. In addition, the Career Services team regularly updates the site with tips and information about job searching in the current environment.
Career Central, the University’s networking site for BJU students and alumni, was recently updated as well. The new resume building tool offers templates and tips for resume writing. A mock interview tool allows users to develop or sharpen their interviewing skills. The program offers two general interview options, in which the computer asks questions to be answered in 10 second intervals. Users can personalize the interview by adding keywords related to their possible job description. The interview recording can be analyzed by the student or sent to a career coach for review.
Supportive Community
In addition to reaching out to current students, the Career Services team contacted BJU alumni for help. Over 40 graduates, whose companies and organizations are hiring, have posted listings on Career Central’s job board.
The team also reached out to the 1,853 employers in the Career Services database, requesting hiring opportunities to post on Career Central.
While the future is unpredictable, Career Services’ help remains constant. The team will continue to be the support students need and meet their professional needs.
