THE NETWORK
The Office of Alumni Career Services (ACS) at the college offers new and expanded services to Smeal alumni who are contemplating or engaged in career transition plans through a range of new and expanded services.
An initial strategy session with a career coach helps Smeal graduates structure a plan around self-exploration, market research, personal branding, networking, and job-seeking skills. Smeal offers graduates five one-hour coaching sessions per calendar year. Those can be in person, via telephone, or video conference.
ACS has adopted an applicant tracking tool to help alumni scan their resumes and LinkedIn profiles to beat recruitment scoring systems utilized by more than 90 percent of large companies and all Fortune 500 companies. In combination with enhanced networking, this support gives participants a competitive advantage.
“The trend has been alumni with 10 to 20 years of experience are looking to transition into a new field, industry, or job function,” says Keleigh Asbury ’96 HHD director of Smeal Alumni Career Services. “These career transitioners need resources and coaching beyond how to draft a resume and cover letter. Their needs are more aligned with project managing a job search, building a personal value proposition, and strategic networking.”